Frequently Asked Questions About Our Grand Canyon Expeditions
Why GCE?
What kind of trips do you offer?
We offer 8 and 9-day motorized rafting trips through the Grand Canyon. We also offer 14- and 16-day dory trips through the Grand Canyon. All of our expeditions run the entire length of the Grand Canyon from Lees Ferry, AZ to Pearce Ferry, AZ.
Why are your rafting trips 8, 9, 14, or 16 days? Isn’t it possible to go through faster?
We take the time to make sure you have the best experience possible. We refuse to rush you. Our Grand Canyon raft tours become unforgettable trips for every participant. Only when you have looked up at its rim towering a mile above you, explored its many side canyons, ridden the Colorado River’s exciting rapids, and camped on the river’s beaches can you truly appreciate the Grand Canyon. Time never seems sufficient for all there is to see and do on a Grand Canyon river rafting excursion.
The 14- and 16-day rowing trips consist of several dories. What is a dory?
A dory is a hard-hulled boat approximately 18 feet long, carrying a maximum of 4 guests and one guide. The guide sits in the middle of the boat and uses oars to maneuver the boat. The dories provide an extremely graceful ride through the canyon.
Why are we only allowed one trip a year?
This is a National Park Service regulation. Due to limited space on river trips, the National Park Service has restricted guests to one trip per year. Because of this, our guests can only go on one trip per year through the canyon.
How many people are on a trip?
The majority of our motorized trips are two-boat trips. Each boat carries 14 guests and two crew members. That is 28 guests total and four crew. Some of our motorized trips are one-boat trips and will take 14 guests and 2-3 crew members. Our dory trips take four guests and one guide per boat with five dories plus support boat(s). Our dory trips have 20 guests and seven crew.
What equipment does GCE provide?
Cots, camp chairs, tents, sleeping bags, self-inflatable sleeping pads (Paco Pads), ground tarp, waterproof gear bag, waterproof camera case (or bag for our dory trips), and a waterproof sleep kit bag.
Is a GCE River Trip a good fit for me?
How strenuous is a Grand Canyon river trip?
A Colorado River trip through the Grand Canyon is an adventure! Most people will be more active on the river than they are at home. Carrying your camping gear to camp, walking uphill on sandy beaches, and getting on and off the boat can be strenuous. You may wish to have a medical check-up before your trip to ensure that you are well enough to go on an adventure like this. We recommend preparing in advance for your trip with a pre-conditioning exercise routine. This will help to make your camping experience more enjoyable. Although all hikes are optional, some pre-trip conditioning may allow you to visit a spectacular waterfall or vista.
For more information, you can find our Essential Eligibility Criteria by clicking here.
I've never been camping before. Should I come on a trip?
It is not uncommon for some of our guests to have never slept outdoors. If your impression of camping is a damp and “buggy” experience, you are in for a pleasant surprise. Although tents are available, most of our guests prefer sleeping out under the stars.
Is it a problem if I cannot swim?
It is not a problem if you cannot swim. We supply U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices (PFDs). Each person is required to wear one at all times when aboard one of our boats. We do stop at side canyons with swimming spots. You may find that you will enjoy them more if you take some time to learn to swim before your trip.
I get seasick easily. Is this a problem on a river trip?
You are extremely unlikely to experience any kind of motion sickness while aboard our rafts. This has not been a problem with any of our guests. The up-and-down action of the boat while going through rapids is fun and lasts for just a few minutes at a time. On calmer water, the motions most people feel are relaxing.
Is there an age requirement for your trips?
We recommend our motorized expeditions for people 8 years of age and older and our dory expeditions for people 12 years of age or older. If your children have camping experience, enjoy the outdoor life, feel at home around water, and adjust easily to being with an adult group, they will most likely enjoy the trip with you. We leave the final decision to the parents. We require that adults accompany youth under 18 on all of our Grand Canyon rafting excursions.
We do not have an upper age limit but we recommend older guests consult with their physician and talk to our office if they are not sure that one of our trips is a good fit for them.
How likely is it that I will fall off the boat?
It is extremely rare for our guests to become an involuntary swimmer off of one of our motorized rafts. In our experience, this generally happens when guests are not holding on well (i.e., they are trying to take pictures or pretend that they are on a bucking bronco). It is more likely (but still rare) that guests will become involuntary swimmers on one of our dory trips. Please keep this in mind as you are choosing which type of trip to book.
I am nervous about the rapids. Should I still go?
