Grand Canyon Raft Types
Grand Canyon Rafting Itineraries by Section & Raft Type | What Each Trip Feels Like
Grand Canyon Rafting TRIPS
Typical Daily Flow, Scenery & Experience for Every Canyon Section
Once you’ve chosen how many days you’ll spend on the river, the next question is—what does each trip *actually* feel like? Advantage Grand Canyon has rafted every section of the Colorado River, from Marble Canyon’s narrow sandstone walls to the roaring whitewater of Lava Falls.
This guide walks you through what to expect day-by-day across Full, Upper, Lower, and Western Canyon trips, and how motorized, oar, paddle, hybrid, or dory rafts shape the pace and feel of your journey.
Motorized Rafts
Trips by Section
Full Canyon Trips
Route:
Lees Ferry → Diamond Creek or Pearce Ferry
Length:
6–18 Days
Raft Types:
Motor (6–8 d), Oar (12–18 d), Paddle (12–16 d), Hybrid (12–16 d), Dory (12–16 d)
Why Choose It:
Most comprehensive Grand Canyon experience
Covers all major rapids, waterfalls, and scenic zones
No hiking required
Best for travelers who want to see it all
Motorized trips often end at Whitmore Wash (helicopter out).
Non-motorized continue to Diamond Creek or Pearce Ferry.
Upper Canyon Trips
Route:
Lees Ferry → Phantom Ranch
Length:
6–8 Days
Raft Types:
Oar, Paddle, Hybrid
Why Choose It:
Shorter trip with major scenic highlights
See Marble Canyon, Redwall Cavern, and Little Colorado confluence
Ends with a hike up Bright Angel Trail (7.5+ mi)
Lower Canyon Trips
Route:
Phantom Ranch → Diamond Creek or Pearce Ferry
Length:
5–12 Days
Raft Types:
Oar, Paddle, Hybrid, Dory
Why Choose It:
Begin with a scenic hike down Bright Angel Trail
Raft through the most dramatic and remote sections
Famous rapids: Hermit, Crystal, Lava Falls
Western Canyon Trips
Route:
Whitmore Wash → Pearce Ferry
Length:
3–7 Days
Raft Types:
Motorized only
Why Choose It:
Fastest and most accessible option
Helicopter entry and exit
Ideal for short-notice bookings or family groups
Closest whitewater trip to Las Vegas
Motorized Rafts
Compare by Raft Type
Motorized Rafts (J-Rig, S-Rig, C-Rig)
Trip Length:
3–8 Days
Available On:
Full, Lower, Western
Highlights:
Fast, stable, great for groups or multigenerational travelers. Minimal physical effort — maximum mileage.
Paddle Rafts
Trip Length:
4–16 Days
Available On:
Full, Upper, Lower
Highlights:
Guest-powered teamwork. Athletic and high-energy. Front-row seats to every rapid.
Paddle Rafts
Trip Length:
4–16 Days
Available On:
Full, Upper, Lower
Highlights:
Guest-powered teamwork. Athletic and high-energy. Front-row seats to every rapid.
Oar-Powered Rafts
Trip Length:
4–18 Days
Available On:
: All sections
Highlights:
Slower, quieter pace with more side hikes and reflection.
Hybrid Rafts
Trip Length:
4–16 Days
Available On:
Full, Upper, Lower
Highlights:
Mix of oar and paddle boats. Perfect for mixed-ability groups.
Dory Boats
Trip Length:
12–16 Days
Available On:
Full, Lower
Highlights:
Handcrafted wooden boats. Fast, responsive, and steeped in river history.
Grand Canyon Trips
Not Sure What to Choose?
You’ll Get:
Personalized trip options from all 16 Grand Canyon outfitters
Real-time availability and expert, pressure-free advice
Same pricing as booking direct — no service fees
