The Colorado River Float Trip offers adventurous travelers a chance to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Southwest. Departing from Sedona, this full-day excursion combines a scenic drive, cultural exploration, and a leisurely float through the iconic Glen Canyon. With knowledgeable guides, this experience promises to delight nature enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic taste of the region’s rich heritage. What awaits those who set out on this journey may just surprise them.
Good To Know
- The Colorado River Float Trip offers a 12-hour scenic adventure covering 158 miles from Sedona to Page, featuring Glen Canyon and Navajo cultural experiences.
- The scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon showcases the natural beauty of the Southwest with stunning red rock formations and pine forests.
- The exploration of the Cameron Trading Post provides a unique opportunity to experience Navajo culture, shop for handmade crafts, and sample traditional cuisine.
- The 3.5-hour float through Glen Canyon on inflatable rafts offers breathtaking views of dramatic sandstone cliffs and the chance to spot wildlife.
- The tour is not recommended for those with mobility limitations, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, and has minimum and maximum group size requirements.
Overview of the Colorado River Float Trip
The Colorado River float trip provides a full-day excursion from Sedona, covering a distance of 158 miles (254 km) to Page.
The 12-hour adventure includes floating through the scenic Glen Canyon, viewing petroglyphs, and visiting the Cameron Trading Post.
Guests depart Sedona at 6 am, driving through Oak Creek Canyon and admiring the San Francisco Peaks along the way.
The 3.5-hour river float concludes with a picnic lunch on a beach before the opportunity to swim in the Colorado River.
Professional guides, a picnic lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour.
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Scenic Drive Through Oak Creek Canyon
As guests depart Sedona, they set out on a scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon. The route offers stunning views of the towering red rock formations and verdant pine forests.
Along the way, travelers catch glimpses of the San Francisco Peaks, the tallest mountains in Arizona. The winding road descends into the canyon, revealing a lush riparian habitat flanked by towering cliffs.
This picturesque journey sets the stage for the day’s Colorado River adventure, giving participants a taste of the natural beauty that defines this region of the Southwest.
Exploring the Cameron Trading Post
Why does the tour make a stop at the Cameron Trading Post? The Cameron Trading Post is a must-visit destination on this Colorado River float trip. It offers a unique opportunity to experience Navajo culture and shop for authentic Native American arts and crafts.
The stop includes:
- Browsing a vast selection of handmade jewelry, pottery, rugs, and other traditional items
- Learning about the history and significance of the trading post from knowledgeable staff
- Sampling traditional Navajo cuisine at the on-site restaurant
- Exploring the adjacent museum showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage
The 30-minute visit provides a fascinating cultural interlude before continuing the scenic river adventure.
Floating Through Glen Canyon
After visiting the Cameron Trading Post, participants board their inflatable rafts for the 3.5-hour float through the stunning Glen Canyon.
The Colorado River winds its way through the dramatic sandstone cliffs, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Guides provide insightful commentary on the area’s history and geology. Guests have the chance to spot wildlife like bighorn sheep and bald eagles.
The cool, invigorating river is a welcome respite from the desert heat. Stops along the way allow for exploring ancient petroglyphs and swimming.
It’s an immersive experience in the heart of the American Southwest.
Enjoying Lunch on the Beach
Midway through the float, the tour group reaches a secluded beach along the Colorado River. This beach serves as the perfect location for a picnic lunch.
The guides quickly set up a spread of sandwiches, salads, and fresh fruit. Travelers can:
- Enjoy the peaceful riverside setting
- Explore nearby petroglyphs carved into the rock
- Cool off with a dip in the invigorating river
- Recharge before the second half of the float
After a satisfying meal, the group boards the rafts and continues their journey downstream, energized and ready to take in more of the stunning Glen Canyon scenery.
Visiting the Historic Lees Ferry District
As the float continues downstream, the group makes a stop at the historic Lees Ferry District.
This is a significant point on the Colorado River, as it was once the only crossing point for hundreds of miles. The guides provide insights into the area’s history, explaining how it served as a hub for early expeditions and transportation.
Visitors can explore the remaining structures and learn about the challenges faced by those who operated the ferry service.
Though the stop is brief, it offers a glimpse into the river’s storied past and the critical role Lees Ferry played in the region’s development.
Continuing downstream, the tour group crosses the Navajo Bridge, a historic suspension bridge spanning the Colorado River.
This landmark offers:
- Panoramic views of the surrounding canyon landscape
- Interpretive signs providing historical context about the bridge’s construction
- An opportunity to walk across the bridge and peer down at the rushing river below
- Free admission, making it an accessible stop along the tour
The crossing takes just 15 minutes, providing a brief respite from the raft before the journey continues downstream towards the iconic Lee’s Ferry site.
Considerations and Recommendations
Prospective travelers should note a few key considerations when booking this Colorado River float trip. First, it is not wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility limitations should opt for a different tour. Plus, the river temperature can be quite chilly, so bringing appropriate layers is advised. Pregnant women and those with serious medical conditions are also not recommended for this adventure. To guarantee a pleasant experience, review the below table outlining important details:
| Consideration | Details |
|---|---|
| Accessibility | Not wheelchair accessible |
| Health Concerns | Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions |
| River Temperature | Can be quite cold, dress accordingly |
| Minimum Group Size | 2 people per booking |
| Maximum Group Size | 14 travelers per tour |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option for a Shorter or Longer Float Trip Duration?
The full-day Colorado River float trip lasts 12 hours, but shorter or longer duration options may be available upon request. Travelers should inquire with the tour provider about alternative itinerary lengths to better suit their preferences.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks for the Picnic Lunch?
Customers can’t bring their own food and drinks for the picnic lunch. The tour includes a provided picnic lunch, bottled water, and all necessary equipment and services. Bringing outside food or drinks is not permitted on this float trip.
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?
The minimum age requirement for this Colorado River float trip is not specified, but the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, indicating it may not be suitable for very young children.
Is There an Opportunity to Fish During the Float Trip?
The tour description doesn’t mention any fishing opportunities during the Colorado River float trip. Guests will be focused on floating, viewing petroglyphs, and visiting the Cameron Trading Post rather than fishing activities.
How Much Advance Notice Is Required to Request Child Car Seats?
Child car seats or booster seats can be requested upon booking the Colorado River float trip. The tour operator requires advanced notice to guarantee the appropriate child safety equipment is available for the tour.
The Sum Up
The Colorado River Float Trip offers a well-rounded outdoor adventure, blending natural scenery, culture, and a relaxing float through stunning landscapes. With knowledgeable guides, opportunities to spot wildlife, and visits to historic sites, this excursion provides an unforgettable day for nature lovers. Considering the breathtaking views, cultural experiences, and overall value, the Colorado River Float Trip is a highly recommended activity for those exploring the Sedona region.
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