Many of our guests are anxious about the rapids prior to their trip. If you are nervous about the rafts, one of our motorized trips may be the best fit for you. On our motorized rafts we recommend that those who are feeling especially anxious sit in the center rear of the boat at first. Many of our guests who are anxious about the rapids find that they really enjoy them and end up sitting in the front of the raft for them!
Are there opportunities for people with disabilities?
We have accommodated people with disabilities in the past. Please contact our office to talk about your limitations and to see if one of our trips is a good fit for you. If one of our standard trips is not a good fit for you there are trips that are operated occasionally that can accommodate many different limitations.
I am on a special diet. Will it be possible to stay on it while I'm on the river?
We make an active effort to accommodate dietary needs. If you have dietary restrictions, please let the GCE office know before your trip. We will work with you and do our best to find alternatives for you to eat while on your trip. If there is something we can’t get or if there is something you would like to bring, we can store it for you during your trip. If you have a food allergy, we do our best to accommodate your needs but please keep in mind that we cannot guarantee there will not be cross-contamination.
Your Trip Logistics: From Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon
Getting There
Which month is best for a Grand Canyon white water adventure?
We operate most of our trips during June, July and August when many families plan their vacations. During the summer, average daytime temperatures range from 90-106 degrees, with an average of a 30 degree drop at night. Temperatures can reach 115 in the inner canyon during the hottest times of the year. However, the lack of humidity, coupled with frequent swimming, wading, or splashing, helps keep people comfortable. Temperatures are milder in the spring and fall and it can be very pleasant to be in the canyon. Although not common, it can be cool and rainy in spring. Many wildflowers are in bloom in April and May. In the fall temperatures are milder and the canyon seems to glow in the fall light.
When is the river muddy?
During the monsoon season (generally late July through August) tributaries and side canyons can bring sediment from the rain into the river. This causes the river to run muddy. The river can run muddy anytime that there has been rain in the area. Rain can also cause rim falls, which are spectacular waterfalls off the tops of the canyons.
Is there a time of year when the rapids are better?
The rapids change depending on the water levels of the river. Some are more fun at higher water and some are more fun at lower water. Water levels are controlled by releases from Glen Canyon Dam. Whatever time of year you choose to go, you are sure to have fun!
How tough are the hikes?
The difficulty levels of each hike will vary and some are easier than others. Some hikes include short walks to shaded areas, while others take some rock scrambling and a little bit of climbing. The guides will let everyone know what to expect when they stop for a hike and they will also let everyone know if they suggest a certain type of footwear for a hike. Hikes are not mandatory and some guests prefer to stay back near the boats and read a good book or take a nap!
What time of year
should I go?
Which month is best for a Grand Canyon white water adventure?
We operate most of our trips during June, July and August when many families plan their vacations. During the summer, average daytime temperatures range from 90-106 degrees, with an average of a 30 degree drop at night. Temperatures can reach 115 in the inner canyon during the hottest times of the year. However, the lack of humidity, coupled with frequent swimming, wading, or splashing, helps keep people comfortable. Temperatures are milder in the spring and fall and it can be very pleasant to be in the canyon. Although not common, it can be cool and rainy in spring. Many wildflowers are in bloom in April and May. In the fall temperatures are milder and the canyon seems to glow in the fall light.
When is the river muddy?
During the monsoon season (generally late July through August) tributaries and side canyons can bring sediment from the rain into the river. This causes the river to run muddy. The river can run muddy anytime that there has been rain in the area. Rain can also cause rim falls, which are spectacular waterfalls off the tops of the canyons.
Is there a time of year when the rapids are better?
The rapids change depending on the water levels of the river. Some are more fun at higher water and some are more fun at lower water. Water levels are controlled by releases from Glen Canyon Dam. Whatever time of year you choose to go, you are sure to have fun!
How tough are the hikes?
The difficulty levels of each hike will vary and some are easier than others. Some hikes include short walks to shaded areas, while others take some rock scrambling and a little bit of climbing. The guides will let everyone know what to expect when they stop for a hike and they will also let everyone know if they suggest a certain type of footwear for a hike. Hikes are not mandatory and some guests prefer to stay back near the boats and read a good book or take a nap!
Booking FAQs
The trip I want is booked. Do you have a waitlist?
Yes, waitlists are available for full trips. To be put on a waitlist, please call our office and we will be happy to take your information in the event of a cancellation.
Can you hold reservations without a deposit?
Yes, we can hold a reservation for 10 days without a deposit. At the end of the 10 days, if a deposit hasn’t been made, it will automatically expire. If you want the trip you need to call the office to make the deposit. To confirm your trip, we require a deposit of $500.00 per person.
