Grand Canyon Rafting Trip Reviews

Our 7-day rafting trip down the Colorado River through the Lower part of the Grand Canyon was magnificent! The C.R.A.T.E. guides were superb in every way. The adventure was invigorating and challenging. Our group of six 50+ year olds were transported back in time, and we lived like 20 year olds for one magical week at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. The rapids, hiking and cameraderie were among the best we’ve ever experienced.
We’d do it again in a heartbeat. It was a Bucket List item for the ages. Thanks, C.R.A.T.E.!

The staff at CRATE are amazing. Prepared for everything. Rafting was only part of the experience. Fantastic hiking, amazing food, beautiful campsites, and very, very talented guides. The staff provided insight, assistance, knowledge, entertainment, and much more. The equipment was first rate which was critical as we encountered storms which only added to the experience as a result of the superior tents, cots, canopies, tarps, etc. As an example, we ate gourmet meals during thunder storms.

The heat was over 100* on the river. They did a fantastic job of helping us manage the heat and have a good time. The trip was 1/2 day and I highly recommend it. Calm waters meant sitting comfortably and moving around with ease. We stopped and swam which was great even at 47*. The guide was fun and staff was efficient and helpful.
Thanks Guys
Pam from VT

We went on the 8 day motorized Colorado River trip thru the Grand Canyon with Colorado River and Trail expeditions. I would go again with them without hesitation. It was a truly amazing trip. Our boatguides were the best, they know the river well,and always made sure we were having a great time, and kept us safe thru the whole trip. the food was fantastic, the cots we slept in were comfortable. Every day we were able to take side trips into the the side canyons, thus seeing the canyon up close and personal. Our guides were very knowledgeable not only about running the river, but were experts in explaining the geology and history of the canyon. Its hard to come out of this experience without gaining a real appreciation of the forces of nature and the sense of history for this beautiful place. This will not be my only trip with CRATE, we plan to do some of the other river trips with them in the future. Thank you CRATE, for such a wonderful time!

