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Two Week Colorado River Trip: Ultimate Guide to Grand Canyon Adventure

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A two week Colorado River trip through the Grand Canyon offers an unparalleled adventure, combining thrilling rapids, stunning landscapes, and rich geological history. This comprehensive journey covers approximately 226-277 river miles, depending on the takeout point, and provides a deep immersion into one of America’s most iconic natural wonders. From the launch at Lees Ferry to the final takeout, rafters experience a diverse range of canyon environments, challenging rapids, and unique geological formations.

What Does a Typical Two Week Colorado River Trip Itinerary Look Like?

two week colorado river trip
Image ‘File:Colorado river at mckinney roughs.jpg’ by Larry D. Moore, licensed under CC BY 4.0

A well-planned two week Colorado River trip typically follows this structure:

  1. Days 1-2: Preparation and Launch
  2. Arrive at Lees Ferry
  3. Meet guides and attend safety briefing

  4. Begin the journey down the Colorado River

  5. Days 3-5: Upper Canyon

  6. Raft through Marble Canyon
  7. Visit landmarks like Redwall Cavern and North Canyon Rapid

  8. Camp at scenic sites such as North Canyon or Nankoweap Creek

  9. Days 6-8: Granite Gorge

  10. Navigate challenging rapids like Hance and Sockdolager
  11. Explore side canyons and waterfalls

  12. Camp near Phantom Ranch or in the Granite Gorge

  13. Days 9-11: Inner Gorge

  14. Experience Class 10 rapids like Lava Falls and Crystal Rapid
  15. Visit attractions such as Elves Chasm and Deer Creek Falls

  16. Camp at Tapeats Creek or Matkatamiba Canyon

  17. Days 12-14: Lower Canyon

  18. Enjoy big, splashy wave trains in Horn Creek and Hermit Rapid
  19. Explore Havasu Creek and its side canyons

  20. Camp near Grand Wash Cliffs

  21. Days 15-16: Final Section and Takeout

  22. Complete the last stretch of the Grand Canyon
  23. Take out at Diamond Creek or Pearce Ferry

How Can You Obtain River Rafting Permits for the Colorado River?

two week colorado river trip
Image ‘File:Colorado River from the California Zephyr – June 2022 Sarah Stierch 09.jpg’ by Missvain, licensed under CC BY 4.0

Securing a permit for a two week Colorado River trip requires careful planning:

  • Application Process: Enter the Grand Canyon National Park Service Rafting Lottery held in February for the following year
  • Costs:
  • Lottery entry: Free
  • Permit fee if won: $200 (non-refundable)
  • Per person per day fee: $30
  • Regulations:
  • Strict rules on group size and camping locations
  • Commercial trips have specific guidelines set by the National Park Service

What Amenities Are Available at Grand Canyon Camping Sites?

Camping during a two week Colorado River trip is a rustic experience:

Amenity Availability
Campsite Capacity Varies, typically 12-16 people
Restrooms Primitive (portable toilets or designated areas)
Water Sources River or side streams (must be filtered)
Proximity to Trails Often near trailheads for optional hikes

What Types of Guided River Tours Are Available for a Two Week Colorado River Trip?

Several options cater to different preferences and skill levels:

  1. Motorized Raft Trips
  2. Duration: 7-8 days

  3. Faster travel, more family-friendly

  4. Oar-Powered Raft Trips

  5. Duration: 12-18 days

  6. More immersive experience

  7. Paddle Raft Trips

  8. Duration: 12-18 days

  9. Passengers actively paddle

  10. Dory Trips

  11. Duration: 12-18 days

  12. Smaller, more maneuverable boats

  13. Average Group Size: 12-16 passengers plus guides

  14. Cost Range: $3,210 to $5,630 per person for a 12-18 day trip

How Should You Prepare for a Two Week Colorado River Trip?

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful journey:

  1. Physical Fitness:
  2. Engage in regular cardio and strength training

  3. Practice swimming and hiking

  4. Gear Checklist:

  5. Quick-dry clothing
  6. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
  7. Waterproof bags for personal items

  8. Sleeping bag and pad

  9. Mental Preparation:

  10. Research the Grand Canyon’s history and geology

  11. Familiarize yourself with basic rafting techniques

  12. Medical Considerations:

  13. Consult with your doctor, especially if you have pre-existing conditions
  14. Pack necessary medications in waterproof containers

What Are the Highlights of a Two Week Colorado River Trip?

A two week journey offers numerous unforgettable experiences:

  1. Geological Wonders:
  2. Witness the Grand Canyon’s layered rock formations

  3. Explore side canyons and hidden grottos

  4. Thrilling Rapids:

  5. Navigate famous rapids like Lava Falls and Crystal Rapid

  6. Experience the power of the Colorado River firsthand

  7. Cultural Sites:

  8. Visit ancient Native American ruins

  9. Learn about the area’s rich cultural history

  10. Natural Beauty:

  11. Observe diverse flora and fauna

  12. Enjoy spectacular stargazing opportunities

  13. Personal Growth:

  14. Develop teamwork skills
  15. Challenge yourself physically and mentally

A two week Colorado River trip through the Grand Canyon is a transformative experience that combines adventure, education, and natural beauty. Whether you’re an experienced rafter or a first-timer, this journey offers a unique perspective on one of America’s most iconic landscapes.

References:
1. The Grand Canyon – A Two Week Expedition
2. Grand Canyon Rafting (1-day to 18-days)
3. 12-18 Day Colorado River Rafting Trips

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