When is the final payment due?
The final payment is due 120 days prior to your trip date. After this time, we do not offer refunds.
Is it possible to charter a river trip?
We arrange private Grand Canyon rafting trips for many different groups and organizations. Special charter rates are available.
I booked a trip! Now what?
After you book one of our trips you will start receiving emails from us with more information. You will receive a confirmation with access to your reservation. When you access your reservation, you will be able to enter more information about you and your traveling companions, including any dietary or medical restrictions.
You will also need to electronically sign our Liability Waiver form. Each guest will need to sign their own form. Guests under 18 will need to have a parent or legal guardian sign for them. You will also receive a document that has all the details of your trip and a packing list. Please keep an out for emails from us closer to your trip. We will send a reminder when your final payment is due and information on hotel room reservations for your trip.
What if I have to cancel my trip?
If you need to cancel your trip more than 120 days prior to the trip start date we will refund your payment less a $100 cancellation fee per reservation. Within 120 days prior to the trip there are no refunds. Within 120 days of the trip date, we generally do not have time to fill the space, yet, we have already spent considerable time, money and energy preparing for your trip. Because of our short season and a very limited number of available seats, we cannot afford the financial loss that cancellations cause.
Should I purchase Travel Insurance?
We strongly recommend that our guests purchase travel insurance. Many policies cover personal property and personal injury. Although we spare no effort to assure a safe trip, our expeditions are not without some risks. In case of illness or accident our crews will provide first aid and arrange evacuation from the canyon if it is necessary. We cannot assume responsibility for injury to guests or damage of personal belongings, or for time or expenses incurred from the negligence of others. The cost of specialized means of evacuation, such as helicopters, and medical care beyond first aid are the financial responsibility of the ill or injured person.
Policies can be purchased to cover the length of your vacation and include personal accident coverage and/ or luggage and personal effects. In addition, check with your insurance agent to see if your homeowner’s policy covers loss or damage to your camera, luggage, etc. These are a few agencies that provide travel insurance:
Tripmate, Inc.- Trip Assure: https://www.tripmate.com/main/
Automobile Association of America (AAA): https://mwg.aaa.com/
Allianz Travel Insurance: https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com/
You can also input your trip information and find travel insurance that is perfect for here: https://www.squaremouth.com/
Have you delayed or canceled any of your previous trips?
We have seldom cancelled, postponed or delayed one of our scheduled Grand Canyon river rafting excursions. However, due to weather conditions, water fluctuations, insufficient reservations, or other factors beyond our control we cannot be responsible for the delay, cancellation, or rescheduling of any trip. In the event we cancel or reschedule your trip, we will refund your money or apply it toward another trip, whichever you prefer.
Is a National Parks Pass required?
No, a park pass is not required. Your park entrance fees are part of the cost of the trip. We ask for this number for record keeping reasons.
Orientation and Las Vegas FAQs
What hotel does GCE use in Las Vegas?
The Residence Inn by Marriott located at 370 Hughes Center Drive.
What nights are included at the hotel?
The night before and the night of your return are included at no extra cost. Grand Canyon Expeditions will book and pay for the rooms for you (some restrictions apply for guests who book through travel agents)
Do we have to share hotel rooms?
No. You are not required to share a room with any other guest. If you are part of a large group, you can share rooms or you can have your own room. The only restriction we have is that the Residence Inn does not allow children under 18 to be roomed alone.
Is there a hotel shuttle from the airport?
No, there is not. You'll have to get a taxi or a rideshare service from the airport to the hotel. It is only 2.8 miles from the airport to the hotel, or about a 7-minute drive.
Can we store luggage at the hotel? What about if we are not staying there?
Yes! Luggage storage is $20 per room for the duration of your trip. If you aren't staying at the hotel, just let the front desk know that you are with Grand Canyon Expeditions and they will set up an account for you to be able to store your luggage.
When and where is the orientation meeting?
The orientation meeting is at 8 PM Pacific Time. It is in the Western meeting room off the lobby of the hotel.
What if I miss my orientation meeting?
If you are traveling with someone who attends the meeting, they can pick up your gear for you. If not, our Las Vegas representative will leave your gear and instructions at the front desk for you to pick up when you check-in.
Can we buy items for the trip at the meeting?
Yes! There will be items available at the orientation meeting you can purchase. We've curated a list of items we think will benefit our guests the most and these items will be for sale. You can also find them online by clicking here.