We signed up for the Colorado River & Trail Expeditions (CRATE) 8-day motorized raft trip based on the facts that they were a family-owned and operated business with a great reputation and reasonable prices. My husband and I and our two friends were part of a 20-person 2-raft party guided by Walker, Mindy, Ben & Ryan.
Our expectations were more than exceeded. From the moment we were met at our motel in Las Vegas to when we were delivered safely back there, we were extremely well taken care of.
The food was extraordinary, considering we were camping in primitive areas that offered no amenities (except of course stunning beauty, pristine sand bars, brilliantly starry skies, and only the sounds of the river rushing by). We were awakened with a call for the hot strong Cowboy coffee each morning, then a hot cooked breakfast running the gamut from oatmeal to pancakes, waffles, sausage, eggs each morning. When we stopped for lunch, the guides set up an attractive sandwich buffet with freshly sliced avocados, fruits, vegetables, and cold cuts. Dinner was everything from grilled salmon with salad and green beans to steak and baked potato with sour cream. And freshly baked cakes! Mindy even baked my husband a birthday cake with candles!
The equipment they provided included very comfortable cots and clean sleeping bags and self-inflating pads. It was so warm, we didn’t need the optional tents and loved sleeping under the stars.
Safety and sanitation were top priorities: we were required to wear our lifejackets on the boats at all times. We were required to wash our hands before every meal. The handwashing stations were right next to the toilet and right next to the kitchen area. The toilet facilities included one private toilet in a tent and one in a private outdoor setting. Most of us gravitated to the “View Toilet,” once we became used to the system. Let’s face it, camping in a pristine wilderness area requires that human waste be removed by each group and the fact that Walker and team took care of all that was invaluable.
We were expected to be responsible campers and instructed on removing even “micro trash” like food crumbs and scraps of paper. We were certainly not alone in this as each place we visited was as if we were the first humans there (if you didn’t notice any footprints).
The hiking trips we took up the side canyons were glorious, sometimes scary, always amazing. The less daring of us were free to stay behind or to get assistance from a guide. I hiked some ledges my friends would not believe! The rewards of standing in a pristine waterfall or exploring a cave or granary or ascending to a higher view were amazing.
We learned a lot about the geologic and biologic history of the canyon as well as the human history of exploration there. The guides often pointed out aspects of each, and also read to us from various journals and books by Canyon explorers. I think we all came away with the resolve that this Grand Canyon is one of the earth’s most meaningful and spectacular treasures and must be preserved to inspire all of us with its beauty, majesty, spiritual power, and natural history. Not to mention that the Colorado River is the lifeblood of the Southwest.
What I liked best: So many things–the fun of riding the rapids, the beauty of the scenery, the hiking, the waterfalls, the food. That we didn’t even see a house for 5 of the 8 days. That we were so cut off from civilization that I could allow my mind to completely empty of my regular life and thoughts.
What I liked least: Having to pee in the river (I’m a city girl!)
Things to bring: CRATE gives you a really good list and you can also find others online. Be sure to bring well-broken-in water sandals. Most people used the ones with covered toes, the guides all used open-toed styles, think it through as to which suits you better. You will be hiking through streams and over rocky trails. Many of us got blisters–but the guides provided us with duct tape if we needed it. You should bring a couple of pair of shoes–my second pair were waterproof trail runners that were really light and comfortable and it was great to switch off shoes.
Think about how to deal with your hair. The only bathing you can do with soap is in the Colorado River, which is cold and muddy. I opted to keep mine in pigtails and embrace mud, sand, and greasy hair. I would have had it braided into corn rolls before if I had thought it through.
Bring more than you ever think you’ll need of batteries and memory cards for your camera. Be sure to bring a waterproof camera–you will get wet!
You have enough space in your waterproof bag to take clean shirts and undies for each day if you want. Take at least 2 swimsuits and make them 2-piece.
It may not be ideal campership, but a package of wipes for swabbing your face and body parts can help you feel fresh even if you can’t imagine dunking yourself in the Colorado River.
More advice:
This is a strenuous trip even though you don’t have to row. Moving around on the raft and getting on and off it is a challenge in itself. Get in the best shape you possibly can so you can fully enjoy the hikes and the whole experience. You are expected to set up your own cot and sleeping bag and to carry it back and forth from the boat. So lift weights, hike hills, do pushups and pullups. It’s important to have confidence in your body.

We went on an 8-day Colorado River motorized raft trip and it was awesome. Every day was an adventure as we got up and on the river early so we could have maximum time for hiking side canyons. The food was great, campsites were spectacular, hikes were exhilarating, and our boatmen/guides did everything they could to make sure we had a fun but safe time.

I have not yet had the pleasure of touring with CRATE. I did book a family trip on their 8day Grand Canyon tour but for a variety of reasons was not able to take the trip. However, I cannot say enough about the thoughtful care and courtesy that was the hallmark of all my communications with each staff member I connected with.
I booked with CRATE primarily due to the stellar reviews on TA and from my limited experience this appears to be a company that is well run and offers a tremendous experience. My family and I will be back next year if circumstances will allow.

As a college professor, sometimes I just need to get-away so I joined the Colorado River & Trail Expeditions on their June 2011 Women’s Summer Solstice Retreat and had the most incredible four days (www.crateinc.com)! Everything is done for you. From the moment we left Moab, Utah to the 84 miles of river we rafted to the arrival back at the starting point, CRATE’s family of guides made this solo river guest, thoroughly engaged, athletically challenged, and cathartically moved with their professionalism, friendly natures, personable, kind and incredibly accommodating considerations for my safety, education of the area, my understanding of the ecology, geology and Native America legacy, and my overall well-being. Crate sends you a specific list of everything you need, expect, and/or want. Only piece of advice: bring an extra sweater or long underwear if you are from Florida! Highly recommend crateinc.com, especially if you want to go alone.

I came back a week ago from 2 rafting trips with CRATE. This time I went for 5 days of rafting in Desolation Canyon which were followed by 3 days of motor trip to Cataract Canyon. They have the best Crew/Guides, with so much knowledge, so nice and very helpful. Their equipment, food, safety, hikes, geological and other explanations are top of the line, They are highly recommended ! I would go rafting with them anywhere in the world.

