June 2018 - Rafting the Grand Canyon!

Like Clarke Griswold in the movie Vacation, I had seen the Grand Canyon from the south rim 40 years or so ago.  "Yeah, I've seen the Grand Canyon."  But then in June 2011 I flew over it in my plane.  Surprisingly, I found it not that good from the air.  It's just too big.  And because of airspace restrictions you have to stay thousands of feet over the rim.  The river is just a non-moving, brownish-green ribbon way down below.  I think that trip planted the seed.  I realized the only way to really see the Grand Canyon was to get down in it.  See it from the river.

I suggested the idea of rafting the Grand Canyon to Lynnette and she was agreeable.  We even talked to another couple who had done it.  But I was worried about being able to hike out.  I love flying, but I'm afraid of heights!  I had visions of narrow ledges with a 2,000 foot drop on one side.  Then Lynnette said she thought it was possible to get helicoptered out.  I looked into it and sure enough, it was an option.

I thought the trip would be more fun with a group.  I put out feelers to group of high school/college buddies we do things with.  Four others were interested.  I did some research and decided on Hatch River Expeditions because they've been doing it a long time and have a great reputation.  June seemed to be the best month:  the water was not so cold, but the canyon was not so hot.  To get reservations for a group of six for June, I had to do it a year and a half ahead of time.  So we got scheduled for June 2018.   Finally the day arrived.

Well, what a trip!  A trip of a lifetime.  On the short list of coolest things I've ever done.  I'd have to advise anyone that rafting the Grand Canyon is one of those things you need to do in your life.

Everything went perfectly.  Hatch River Expeditions are real pros.  I can't think of a single thing to find fault with them on organization, the food, the service, the hospitality, their professionalism, the equipment.  All first rate.  We had great weather; I don't think I saw a single cloud the entire week.  The rapids were exiting and exhilerating, but I never felt threatened.  And the scenery!  Around each bend was a view the equivalent of Yosemite valley!  (Well, almost that good).   Doing it with a group of friends made the trip even more fun.   Do it.