There is also a stop at a Walmart on the way to Lee's Ferry the first morning of the trip where last-minute items can also be purchased.
Is there a place to purchase drinks in Las Vegas?
Yes- there are many locations in Las Vegas near the hotel where you can purchase drinks for your trip. There are a couple within walking distance of the hotel. Our Las Vegas representative or the front desk of the hotel can give you directions. There are also large stores with a big variety of beverages within a short drive of the hotel. The bus will also stop at a Walmart on the way to Lee’s Ferry where you can purchase soda, beer and hard seltzer. The Walmart does not carry wine or spirits.
Please drink responsibly. The drinking age in Arizona is 21.
Is there breakfast available on the first morning of the trip?
Yes, a boxed breakfast is available at 4:15 AM in the hotel. We ask that all guests be in the lobby by 4:30 AM as the bus leaves promptly at 5:00 AM. There will be water available on the way to Lee’s Ferry and a couple of stops where snacks can be purchased.
How do we get from Vegas to Lee's Ferry at the start of the trip? What about at the end?
We provide a charter bus the morning of your trip to take you from Las Vegas to Lee’s Ferry. It is about a 5-hour drive with a couple of stops along the way. On the last day of your trip, you will meet a jet boat on the river, which will take you to the last stretch to Pearce Ferry. At Pearce Ferry you will get back on a charter bus and head back to Las Vegas. It is about a 3-hour bus ride with one stop.
Packing FAQs
I plan on bringing expensive camera equipment - how can I protect it?
We provide you with a mostly waterproof box for day use. If you have more expensive equipment, we recommend bringing a Pelican Case. They are suited for the environment and come in many sizes. They can be found at many outdoor retail stores or at www.pelican.com.
Do I really need rain gear?
Yes! We strongly recommend rain gear no matter the time of year or the weather forecast for your trip. Even in the hottest parts of the summer people can get chilly running rapids in the early or late part of the day when the canyon is shady. Rain gear is recommended as much for the rapids as for inclement weather.
Can I bring my own PFD (personal flotation device)?
No, the National Park Service requires our guests to wear a US Coast Guard-approved PFD supplied by GCE.
Can I bring a fishing pole?
Yes, you can! We suggest collapsible rods with a hard case so that it can easily be stored when not in use. Rainbow Trout are plentiful in the Colorado River and you will find ample time for angling. We recommend purchasing a fishing license prior to traveling for your trip. Licenses can be purchased from Arizona Game and Fish at: at https://www.azgfd.com/license/
What drinks are provided on the trip?
We provide an assortment of Coke products including Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, root beer, lemonade, and seltzer waters. We also provide an assortment of juices. Coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are available in the mornings. We are not legally allowed to supply alcoholic beverages but you can bring your own.
What should I know about bringing my own beverages?
You can bring your own beverages. We ask that you bring aluminum cans or plastic bottles, please no glass containers. Please bring beer in cans, wine in boxes or cans, and spirits in plastic bottles for the trip. There is no limit to the amount of drinks you can bring. Keep in mind that there is no way to resupply during the trip. We do ask that you drink responsibly while on your trip.
Can drinks be kept cold?
Yes! We have mesh bags to put your drinks in. These bags are clipped to the boat and keep the drinks cool using the river. We recommend these bags for canned drinks only.
Is smoking allowed on a trip?
Yes, with restrictions. Smoking is not allowed while on board any of our boats. Please smoke downwind and away from the rest of the group. Butts must be properly disposed of. Be prepared to follow crew instructions on appropriate locations to smoke. Please note that although Marijuana is legal in Arizona and Nevada, Grand Canyon National Park is federal land and Marijuana use is illegal.
Can I bring a CPAP machine?
Yes! Bring it ready to plug into the wall and we will provide lithium batteries for you each night. These batteries cannot support CPAP machines with humidifiers so you will need to bring a machine without one. Please let our office know if you are planning to bring your CPAP machine so that we can send the batteries on your trip. We have a limit on how many CPAP machines we can support on each trip so let us know early if you are bringing yours. Please keep in mind that although we have had good success with our batteries, if they fail or cannot support your machine, we do not have another way to run your CPAP. In the event of a battery or machine failure you should be prepared to complete the trip without the use of your CPAP machine.
Can I bring a small backpack?
Yes! We recommend bringing one for hiking. This keeps your hands free for assisting you on the hike. It is a good place to carry a camera, sunscreen, water bottle and a packed lunch if the hike is during lunch time. Bring a carabiner so you can clip it to the boat when not in use.
