Upper Canyon Rafting Trips

Whitewater Rafting

Upper Canyon Rafting

STARTING

$1,083 – $3,111

SEND UPPER CANYON TRIPS

TRIP LENGTH

Customize or Choose From 3-18 Day Trips

RAFT TYPE

Motor Raft Oar/Dory only Western Route

HIKES

9.5 mile ascent via Bright Angel at end

RAPIDS

19 major rapids rated 5 or above

RATING

5.0/5.0 from 47 Reviews

From Marble Canyon to Phantom Ranch — Classic Rapids, Hidden Side Canyons & Sunrise Magic

Upper Canyon rafting trips take you into the heart of Marble Canyon, where the Colorado River begins carving its way into some of the most breathtaking, ancient geologic layers on Earth. Beginning at Lees Ferry and ending at Phantom Ranch, the Upper Canyon delivers a powerful mix of iconic rapids, narrow limestone corridors, turquoise side streams, and golden light bouncing off canyon walls at sunrise. Guests often describe this section as the “soul” of the river — where adventure, serenity, and raw beauty meet.

Whether you choose a motor trip (3–5 days) or a human-powered oar, paddle, hybrid, or dory adventure (6–7 days), this journey offers unmatched intimacy, rewarding side hikes, and a spectacular climb out via the Bright Angel Trail.

Why the Upper Canyon Is So Special

Most rafters only do one part of the Grand Canyon in their lifetime — and many believe the Upper Canyon is the most magical. It’s the beginning of the classic Grand Canyon experience: where towering red walls rise higher with every mile, where slot canyons spill emerald water into the river, and where the canyon reveals both its quietest and most dramatic landscapes.

The Upper Canyon blends:

Classic early-season rapids — Badger, Soap Creek, House Rock, Roaring 20s
Iconic side hikes — Redwall Cavern, North Canyon, Eminence Break
Stunning geology — Navajo Sandstone, Marble Canyon limestone, the beginning of the Redwall
Turquoise water — especially at the Little Colorado River
A beautiful exit — a rewarding hike to the South Rim via the Bright Angel Trail

This first half of the Grand Canyon feels more “discoverable” — narrow, intimate, golden, glowing with morning light, and packed with must-see side canyons.

Trip Overview — What You’re Signing Up For

Upper Canyon rafting covers river mile 0 to mile 89, beginning at Lees Ferry and ending at Phantom Ranch. Every day offers a combination of whitewater, calm stretches, canyon history, geology talks from guides, optional side hikes, swimming, photography stops, and camping on river beaches.

Your days typically include:

4–6 hours of rafting
1–2 optional side hikes
Lunch on scenic sandy beaches
Evening camp setup under a sunset-painted sky
Fresh dinner prepared by your guides
Stargazing and relaxing before bed

Motor trips complete the section in 3–5 days, while oar, paddle, hybrid, and dory trips slow the pace, offering 6–7 days of immersive adventure.

Get Personal Trip Match

Upper Canyon Highlights (What You’ll Experience)

Marble Canyon — Where the Magic Begins

the river begins its descent into the greater Grand Canyon. This section is quiet, cinematic, and perfect for photography.

You’ll experience:

Echoes bouncing between canyon walls
Narrow, intimate gorge scenery
Perfect calm-water stretches for floating and taking photos

It’s peaceful, meditative, and the perfect introduction to multi-day river travel.

The Famous Upper Canyon Rapids

The Upper Canyon is home to some of the Canyon’s best early-season whitewater — exciting but rarely overwhelming.

You’ll hit:

Badger Creek Rapid (mile 8) — your warm-up
Soap Creek Rapid (mile 11)
House Rock Rapid (mile 17) — a canyon favorite
The Roaring 20s — fast, splashy fun
Hance Rapids (mile 76.5) – punchy and big

These rapids offer a perfect mix: thrill without extreme difficulty, making the Upper Canyon ideal for first-time rafters or those who want whitewater that’s fun, not intimidating.

Redwall Cavern — A Natural Cathedral

One of the most-photographed locations in the Grand Canyon, Redwall Cavern is a massive amphitheater carved naturally into the canyon wall.

Here you can:

Wander the sandy “beach” inside the cavern
Take wide-angle panoramic shots
Learn about Powell’s expeditions
Enjoy the cool shade

It’s a jaw-dropping, must-see stop on nearly every Upper Canyon trip.

The Little Colorado River (LCR)

The turquoise confluence of the Little Colorado and the Colorado River is one of the most iconic and surreal moments of any Grand Canyon rafting trip.

Depending on season and flow, you may have the chance to:

Swim or float in the warm, teal water
Explore the side canyon
Photograph the swirling blue and red contrast
Learn about the cultural importance of the LCR

This stop alone is worth the journey for many travelers.

Side Canyons & Optional Hikes

The Upper Canyon includes some of the best day-hiking opportunities in the entire canyon:

North Canyon — pools and sculpted narrows
Eminence Break — sweeping views
Nankoweap (Full Canyon only, but may appear in some Upper variations)
Limestone side slots with secret pools

These hikes vary from mellow to moderately challenging, giving every traveler something they can enjoy.

Camping Under the Stars

Upper Canyon beaches are typically broad, soft, and photogenic. At camp, you’ll help set up your tent (guides demonstrate everything), then relax as they prepare dinner.

Expect: