Pre-trip evening (Las Vegas) 7:30 pm - Meet at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Las Vegas Airport South for an orientation with a CRATE representative. You will receive your waterproof bag and a briefing on what to expect in the morning. Day 1 – Travel to Lees Ferry & launch 6:00 am departure from the Fairfield Inn by chartered motor coach. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Virgin River Gorge and southern Utah, with a stop at the CRATE warehouse in Fredonia, AZ for an early lunch and to meet your guides. At Lees Ferry, you will load your gear, receive a river orientation, and begin your journey downstream, running the first set of Grand Canyon rapids. Days 2–6 – Rapids, hikes, and canyon life Each day includes a mix of big and moderate rapids, quiet floating sections, and off-river hikes into side canyons. You will visit overlooks, waterfalls, and unique geologic features, with time for photos, swimming where conditions allow, and relaxing in camp. Guides prepare meals and snacks, and you camp on riverside beaches under the stars. Day 7 – Take-out at Whitmore Wash & return to Las Vegas The rafting trip ends on the 7th morning at Whitmore Wash. A short helicopter flight will take you from the River to the Bar 10 Ranch. From the Bar 10, you will be transported to Las Vegas via a scenic air charter flight. Exact hiking locations and daily mileage may vary with river conditions, weather, and group pace.

Professional guide team for the full 7-day expedition 37-foot motor rafts and all river equipment Beginning trip transportation from Las Vegas to Lees Ferry by motor coach End of trip transportation by helicopter transfer and charter flight back to Las Vegas Meals and snacks from lunch on Day 1 through the final river day Water, lemonade / sports drink, coffee, tea, and select juices / soft drinks Camp kitchen, plates, and utensils Waterproof river bag (dry bag) for clothing and personal items Ammo can for small valuables and camera gear Sleep kit: sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and ground cloth Cots and camp chairs for each guest Two-person dome tents available or in case of inclement weather Coast Guard–approved life jackets 32 oz water bottle and 12 oz coffee mug (souvenir) Duffel bag for end of trip (souvenir)

Travel to and from Las Vegas before and after the trip Pre- and post-trip hotel nights in Las Vegas (recommended Fairfield Inn & Suites Airport South) Alcoholic beverages and specialty soft drinks (guests may bring a limited personal supply) Personal clothing, footwear, and toiletries Optional purchases at CRATE warehouse, Phantom Ranch, or along the way Travel insurance and optional trip-cancellation coverage Guide gratuities

River clothing: quick-dry shorts and shirts, swimsuits, a lightweight long-sleeve sun shirt, and breathable layers Warm layer and rain gear: a fleece or sweatshirt plus a 2-piece rain jacket and pants Footwear: river-ready sandals with a heel strap (Chaco, Teva, Keen, etc.) and athletic shoes or light hiking shoes for walks and hikes Sun protection: wide-brimmed hat or cap, sunglasses with a strap, sunscreen, and SPF lip balm Personal items: toiletries, any required medications, a small personal first-aid kit if desired, a headlamp, and a camera Photo ID for end of trip flight Gear weight limit is 30 lbs. A more detailed packing list will be sent to you upon booking.

What rivers do you raft?

We run the Colorado River and Green River – including Grand Canyon, Cataract Canyon, Desolation Canyon, and Westwater Canyon – as well as the remote Tatshenshini & Alsek Rivers in Alaska.

Is there a minimum age requirement for your rafting trips?

Yes — the age requirement depends on the trip: Grand Canyon: 12 yrs (motorized) | 14-16 yrs (rowing/paddle) Cataract Canyon: 12-14 yrs (depending on flows) Desolation Canyon: 6-8 yrs (min weight 50 lbs) Westwater Canyon: 12-14 yrs (depending on flows) Alaska: 14-16 yrs (depending on flows) 1-Day Trips: 6-8 yrs (min weight 50–60 lbs)

What should I bring / how do I pack?

We provide most major gear (cots, sleeping bags, dry bags, etc.). We recommend lightweight, quick-drying clothing layers, rain gear, water shoes, and extra camera batteries — especially since you’ll be “unplugged” on river time. We will provide you with a detailed packing list upon booking.

What happens if there’s an emergency?

CRATE trips take place in remote wilderness areas where medical care, communication, and evacuations may be limited or delayed. Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and will provide reasonable care in the field, but outside assistance depends on weather, terrain, aircraft availability, and local resources. Evacuations—including helicopter transport—are not guaranteed and may require moving to a safer location or waiting for conditions to improve. Wilderness travel carries inherent risks, and emergency response options can be unpredictable. In remote situations, evacuation costs are your responsibility; we recommend travel insurance.

Can I book a private or chartered trip?

Yes – CRATE offers chartered trips for groups . Please contact us early for availability, trip options and pricing.

Will I have cell service and power?

On-river you will likely have no cell service — that's part of the unplugged, wilderness experience. Charging options for your phone or camera are limited to bringing extra batteries, portable power banks, or solar chargers.

CODE OF CONDUCT At Colorado River & Trail Expeditions, we are committed to providing safe, enjoyable, and memorable whitewater rafting experiences for our customers. Our success depends on the professionalism and responsibility of our employees, as well as the respect and cooperation of our customers. To ensure a positive and enriching experience for everyone involved, we have established the following Code of Conduct: Dignity and Integrity: We conduct ourselves with honesty, integrity, and professionalism in all interactions, whether with employees, customers, or fellow adventurers. We treat all individuals with dignity and respect, valuing diversity and embracing differences. Respect for All: Treat all individuals with respect, courtesy, and dignity, regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or any other characteristic. Show respect and gratitude to your guides and crew members. They are there to ensure your safety and provide an enjoyable experience. Respect each individual’s need for privacy during personal moments such as changing clothes, urination, and bathing, by maintaining a discreet distance and refraining from intrusive behavior to ensure a comfortable and respectful experience for all. Zero Tolerance for Disrespectful Behavior: Disrespectful behavior, including but not limited to harassment, discrimination, bullying, hazing, or any form of intimidation, will not be tolerated. Safety and Environmental Stewardship: Safety is our top priority. We follow all safety guidelines and procedures to protect the well-being of our employees and customers. We are committed to environmental stewardship and follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the areas we explore. Alcohol & Drug Policy: Alcohol consumption during trips should be responsible and respectful of others' comfort and safety. Alcohol should only be consumed in camp and in moderation. Excessive drinking is discouraged. The use of recreational drugs during trips is strictly prohibited.

Dietary and Allergies Policy

Dietary Restrictions: We may not have the resources to fully accommodate restrictive diets in the wilderness, especially if they require special preparation. Our menu offers a variety of options, with limited gluten-free and vegetarian alternatives available if requested in advance. For non-dairy diets, we provide almond or soy milk, but not other substitutes. Guests are welcome to check ingredient labels in our camp kitchen. Allergies: If you have severe allergies causing breathing issues or anaphylaxis, consult us before booking. This rafting trip may not be suitable for those with severe food allergies due to potential cross-contamination. Non-severe allergy travelers must self-monitor food intake.

Health and Physical Requirements

HEALTH & PHYSICAL REQUIRMENTS People of all ages have enjoyed this river trip with us. Our major concern is that participants be in good health and good physical and mental condition. We do not recommend this trip for those with chronic heart trouble, back pain, severe arthritis, or for anyone recuperating from recent surgery. Pregnant women should check with their physicians. Factors such as age, weight, lack of conditioning, heart or other chronic diseases, may be exacerbated due to the unique environmental conditions and physical challenges of a rafting adventure. With this in mind, please let us know if you have any health conditions of which we should be aware. Essential Eligibility Criteria for Rafting Trips: Be able to wear & properly fasten Type V Life Jacket provided by CRATE (max. chest size 58”) Be able to get on and off the boat multiple times each day Be able to hold on to ropes, handholds, and safety lines aboard the raft Be able to assist in self rescue in case of falling overboard, such as swim to the raft and/or catch and hold on to a thrown safety rope. Be able to carry personal gear on and off the boat and to/from the campsite Be able to set up personal campsite (tent, camping gear, etc.) Be able to walk over sand, rocks, unimproved trails and other uneven terrain Be able to withstand extended environmental elements, including exposure to extreme heat, cold, wind, and rain. Lifejacket / PFD Policy All guests must wear our Coast Guard-approved life jacket (personal flotation device or PFD) at all times while on the water. To properly fit into a life jacket, guests must meet the following requirements: Be at least 50 pounds Chest size under 58 inches

Minimum Age Requirement: Grand Canyon Motor: 12 years old at time of travel Grand Canyon Non-Motor: 14 years old at time of travel Grand Canyon Paddle Rafts: 16 years old at time of travel * All youth must be at least 50 pounds to fit properly into a PFD

Colorado River & Trail Expeditions Policies GC

Colorado River & Trail Expeditions reserves the right to cancel, delay, or reschedule any expedition due to weather or river conditions or lack of sufficient reservations. In the event of cancellation or rescheduling by us, deposits and payments will be totally refunded or applied to another trip according to your wishes. Grand Canyon Restrictions: Rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon is limited to one private or commercial trip per-person each year . We are required to submit the full legal name, address, and date of birth for all Grand Canyon customers to the National Park Service for their review. This information will be used only to enforce their “no repeat” policy. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact our office before reserving a Grand Canyon trip. Travel Insurance Policy: We strongly recommend that you sign up for travel insurance to protect the monetary investment you have made in your river trip. For more information or to purchase the available plans, visit https://www.travelexinsurance.com/ or contact Travelex Insurance at 1-800-228-9792 and reference location number 44-0060.

Colorado River & Trail Expeditions Cancellation

Cancellation Policy: Half of your deposit is refundable up to 120 days prior to departure if you must cancel your reservation for any reason. Final payment on your account is due 90 days prior to departure and is non-refundable unless you or we are able to fill the vacancy. We reserve the right to resell trips if final payments are not made in a timely manner and arrangements for late payments have not been made with our office. This means if you are unable to go on the river trip and have to cancel your reservation after your deposit and/or final payment has been made, we will not refund your money unless you or we are able to find someone else to take your place. It also means that we will not issue a refund if you arrive late and do not make it on the trip due to travel delays, flight cancellations, illness, or other reasons. Cancellation Policy for Private Groups/Charters: If you have joined a private charter trip, your deposit is non-refundable. Final payment is due 120 days prior departure. We reserve the right to re-sell trips if final payments are not made in a timely manner and arrangements for late payments have not been made with our office. Your deposit and your final payment are non-refundable unless you or we are able to fill the vacancy. This means if you are unable to go on the river trip and have to cancel your reservation after your deposit and/or final payment has been made, we will not refund your money unless we are able to find someone else to take your place. It also means that we will not issue a refund if you arrive late and do not make it on the trip due to travel delays, flight cancellations, illness, or other reasons.

Activity

This 7-day motorized expedition covers 188 miles of the Grand Canyon from Lees Ferry to Whitmore Wash. You will travel on 37-foot motor rafts, running legendary rapids like Hermit, Crystal, and Lava Falls, and exploring side canyons with waterfalls and natural pools. Each day includes time off the river to hike to hidden wonders and geological sites. Evenings are spent on riverside beaches, with hearty camp meals and big desert night skies. The trip ends with a spectacular helicopter ride from the river to the rim, followed by a scenic charter flight back to Las Vegas.

Itinerary
Pre-trip evening (Las Vegas)
7:30 pm - Meet at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Las Vegas Airport South for an orientation with a CRATE representative. You will receive your waterproof bag and a briefing on what to expect in the morning.

