8 Day Oar

2023 Oar Trip

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Currently not bookable

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2024 Oar Trip

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Not booking

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Lower Canyon

Start with a strenuous, but rewarding 8 mile hike down to the Colorado River where you meet your guides and crew. Raft the Grand Canyon, navigate rapids, and enjoy hikes to side canyons and waterfalls. Unwind at camp each evening with new friends, great food, and stunning scenery. Trip price includes optional ground transportation to Las Vegas, NV, or the South Rim Grand Canyon on the last day.

We are currently not accepting 2023 reservations for this trip. Read our blog to learn more.

Trip Information

8 days, 7 nights

Begins
South Rim Grand Canyon
Ends
Las Vegas, NV or South Rim Grand Canyon
River Miles
136 river miles from South Rim to Diamond Creek
Minimum Age
12 years of age

What's Included?

A rigorous 8 mile hike along Bright Angel Trail
An active adventure – be prepared for the physical nature of the trip
Ground transportation to Las Vegas, NV or the South Rim Grand Canyon on the last day (optional)
Bus transportation to Peach Springs on Day 8
136 river miles on oar rafts
Experienced river and hiking guides
Side hikes to scenic vistas, hidden waterfalls, and more
Two dry bags and a camp chair
A tent, cot, pillow, sleeping bag, and sheet
Daily meals prepared in our camp kitchen
Snacks, water, electrolyte replenishment drinks, sodas
Arizona River Runners insulated cup

Cost listed above does not include: Lodging before and after your trip, transportation to South Rim prior to trip start, National Park entrance fee, personal travel insurance, and gratuity.

>Reservation Info/Cancellation Policy

Trip Itinerary

Pre-Trip

Las Vegas Option: If you choose to fly into Las Vegas, you will need to arrive in Vegas at least two days before the trip and then make your way to the South Rim the day before your trip. We will provide you with a list of transportation options upon booking your river trip.

South Rim Option: If you choose to drive to the South Rim on your own, arrive at least one day before your trip.

South Rim Lodging: You will want to stay at the South Rim Village in Grand Canyon National Park the night before you hike in. Lodging should be booked as soon as possible. Reservations in the park open one year in advance and can sell out.

Day 1

Meet our hiking guide bright and early to hike down the 8-mile (13km) Bright Angel Trail with your pack. The trail is well maintained, but it is all downhill, loses a vertical mile of elevation, and much of it is in full sun. There are many log steps and switchbacks built into the trail. Once you reach the river, repack your bags and board the rafts.

At the river, you will join a group that has been rafting together for several days. These guides and guests are on our longer full canyon trip, and they will help orient you to life on the river when you arrive.

River Days

Each day there are opportunities to soak up the Grand Canyon vistas, experience the biggest whitewater in North America, and explore various side canyons, waterfalls, and streams. At midday, lunch is prepared on the sandy beaches next to the river. After a full day, it will be time to set up camp and then relax while sharing stories with new friends. As the sun sets over the canyon walls, appreciate a good night’s rest under a starry sky.

Final Day

Enjoy one final riverside meal amidst the Grand Canyon backdrop. After breakfast, pack up camp, load the rafts, and boat to Diamond Creek. From there, guests will ride a bus to Peach Springs, AZ. Air-conditioned charter buses will be waiting to return guests to Las Vegas, NV, or the South Rim. Plan to arrive at your final destination mid to late afternoon.

South Rim Option: If you choose to drive to the South Rim on your own, arrive at least one day before your trip.

What people say

“I LOVE the Grand Canyon, and the hike down helps put into perspective how deep the Canyon is... The beauty of the canyon walls was ever-changing with each twist and turn of the river. Photos never do it justice, the best way to experience it is in person.”
— Barbara, Phoenix, AZ

“The scenery and the river would be the same with any company. What sets Arizona River Runners apart is of course the Company, but the crew really stands out in my mind. They clearly enjoy what they are doing, and they increased my enjoyment of the experience! I'd travel anywhere with any and all of them! I would like to add that with 29 people sharing the camp, everything went incredibly well, and I met some really terrific people!”
— Ron, Tucson, AZ