“If you’re hot and you’re standing by a river, you’re stupid!”  A favorite quote of Grand Canyon boatmen and women throughout the years.

You’re in Arizona, and summertime is here … so there is a good chance that you will be hot at some point on your Grand Canyon rafting adventure, but there is good news! The Colorado River through Grand Canyon is always chilly, no matter what the season. That is because it is coming from the bottom of Lake Powell via the base of Glen Canyon Dam. The water at the bottom of Lake Powell is always cold due to the lack of any sun warmth. Therefore, regardless of spring runoff or hot summer temperatures, the Colorado River through Grand Canyon is always around 55-65 degrees Fahrenheit.

So, if you find yourself feeling a bit too sun-kissed and warm, don’t be stupid — get wet! Take off your hat and dip it in the river and put it back on your head. Do the same with your shirt, a sarong, or a bandana. Or do like these folks and just hang out in the water!