Grand Canyon Rafting Route Comparison
Full vs. Partial Grand Canyon Rafting Trips | Upper, Lower & Western Canyon Compared
Maximize your time in the canyon—without missing a thing.
Choose the Section That Fits Your Time, Fitness & Adventure Goals
Not all Grand Canyon rafting trips cover the full 277 miles—and that’s a good thing. Advantage Grand Canyon helps you decide whether a Full, Upper, Lower, or Western Canyon trip is right for you based on your schedule, fitness, and interests.
This guide compares each section’s scenery, whitewater level, and hiking requirements so you can make an informed choice. From the hike-in challenge of the Lower Canyon to the helicopter-accessible Western section, here’s how to find the perfect stretch of river for your adventure.
Full Canyon
No hiking; see everything in one continuous journey
Upper Canyon
Marble Canyon + hike out the Bright Angel Trail
Lower Canyon
Hike in and hit the heart of the rapids and waterfalls
Western Canyon
Short, accessible motorized trips with helicopter access
Use this guide if you’re asking:
“Should I do Full Canyon, Upper, Lower, or Western?”
We’ll compare scenery, whitewater intensity, hiking logistics, and accessibility so you can pick the right stretch of river for your goals.
Planning Around Time or Style?
Not sure how many days to choose?
Want to see how each section lines up on a map?
Want to know what each trip actually feels like?
GRAND CANYON RAFTING TRIPS
Planning Around Time or Style?
Full Canyon Rafting Trips
Duration:
6–8 days (motorized) · 12–16 days (non-motorized)
Route:
Lees Ferry → Whitmore Wash / Diamond Creek / Pearce Ferry
Raft Types:
All (Motor, Oar, Paddle, Hybrid, Dory)
Hike Required:
❌ None
This is the most complete Grand Canyon rafting experience available. You’ll cover every major landmark, from Marble Canyon’s red cliffs to Lava Falls near the canyon’s western edge. Expect a mix of action, serenity, and stunning side hikes along the way.
Highlights:
Redwall Cavern · Little Colorado River · Havasu Creek · Lava Falls
Best For:
Bucket-list adventurers, photographers, and travelers who want it all.
Upper Canyon Rafting Trips
Duration:
4–7 days
Route:
Lees Ferry → Phantom Ranch (hike out)
Raft Types:
Oar, Paddle, Hybrid
Hike Required:
✅ Yes – 7.5+ miles uphill via Bright Angel Trail
Why Choose Upper Canyon:
The first act of the Grand Canyon — where the river cuts through vivid sandstone and limestone layers. You’ll explore Marble Canyon, float past Vasey’s Paradise, and visit ancient Anasazi granaries before hiking up to the South Rim.
Highlights:
Redwall Cavern · Vasey’s Paradise · Little Colorado confluence
Best For:
Fit travelers, first-timers, and those who love scenery and geology.
🪶 Tip: Mule duffel service may be available for gear transport up the trail.
Lower Canyon Rafting Trips
Duration:
5–10 days
Route:
Phantom Ranch (hike in) → Diamond Creek or Pearce Ferry
Raft Types:
Oar, Paddle, Hybrid, Dory, Motor
Hike Required:
✅ Yes – 7.5+ miles downhill into the canyon
Why Choose Lower Canyon:
Start your journey with a bucket-list hike into the canyon and then hit the biggest whitewater of the entire river. Experience world-famous rapids like Hermit, Crystal, and Lava Falls, plus side hikes to Deer Creek Falls and Havasu Creek
Highlights:
Hermit · Crystal · Lava Falls · Deer Creek Falls · Havasu Creek
Best For:
Adventure-seekers, experienced hikers, and those craving intense rapids.
Western Canyon Rafting Trips
Duration:
3–5 days
Route:
Whitmore Wash → Pearce Ferry
Raft Types:
Motorized only
Hike Required:
❌ None – helicopter access
Short, scenic, and ideal for those who want a Grand Canyon adventure without a major time commitment. Fly in by helicopter, raft through Travertine Falls and Pumpkin Springs, and relax in wide-open basalt canyons.
Highlights:
Travertine Falls · Pumpkin Springs · lava flow formations
Best For:
Families, Las Vegas visitors, and travelers short on time.
ADVANTAGE GRAND CANYON
How to Choose Your Canyon Route
| Priority | Best Choice | Why | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
See everything, no hiking |
Full Canyon |
Every landmark and rapid in one trip |
|||
|
Short trip, big views |
Upper Canyon |
Scenic geology and rewarding hike out |
|||
|
Big rapids and adventure |
Lower Canyon |
The heart of whitewater country |
|||
|
Quick, easy access |
Western Canyon |
Helicopter in/out, no hiking required |
Related Planning Pages
🗺️ Grand Canyon Rafting Trip Lengths & Map Guide – See river miles and route layout
🚣 Compare Grand Canyon Raft Types – Learn how raft design affects your ride
🥾 Bright Angel Trail Info – Hiking details, elevation, and preparation tips
🌄 Trip Itineraries by Section & Raft Type – Read what each trip feels like day-to-day
⚙️ What’s Included – Meals, camping gear, and transportation details
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some major questions related to Grand Canyon Rafting Trips asked by customers.
Or call us at 888-244-2224 for expert advice — we’ve rafted every section ourselves.