Can I bring a musical instrument?
Yes - we welcome them on trips. We recommend a hard-shelled case to help protect it. Please contact our office to let us know if you are bringing an instrument and we can provide an extra dry bag to store it in. We have dry bags large enough to store a guitar.
Are pillows provided?
No, but you are welcome to bring yours along. We find that inflatable airline pillows or travel pillows pack easily and work best.
Is toilet paper provided?
Yes. You may want to bring along some tissue for other uses but all toilet tissue for the bathroom is provided.
Best soap and shampoo?
Please bring a biodegradable soap and shampoo for your trip. We recommend Dr. Bonners and sell it in Las Vegas if you would prefer not to fly with liquids.
Do I need bug spray?
Although bugs are generally not an issue in the canyon it is a good idea to pack a small amount just in case.
Should I bring something to charge batteries?
If you would like a way to charge your phone or camera batteries you will need to bring it. We recommend a battery pack or a solar charger. You can purchase these items at Amazon or at www.goalzero.com.
Trip FAQs
Where can I find the weather for my trip?
For the upper part of the trip: Marble Canyon, AZ- 86036
For the middle part of the trip: Phantom Ranch
For the lower part of the trip: Meadview, AZ- 86444
Are there set hikes on the trip?
No. There are so many hiking opportunities in the Grand Canyon that one trip can’t come close to doing all of them. The guides decide which hikes to stop at on each trip. They make their decisions based on many factors including weather, group ability and preferences, timing and other trips in the area.
Is there assigned seating on the boat?
No. You will choose which boat and where to sit each day. We recommend switching boats and sitting in different places on the boat for your comfort and to get to know everyone on the trip.
Will I have cell phone reception on the trip?
No. There is no cell service at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Once you start down the river you will be away from it all. This is one of the best parts of the trip! If you would like to give your family and friends a number to contact, our office (1-800-544-2691) is the best number. We will do our best to get any messages to you but generally, the soonest we can is on the jet boat to Pearce Ferry.
How and when do we tip the guides?
The guides can take checks or cash. It is best to give it to the lead guide on the last night of the trip. It is evenly split among the crew.
Can we get a list of everyone on the trip?
Due to privacy reasons, we do not share this information. However, many of our trips share their information with each other to keep in touch after their trip. Strangers have become life-long friends after meeting on our trips.
Can you celebrate a birthday on a trip?
Yes! Our guides have mastered the art of Dutch oven baking. If you or a companion are celebrating a special occasion on your trip, please let us know. The guides can plan accordingly and bring candles for the celebration!
What hotel does GCE use in Las Vegas?
The Residence Inn by Marriott located at 370 Hughes Center Drive.
What nights are included at the hotel?
The night before and the night of your return are included at no extra cost. Grand Canyon Expeditions will book and pay for the rooms for you (some restrictions apply for guests who book through travel agents)
Do we have to share hotel rooms?
No. You are not required to share a room with any other guest. If you are part of a large group, you can share rooms or you can have your own room. The only restriction we have is that the Residence Inn does not allow children under 18 to be roomed alone.
Is there a hotel shuttle from the airport?
No, there is not. You'll have to get a taxi or a rideshare service from the airport to the hotel. It is only 2.8 miles from the airport to the hotel, or about a 7-minute drive.
Can we store luggage at the hotel? What about if we are not staying there?
Yes! Luggage storage is $20 per room for the duration of your trip. If you aren't staying at the hotel, just let the front desk know that you are with Grand Canyon Expeditions and they will set up an account for you to be able to store your luggage.
When and where is the orientation meeting?
The orientation meeting is at 8 PM Pacific Time. It is in the Western meeting room off the lobby of the hotel.
What if I miss my orientation meeting?
If you are traveling with someone who attends the meeting, they can pick up your gear for you. If not, our Las Vegas representative will leave your gear and instructions at the front desk for you to pick up when you check-in.
Can we buy items for the trip at the meeting?
Yes! There will be items available at the orientation meeting you can purchase. We've curated a list of items we think will benefit our guests the most and these items will be for sale. You can also find them online by clicking here.
There is also a stop at a Wal-Mart on the way to Lee's Ferry the first morning of the trip where last-minute items can also be purchased.
Is there a place to purchase drinks in Las Vegas?
Yes- there are many locations in Las Vegas near the hotel where you can purchase drinks for your tip. There are a couple within walking distance of the hotel. Our Las Vegas representative or the front desk of the hotel can give you directions. There are also large stores with a big variety of beverages within a short drive of the hotel. The bus will also stop at a Wal-Mart on the way to Lee’s Ferry where you can purchase soda, beer and hard seltzer. The Wal-Mart does not carry wine or spirits.