Day 1 – Travel to Lees Ferry & launch
6:00 am departure from the Fairfield Inn by chartered motor coach. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Virgin River Gorge and southern Utah, with a stop at the CRATE warehouse in Fredonia, AZ for an early lunch and to meet your guides. At Lees Ferry, you will load your gear, receive a river orientation, and begin your journey downstream, running the first set of Grand Canyon rapids.

Days 2–6 – Rapids, hikes, and canyon life
Each day includes a mix of big and moderate rapids, quiet floating sections, and off-river hikes into side canyons. You will visit overlooks, waterfalls, and unique geologic features, with time for photos, swimming where conditions allow, and relaxing in camp. Guides prepare meals and snacks, and you camp on riverside beaches under the stars.

Day 7 – Take-out at Whitmore Wash & return to Las Vegas
The rafting trip ends on the 7th morning at Whitmore Wash. A short helicopter flight will take you from the River to the Bar 10 Ranch. From the Bar 10, you will be transported to Las Vegas via a scenic air charter flight.

Exact hiking locations and daily mileage may vary with river conditions, weather, and group pace.
Includes
Professional guide team for the full 7-day expedition
37-foot motor rafts and all river equipment
Beginning trip transportation from Las Vegas to Lees Ferry by motor coach
End of trip transportation by helicopter transfer and charter flight back to Las Vegas
Meals and snacks from lunch on Day 1 through the final river day
Water, lemonade / sports drink, coffee, tea, and select juices / soft drinks
Camp kitchen, plates, and utensils
Waterproof river bag (dry bag) for clothing and personal items
Ammo can for small valuables and camera gear
Sleep kit: sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and ground cloth
Cots and camp chairs for each guest
Two-person dome tents available or in case of inclement weather
Coast Guard–approved life jackets
32 oz water bottle and 12 oz coffee mug (souvenir)
Duffel bag for end of trip (souvenir)
Excludes
Travel to and from Las Vegas before and after the trip
Pre- and post-trip hotel nights in Las Vegas (recommended Fairfield Inn & Suites Airport South)
Alcoholic beverages and specialty soft drinks (guests may bring a limited personal supply)
Personal clothing, footwear, and toiletries
Optional purchases at CRATE warehouse, Phantom Ranch, or along the way
Travel insurance and optional trip-cancellation coverage
Guide gratuities
What to Bring
River clothing: quick-dry shorts and shirts, swimsuits, a lightweight long-sleeve sun shirt, and breathable layers
Warm layer and rain gear: a fleece or sweatshirt plus a 2-piece rain jacket and pants
Footwear: river-ready sandals with a heel strap (Chaco, Teva, Keen, etc.) and athletic shoes or light hiking shoes for walks and hikes
Sun protection: wide-brimmed hat or cap, sunglasses with a strap, sunscreen, and SPF lip balm
Personal items: toiletries, any required medications, a small personal first-aid kit if desired, a headlamp, and a camera
Photo ID for end of trip flight
Gear weight limit is 30 lbs. A more detailed packing list will be sent to you upon booking.

What rivers do you raft?
We run the Colorado River and Green River – including Grand Canyon, Cataract Canyon, Desolation Canyon, and Westwater Canyon – as well as the remote Tatshenshini & Alsek Rivers in Alaska.
Is there a minimum age requirement for your rafting trips?
Yes — the age requirement depends on the trip:

Grand Canyon: 12 yrs (motorized) | 14-16 yrs (rowing/paddle)
Cataract Canyon: 12-14 yrs (depending on flows)
Desolation Canyon: 6-8 yrs (min weight 50 lbs)
Westwater Canyon: 12-14 yrs (depending on flows)
Alaska: 14-16 yrs (depending on flows)
1-Day Trips: 6-8 yrs (min weight 50–60 lbs)
What should I bring / how do I pack?
We provide most major gear (cots, sleeping bags, dry bags, etc.). We recommend lightweight, quick-drying clothing layers, rain gear, water shoes, and extra camera batteries — especially since you’ll be “unplugged” on river time.

