PAGE RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Oar-Powered Through a Living Canyon: A Multi-Day Descent of the Upper Grand
A 6.5-day oar-powered rafting expedition from Lees Ferry to Phantom Ranch that covers 88 river miles and runs 28 named rapids—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Oar-Powered Through a Living Canyon: A Multi-Day Descent of the Upper Grand.
On Wilderness River Adventures’ Upper oar-powered trip you move between violent whitewater and long, warm eddies beneath canyon walls that climb more than 4,500 feet—passing waterfalls, ancient Indian ruins and a surprising density of wildlife from canyon wrens to bighorn sheep.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Towering Walls and Hidden Ruins
The trip threads the Colorado between canyon cliffs that soar thousands of feet, with waterfalls and Indian ruins revealed along the riverbanks—classic Grand Canyon scenery throughout the run.
A Mix of Thrill and Serenity
Expect a dramatic alternation of exhilarating rapids and stretches of calm water where the oar-powered rigs let you soak in the sun and the canyon’s scale.
Birdsong and Bighorn
Wildlife sightings—from small canyon wrens to bighorn sheep—are a recurring part of the trip, adding natural-history texture to the whitewater experience.
What the day feels like
What the 6.5-Day Descent Feels Like
This oar-powered Grand Canyon expedition alternates full-on rapids with long, sunny stretches of smooth water; over the course of the trip you’ll move from high-adrenaline whitewater to quiet moments aboard the rafts, all while passing waterfalls, ruins and steep canyon walls.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Meet at 199 S. Kaibab Rd, Page, Arizona 86040 (operator meeting location).
The voyage covers 88 river miles and runs 28 rapids, starting at Lees Ferry and ending at Phantom Ranch.
If hiking to the Colorado River, you must pack your own food and drink—recommendations include a large sandwich, power bars, crackers, cheese and oranges—and bring two quarts of electrolyte supplement drink.
Hiking to the river requires self-supported food; hiking from the river back up the canyon you will have food and drink provided by Wilderness River Adventures. Note: no duffel or mule service is available into the canyon.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The trip duration is 6.5 days.
Where is the meeting location?
The operator meeting location is 199 S. Kaibab Rd, Page, Arizona 86040.
Does the trip include a hike to the river?
Yes—this trip begins with a guided hike down Bright Angel Trail to the Colorado River (approximately ten miles with about a 5,000-foot elevation change); participants should be experienced hikers in excellent physical condition and must pack their own food and drink for that hike.
How many rapids and how far is the run?
The expedition covers 88 river miles and includes 28 rapids.
Is mule or duffel service available into the canyon?
No—Wilderness River Adventures does not accommodate duffel or mule service into the canyon.