Grand Canyon Whitewater has river rafting trips on the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon starting in April and running through October.  The schedule fills up fairly quickly in those months in the middle when normal schools are out for the summer and families, with kids, go on vacation.

But there are lots of other options, particularly if you are not involved with school schedules. Early in the season, that’s April and May, you have cooler air temperatures. Days may be in the 80s as opposed to the 100s of mid-summer. These trips enjoy the spring blooms of flowers, cacti, and trees in the Grand Canyon. Hiking off-river is not so hot and more hikes are an option since the heat of the day is not a controlling factor.  Early-season trips do have a risk of being downright chilly or cold. Sometimes a cold front can move through and cool the river corridor.

Mid-summer brings warmer air temperatures and also warm nights. The water in the Colorado River within the Grand Canyon is about 55-65 degrees Fahrenheit, give or take a few degrees. The combination of 100+ degree air and cold water is exhilarating.  Families with kids are plentiful throughout June, July, and early August. I love having kids on a river trip. They add enthusiasm and unending energy. Rafting in the Grand Canyon is one of the best family vacation destinations in the world!

August, September, and October are in the monsoon season. Rain in the western slope can eventually roll into the Grand Canyon and muddy up the water but the rapids are still the biggest around.   Rain can also be one of the most dramatic events to witness. Waterfalls that have lain dry for months, gush and cascade down the canyon walls. The rocks emanate water here, there, and everywhere. Rain in the Grand Canyon is a site to behold.  Air temperatures are still relatively warm.

Any and all of our trips offer you an incredible Grand Canyon rafting experience. Different times of the season do have different, time-specific characteristics. If you have questions, give us a call at 1-800-343-3121. We can help you to pick the one that best suits you.