We will provide you with a detailed packing list upon booking.
What happens if there’s an emergency?
CRATE trips take place in remote wilderness areas where medical care, communication, and evacuations may be limited or delayed. Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and will provide reasonable care in the field, but outside assistance depends on weather, terrain, aircraft availability, and local resources. Evacuations—including helicopter transport—are not guaranteed and may require moving to a safer location or waiting for conditions to improve. Wilderness travel carries inherent risks, and emergency response options can be unpredictable. In remote situations, evacuation costs are your responsibility; we recommend travel insurance.
Can I book a private or chartered trip?
Yes – CRATE offers chartered trips for groups. Please contact us early for availability, trip options and pricing.
Will I have cell service and power?
On-river you will likely have no cell service — that's part of the unplugged, wilderness experience. Charging options for your phone or camera are limited to bringing extra batteries, portable power banks, or solar chargers.

Code of Conduct
CODE OF CONDUCT

At Colorado River & Trail Expeditions, we are committed to providing safe, enjoyable, and memorable whitewater rafting experiences for our customers. Our success depends on the professionalism and responsibility of our employees, as well as the respect and cooperation of our customers. To ensure a positive and enriching experience for everyone involved, we have established the following Code of Conduct:

Dignity and Integrity:
We conduct ourselves with honesty, integrity, and professionalism in all interactions, whether with employees, customers, or fellow adventurers.
We treat all individuals with dignity and respect, valuing diversity and embracing differences.
Respect for All:
Treat all individuals with respect, courtesy, and dignity, regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or any other characteristic.
Show respect and gratitude to your guides and crew members. They are there to ensure your safety and provide an enjoyable experience.
Respect each individual’s need for privacy during personal moments such as changing clothes, urination, and bathing, by maintaining a discreet distance and refraining from intrusive behavior to ensure a comfortable and respectful experience for all.
Zero Tolerance for Disrespectful Behavior:
Disrespectful behavior, including but not limited to harassment, discrimination, bullying, hazing, or any form of intimidation, will not be tolerated.
Safety and Environmental Stewardship:
Safety is our top priority. We follow all safety guidelines and procedures to protect the well-being of our employees and customers.
We are committed to environmental stewardship and follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the areas we explore.
Alcohol & Drug Policy:
Alcohol consumption during trips should be responsible and respectful of others' comfort and safety. Alcohol should only be consumed in camp and in moderation. Excessive drinking is discouraged.
The use of recreational drugs during trips is strictly prohibited.
Dietary and Allergies Policy
Dietary Restrictions:
We may not have the resources to fully accommodate restrictive diets in the wilderness, especially if they require special preparation. Our menu offers a variety of options, with limited gluten-free and vegetarian alternatives available if requested in advance. For non-dairy diets, we provide almond or soy milk, but not other substitutes. Guests are welcome to check ingredient labels in our camp kitchen.

Allergies:
If you have severe allergies causing breathing issues or anaphylaxis, consult us before booking. This rafting trip may not be suitable for those with severe food allergies due to potential cross-contamination. Non-severe allergy travelers must self-monitor food intake.
Health and Physical Requirements
HEALTH & PHYSICAL REQUIRMENTS
People of all ages have enjoyed this river trip with us. Our major concern is that participants be in good health and good physical and mental condition. We do not recommend this trip for those with chronic heart trouble, back pain, severe arthritis, or for anyone recuperating from recent surgery. Pregnant women should check with their physicians. Factors such as age, weight, lack of conditioning, heart or other chronic diseases, may be exacerbated due to the unique environmental conditions and physical challenges of a rafting adventure. With this in mind, please let us know if you have any health conditions of which we should be aware.

