YUMA WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
A Cool Half-Day Drift: The 5-Mile Gila Float on the Colorado River
A 3–3.5 hour, five-mile tubing float beginning at the confluence of the Gila and Colorado Rivers; this guide compiles the logistics, rules, and what to bring for the Gila Float Trip out of Yuma.
A Cool Half-Day Drift: The 5-Mile Gila Float on the Colorado River.
Adventure brief
A Cool Half-Day Drift: The 5-Mile Gila Float on the Colorado River
Get some relief from the Arizona sun on a gentle, five-mile float down the Colorado River. The Gila Float Trip is a 3–3.5 hour, family-friendly tubing outing that begins at the confluence of the Gila and offers wide, lazy-river scenery without white caps or drops.
The Gila River, flowing through southwestern New Mexico, offers an inviting escape into wilderness that feels both untouched and invigorating. Colorado River Rafting LLC hosts a standout float trip along this lesser-known gem, providing adventurers with a chance to connect with nature on a tranquil yet exhilarating journey. The river’s clear waters weave between rugged canyons and lush riparian zones, revealing a landscape rich with geological charm and vibrant flora. As you paddle downstream, the towering cliffs carved from ancient volcanic rock create natural amphitheaters, while the frequent wildlife sightings—like white-throated magpies and river otters—add a lively touch to the scenery. This float trip is perfect for those looking to unwind in nature without the technical challenge of whitewater, yet it still offers moments of excitement. Fun fact: the Gila River is vital to the local ecosystems and was designated a National Wild and Scenic River in 1974, safeguarding its pristine waters and surrounding wilderness. Colorado River Rafting LLC’s knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with insights into the area's geology and history, making each trip an educational adventure as well. The company is a trusted destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic Gila experience. Visitors often remark on the peaceful solitude and the striking contrasts of the canyon walls, which change hue throughout the day. Whether you're an outdoor newcomer or an experienced paddler, this float trip captures the essence of southwestern wilderness—accessible, scenic, and deeply rewarding. It’s a highlight for anyone eager to see New Mexico’s natural beauty from the water—an adventure not to be missed for your own outdoor itinerary.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic
Key phases and practical stops along the Gila Float Trip.
West Wet Lands Park — Check-in & Setup
The operator sets up at West Wet Lands Park (the first parking lot to the right after the roundabout when entering from 12th Ave); participants check in and leave one form of ID at this point.
Shuttle Upriver
Groups are shuttled in vans up the river to the put-in near the Gila–Colorado confluence before beginning the float.
Five-Mile Float to the Exit
The float runs five miles down the wide, lazy Colorado River; participants are asked to use a cell phone to notify the company when they reach the first bridge and are about one mile from the exit point.
There is no age limit and the operator notes that anybody can do the trip; participants must bring a cellphone to contact the company near the exit and leave one ID at check-in. Weekend seating is limited, and weekday trips require a reservation (minimum group size applies).
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Five Miles from the Gila Confluence
This is the operator's longest float trip: a five-mile drift that begins where the Gila meets the Colorado, providing a sustained, low-gradient run ideal for cooling off in summer.
A Wide, Lazy River with Scenery
The Colorado River on this stretch is described as a wide, lazy river with scenic banks — there are no white caps or elevation drops, making the trip accessible and easygoing for a broad range of participants.
Half-Day Escape from the Heat
Running three to three-and-a-half hours, the float is promoted as a welcome relief from the harsh Arizona summer and suits travelers seeking a short, water-based cooldown.
What the day feels like
What the Float Feels Like
You’ll set up at West Wet Lands Park, shuttle upriver in operator vans, then drift downstream for the full five miles — a relaxed, continuous float that lasts roughly three to three-and-a-half hours and emphasizes scenery and cooling off rather than rapids.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this float suits — and when to be cautious.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Typical outing lasts 3–3.5 hours and covers five miles. Saturdays and Sundays run from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm for Gila floats with limited seating; Monday–Friday trips are by reservation only and require a minimum group size.
Bring one cellular phone (required to communicate with the operator when you are about one mile from the exit) and one form of identification to leave at check-in. If renting a cooler tube (additional fee), you must supply your own cooler; the operator notes cooler tubes fit 64‑qt sized coolers or smaller.
Tubes must be returned by 6:00 pm; late returns may result in additional charges. The operator shuttles guests in vans from the park up to the put-in before the float.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Gila Float Trip?
The trip lasts about 3 to 3.5 hours and covers a five-mile float.
Is there an age limit?
No — the operator states there is no age limit and that the river stretch has no white caps or elevation drops, making it accessible to participants of all ages.
Where and when do I check in?
Check-in and setup are at West Wet Lands Park (the first parking lot to the right after the roundabout when entering from 12th Ave). Weekend floats run from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm; weekday trips are by reservation only and require a minimum group size.
Do I need to bring anything specific?
You must bring one cellular phone to contact Colorado River Rafting, LLC when the group reaches the first bridge (about one mile from the exit), and one form of identification to leave at check-in. If you rent a cooler tube you'll need to provide your own cooler.
Can I rent an extra tube for gear or a cooler?
Yes — an extra tube that holds a cooler (64 qt or smaller) is available for rent for an additional fee (listed as $20 plus tax); you must supply your own cooler.
What happens if I return my tube late?
Tubes must be returned by 6:00 pm. If returned after 6:00 pm, you may be charged for another float.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-10T12:12:20.369Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.