Is there breakfast available on the first morning of the trip?
Yes, there is breakfast in the hotel available at 4:15 AM. We ask that all guests be in the lobby by 4:30 AM as the bus leaves promptly at 5:00 AM. There will be water available on the way to Lee’s Ferry and a couple of stops where snacks can be purchased.
How do we get from Vegas to Lee's Ferry at the start of the trip? What about at the end?
We provide a charter bus the morning of your trip to take you from Las Vegas to Lee’s Ferry. It is about a 5-hour drive with a couple of stops along the way. On the last day of your trip, you will meet a jet boat on the river, which will take you to the last stretch to Pearce Ferry. At Pearce Ferry you will get back on a charter bus and head back to Las Vegas. It is about a 3-hour bus ride with one stop.
Emergency Situations FAQs
What happens if there is an emergency on the river?
Our guides are all certified wilderness first responders (WFR) and carry extensive first aid kits on every trip. They will work within their training to stabilize any injured or ill trip participants. In the event of an emergency, each trip has a satellite phone and a satellite messaging device to contact Grand Canyon National Park and our office to begin the evacuation process. Once an ill/ or injured person is evacuated from the canyon our office will help with logistics and try to make it as smooth as possible for that person to get treatment and get back to Vegas or back home.
What happens if there is an emergency at home while I am on the river?
Although our guides can call out in case of an emergency on the river, they do not receive incoming messages. Once you are on the river there is no contact with our office unless there is an emergency on the trip. Since emergencies on trips are rare, the earliest we can get a message to you is usually when you get on the jet boat on the last day of the trip. The best course of action is to give your loved ones the office number (1-800-544-2691) and we will get the message to you as soon as we are able.
Bathroom FAQs
What are the bathroom facilities like?
During the day, when you need to urinate, you will do so directly in the river. If you need to have a bowel movement talk to a crew member and they will provide you with a backpacking toilet. We make stops frequently throughout the day, but don’t be shy about approaching your guide if the need arises.
At night we set up a portable toilet. It is a toilet seat on a holding tank. Our system allows you to use the bathroom in privacy. There is a hand-washing system for washing your hands after using the toilet. The toilet is one of the first things to be set up when we arrive at camp in the evening and the last thing to get broken down and put away in the morning. Many guests comment on the spectacular views from the toilet!
Your guides will go into more detailed information about the toilet system at the camp orientation on the first day of your trip.
Wait - we pee in the river during the day?
Yes. This may seem unusual to some of our guests but because of the arid environment and minimal rain, peeing in the river keeps the beaches clean. For people who stand to pee, this is easily accomplished by aiming in the water from the edge of the river.
For those that sit to pee they either need to squat in the river or use a personal urination device. These devices allow people to stand and pee while fully clothed. We recommend the pStyle, available at https://www.thepstyle.com. There are many other brands of these devices and they can be purchased online or at outdoor retail stores. You may also find that a 2-piece swimsuit or shorts and a top are more convenient for bathroom stops.
What do I do if I am expecting my period?
Bring a good supply of tampons and/or pads with you. If you use a cup at home, these work great on the river. Because the river trip includes rapids each day with lots of waves and splashes, tampons and cups work best during the day. If you run out of supplies or get your period unexpectedly, we carry a supply of tampons in our first aid kits.
To dispose of these items (and any associated packaging material) we recommend bringing a Ziploc bag for each day of the trip. Use the Ziploc bag as a trash bag during the day, storing it in your waterproof box, and dispose of it in the evening in the camp trash. This method also works well for disposable shields or briefs for incontinence. You may also wish to purchase a “Go With Your Flow Pack” to dispose of these materials. Packs can be purchased at: https://animosa.co/shopgwyf.
Cups can be emptied right into the river and reinserted.
It is a good idea to bring some supplies with you even if you are not expecting your period.
How do I bathe during the trip?
Bathing on the river happens in the river! The river runs fairly cold so this can be challenging during cooler trips. Bathing at lunch when it is warm out is a good option. During the summer bathing is refreshing and feels great! Some people prefer to dunk in the river, get out and soap up and then dunk again to rinse. Other people find that using their cup and a washcloth is a more comfortable approach. Either way, all soap use needs to happen directly in the main stem of the Colorado River. Although you will stop at some beautiful side streams and waterfalls there is no soap allowed at these stops.
