One of my favorite aspects of Grand Canyon river tours is, easily, the daily side hikes passengers get to take through the Canyon. I am constantly astonished by the truly awesome, breathtaking treasures tucked away in Grand Canyon.

You probably could guess, for example, that Arizona's tallest waterfall is in Grand Canyon. But did you know it's not the famous Havasu Falls? Cheyava Falls, hidden far up along the Canyon's North Rim, drops about 800 feet to Clear Creek, which feeds the mighty Colorado around river mile 85. Cheyava is too remote and far for passengers to reach from the river, but just knowing spectacular scenes like this lie around every bend and up every side canyon help me appreciate the breadth of Grand Canyon's trove.

Although Cheyava isn't on the rafting trip itinerary, another one of my personal favorites, Deer Creek Falls, roars just off the river at mile 137. If your group is up for it, and if time allows, you might even get to explore "The Patio" above the falls.

It seems like, every time I'm in Grand Canyon, I witness a waterfall, creek or vista more beautiful than the last. Grand Canyon Whitewater guides, some of whom have spent more than 20 seasons exploring from rim to rim, have confirmed for me that an entire lifetime in Grand Canyon cannot reveal everything it has to offer. I feel so lucky, every time I get to check off another "bucket list" Grand Canyon hike. I'm always especially grateful to be shown one of these special places by one of our guides, who lives to share his or her intimate knowledge of Grand Canyon with others.