Just finished 9 days of hiking and rafting the Green River with Colo. River and Trail Expeditions. This follows my trip of May 2010 down the Grand Canyon.
CRATE continues to be the best hiking/rafting/camping experience imaginable. DEFINITELY try to use this company if you’re rafting Alaska, the Colorado, the Green River, etc. Family run business for 40 years–good people who care and who hire only those who care. I can’t say enough about how great the experience was. Equipment, food, safety, hikes, activities(guitar, singing, etc.), geological and other explanations, etc., etc. ! Highly recommend! ***************

What a great experience! We flew into the Bar 10 Ranch (partners with CRATE for this particular expedition type), got to sleep in a covered wagon, ride horses and ATVs. A helicopter brought us down to the river at Whitmore Wash the next morning…what a beautiful way to be introduced to the Grand Canyon! We then proceeded down the river, ran some rapids, stopped for lunch, ran some more rapids, and stopped for a hike to see a beautiful waterfall. Dinner was fantastic…our family doesn’t typically get steamed veggies, mashed potatoes or peach cobbler (all of which were made by the CRATE guides) when we camp! Slept under the stars on cots right next to the river…truly a beautiful night. The next day involved a great breakfast and some more river running before ending at Pierce Ferry.
Our guides (Walker and Mindy) were EXCELLENT!!! They were very informed about the wildlife, geology, history, and pretty much anything else having to do with the Colorado River and the Grand Canyon. All of the equipment for camping was provided…cots, tents, sleeping bags, dishes, utensils, etc. All of the food was prepared for us, and was delicious! We always felt safe, relaxed (never rushed), comfortable, and informed thanks to Walker and Mindy and CRATE’s equipment.
We will DEFINITELY be back for a longer journey!!!

Spectacular scenery, wonderful weather and excellent camaraderie. What else is required for a perfect trip down the Colorado River? In a word CRATE. The folks at Colorado River and Trail Expeditions (CRATE) made this the trip of a lifetime for me. They have been doing this for 40 years. We took 14 folks on one of their 37 foot motorized rafts. We hiked into the canyon on Monday and helicoptered out on a Friday. The experience is one I will not soon forget.
The value CRATE brings to the table is difficult to describe in words. Starting with communication-many of us were in contact with the folks at CRATE by email months in advance of our trip. Our questions were answered clearly and promptly. Many of us had never been on the river, CRATE made sure we were well prepared with the clothing we needed (layers in the early Spring are a must). We had the option to ship items ahead of time if we wished but many of us brought our gear down the 9 mile Bright Angel Trail.
Whether we were on the raft, exploring a day hike, or setting up camp for the evening, the CRATE guides on our adventure were superb. Combining the perfect mix of patience and experience-never in a hurry yet always on time. We enjoyed three square meals each day and comfortable sleeping every night. They were also diligent about leaving the canyon the way we found it. After breaking camp each morning the only evidence we left behind were our footprints in the sand.
I had seen the Grand Canyon from the rim as a child, but the experience of running the river is beyond words. If you have a bucket list, this belongs on it. Someday I hope to bring my 3 adult sons back to the Canyon. When I do, you can bet it will be with CRATE.

About 10 years ago I bid at an environmental auction on a 5 day Desolation Canyon trip, thinking to take my mother. She developed Alzheimer’s Disease and I was never able to take her. I called CRATE and they voided the expiration date and there it sat past the year’s end. It was 10 years later when I could take my nephew’s family down the river and CRATE still honored the voucher for two adults! We were 11 and so had our own private trip along with another couple and their grandson. Our ages ranged from 10-75! That is not an easy age range to plan for or please, but our 3 WOMEN guides were perfect and flexible, to mention nothing of their cooking and fashion show attire in the evening. This was not my first trip. That was in 1954 with Hatch, yes Buzz Hatch, down the Yampa when Reclamation wanted to put a dam at Split Mountain. I had done Desolation two other times, once with the Wasatch Mountain Club, so it was good to see this section of the Green River again. The planning and execution was everything I expected from a first rate outfitter and we had a memorable time, especially using the rubber ducky inflatable kayaks. Plan a family trip with CRATE. It is a real vacation because you don’t have to DO anything except enjoy the experience. I was inspired to log in and write this review 6 months later by the gorgeous calendar they sent me for 2011 with different artists interpretation of Grand Canyon scenes done primarily by river runners. The calendar brought back memories of my two trips down the Grand with Ken Sleight and Dee Holladay almost 40 years ago. If you have never done a family river trip, this is a good place to start.