Essential Eligibility Criteria for Rafting Trips:
Be able to wear & properly fasten Type V Life Jacket provided by CRATE (max. chest size 58”)
Be able to get on and off the boat multiple times each day
Be able to hold on to ropes, handholds, and safety lines aboard the raft
Be able to assist in self rescue in case of falling overboard, such as swim to the raft and/or catch and hold on to a thrown safety rope.
Be able to carry personal gear on and off the boat and to/from the campsite
Be able to set up personal campsite (tent, camping gear, etc.)
Be able to walk over sand, rocks, unimproved trails and other uneven terrain
Be able to withstand extended environmental elements, including exposure to extreme heat, cold, wind, and rain.
Lifejacket / PFD Policy
All guests must wear our Coast Guard-approved life jacket (personal flotation device or PFD) at all times while on the water. To properly fit into a life jacket, guests must meet the following requirements:
Be at least 50 pounds
Chest size under 58 inches
Age Requirements GC
Minimum Age Requirement:
Grand Canyon Motor: 12 years old at time of travel
Grand Canyon Non-Motor: 14 years old at time of travel
Grand Canyon Paddle Rafts: 16 years old at time of travel
* All youth must be at least 50 pounds to fit properly into a PFD
Colorado River & Trail Expeditions Policies GC
Colorado River & Trail Expeditions reserves the right to cancel, delay, or reschedule any expedition due to weather or river conditions or lack of sufficient reservations. In the event of cancellation or rescheduling by us, deposits and payments will be totally refunded or applied to another trip according to your wishes.

Grand Canyon Restrictions: Rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon is limited to one private or commercial trip per-person each year. We are required to submit the full legal name, address, and date of birth for all Grand Canyon customers to the National Park Service for their review. This information will be used only to enforce their “no repeat” policy. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact our office before reserving a Grand Canyon trip.

Travel Insurance Policy:
We strongly recommend that you sign up for travel insurance to protect the monetary investment you have made in your river trip. For more information or to purchase the available plans, visit https://www.travelexinsurance.com/ or contact Travelex Insurance at 1-800-228-9792 and reference location number 44-0060.
Colorado River & Trail Expeditions Cancellation
Cancellation Policy:
Half of your deposit is refundable up to 120 days prior to departure if you must cancel your reservation for any reason. Final payment on your account is due 90 days prior to departure and is non-refundable unless you or we are able to fill the vacancy. We reserve the right to resell trips if final payments are not made in a timely manner and arrangements for late payments have not been made with our office.

This means if you are unable to go on the river trip and have to cancel your reservation after your deposit and/or final payment has been made, we will not refund your money unless you or we are able to find someone else to take your place. It also means that we will not issue a refund if you arrive late and do not make it on the trip due to travel delays, flight cancellations, illness, or other reasons.

Cancellation Policy for Private Groups/Charters:
If you have joined a private charter trip, your deposit is non-refundable. Final payment is due 120 days prior departure. We reserve the right to re-sell trips if final payments are not made in a timely manner and arrangements for late payments have not been made with our office.

Your deposit and your final payment are non-refundable unless you or we are able to fill the vacancy. This means if you are unable to go on the river trip and have to cancel your reservation after your deposit and/or final payment has been made, we will not refund your money unless we are able to find someone else to take your place. It also means that we will not issue a refund if you arrive late and do not make it on the trip due to travel delays, flight cancellations, illness, or other reasons.

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Grand Canyon 7-Day Rafting Trip with Helicopter Exit

Overview

Trip Details

Itinerary

Includes

Excludes

What to Bring

Frequently Asked Questions

What rivers do you raft?

Is there a minimum age requirement for your rafting trips?

What should I bring / how do I pack?

What happens if there’s an emergency?

Can I book a private or chartered trip?

Will I have cell service and power?

Policies

Code of Conduct

Dietary and Allergies Policy

Health and Physical Requirements

Age Requirements GC

Colorado River & Trail Expeditions Policies GC

Colorado River & Trail Expeditions Cancellation

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