If you like morning coffee, you might like to try a cup that the crew of Colorado River and Trails Expeditions brews every morning at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. It’s good coffee and there is not a chance you’ll sleep through it.
If you’re thinking about going on a river trip down Arizona’s Grand Canyon, sign up with Colorado River and Trails Expeditions. I was a passenger on one of their 9 day motorized trips this last summer, 2010. It was a great time, a real vacation for myself, away from a busy work schedule; in the fine company of the other passengers, and of the guides and crew, regular and decent people who truly are good at what they do, on track to make the most of every day. Maybe because the guides and crew “work” in such a magnificent natural setting, they speak as naturalists; they are hikers, cooks, first aid and emergency responders, photographers, boaters reading and ‘running’ the Canyon’s many rapids, story tellers, educators, hale and most certainly they like to have fun. We played in waterfalls, we knew the anticipation and the thrill of going through many rapids, we hiked above the river gorge and looked toward the distant Canyon rims, we hiked to prehistoric ruins, historical inscriptions and we saw Desert Bighorn Sheep and we saw the native flora, some in wildflower display. . . All of us became friends and in conversations that usually led to talk of returning another time. You won’t need too much more than a camera, a sturdy pair of sandals, and a good sun hat.

This is the third trip I have safely completed with this organization. Did I enjoy these trips? I wouldn’t have done the second and third if I didn’t.
Some of the considerations a chap has to take on board before entrusting his life and well being to others .
1. Safety….. 10/10. Where large rapids were approached and before traversing them, the crew walked along the bank to inspect and determine the safest passage. This is necessary, I am told, as the water levels change from day to day causing a new appraisal to be warranted each trip.
2. Food….10/10. I lived better for the nine days than I do at home ( Divorce proceedings pending). Variety, freshness, ample and delicious supply undeniably more than you could ask for.
3. Accommodation…..10/10. It wasn’t the Ritz but six stars under the circumstances. All that was required was provided and greatly appreciated.
4. Sanitation……10/10. Under an uncontrolled situation and with 20 plus travelers all using the same toilet facilities things could have become very unhealthy. After nine days, there was not one incident of an upset stomach, this was due to stringent stipulations on hand washing procedures after using the toilet and again before every meal. Top Marks!! I can’t think of anything worse then being sick while traveling through the greatest place on earth.
5. Staff…….12/10. I have done a lot of traveling over the last seven years and have had trips involving group tours. The staff with this company can not be bettered. Nothing is too much of a problem as they are laid back allowing the tourist to relax and thoroughly enjoy the nine days provided.
These folk end up being life long friends whose company I enjoy immensely.
6. Extra Curricular Activities…….Being bored is taboo. A hike up to an Indian Storage site; to canyons with water falls to wash away all thought s of life outside the canyon and a tree lined oasis high up the mountain side. All make for a diverse and exciting trip.
7. Transportation……9/10. An air conditioned bus took us from Las Vegas to the River and then picked us up again to return us safely to Las Vegas. I have deducted a point here as they would not let me drive even though I begged them on several occasions.
All and all it was an experience I would do again and probably will as they have promised to build me a ramp to allow me to get on and off the raft in my wheelchair as I am getting near the need for one!!
One thing that really stands out are the friends you make on the River. I have had the real pleasure of staying twice with Greg, Nina and their daughter, Erica, since a trip I did with them five years ago. We communicate by phone often. On the trip I did this year (2010) I met a great guy that is going to take me canoeing in Canada next year. We will portage between lakes, eat fish three times a day and hope the bears do the same!!
These trips are worth every penny, if for no other reason than you get to meet fantastic fellow travelers.
The staff’s dedication to our absolute enjoyment is their determination to provide all the essentials combined with a great capacity to laugh.
I WOULD NOT CHANGE ONE THING !!!!!!
Ramon Forbes
Australia