Experience the Colorado River + A Scenic Helicopter Flight Out of the Grand Canyon
Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the heart of the gran Cañón. This full-day rafting adventure takes you down the Colorado River with skilled Corredores del río Hualapai, followed by a scenic helicopter flight that lifts you out of the Canyon for a breathtaking aerial finale. It’s one of the most immersive ways to experience the beauty, culture, and power of the Grand Canyon in a single day.
2026 Rafting Season begins on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
What is the One-Day Rafting Helicopter Adventure Itinerary?
Your One-Day Rafting Helicopter Adventure offers a full day of guided whitewater excitement, cultural connection, and unforgettable canyon views. Here’s what to expect during your experience:
Check-In at Hualapai Lodge
Begin your adventure at Hualapai Lodge in Peach Springs, AZ, located along historic Route 66.
Journey to the Colorado River
Depart along a scenic 21-mile dirt road into the heart of the Grand Canyon to reach your river launch point.
White Water Rafting
Board a motorized raft and ride through light, lower-level rapids with an experienced Hualapai guide leading your group safely down the Colorado River.
Optional Hike to Travertine Falls
Stop for a short, guided hike using ropes and ladders through a slot canyon pathway to the stunning Travertine Falls. Participation in the hike is optional.
Lunch Along the Riverbank
Enjoy a relaxing lunch at Diamond Creek Beach surrounded by canyon walls and riverside scenery.
Smooth-Water Rafting
Continue your journey on calmer waters as the canyon opens up into wide desert panoramas.
Scenic Helicopter Flight & Return to Hualapai Lodge
Rise up and out of the Grand Canyon on a breathtaking scenic helicopter flight, then enjoy transportation back to Hualapai Lodge to conclude your adventure.
Packing the right gear can make your experience that much more memorable. We recommend bringing along a backpack and a small waterproof bag for your electronics and other important belongings.
On the River
While you’re on the rafting portion of your adventure, it can be helpful to wear a poncho or rain jacket, or have lightweight apparel such as a dri-fit shirt, fast-drying shorts, and water shoes or river sandals.
After Rafting
In your backpack, bring along an extra pair of clothes, down to your undergarments and socks. Other essentials and nice-to-haves include sunblock, sunglasses with straps, a hat with a visor or strap, aloe vera lotion or gel, bug repellent, cash or card, and wet wipes.
You can get a full list of what to bring when you visit by taking a look at our packing list.
Electronics
If you are bringing along a camera, phone, or other electronic devices, it’s important that you recognize you’re bringing them at your own risk. You will be on the water, and if devices are not secured properly, they could get wet, damaged, or lost.
What Is Included in the One-Day Rafting Helicopter Adventure?
Our one-day rafting adventure delivers maximum excitement and unforgettable scenery—all in a single day. Perfect for guests short on time but eager for a full Grand Canyon experience. When you book the One-Day Rafting Helicopter Adventure, you can expect:
A Professional Hualapai River Guide
Your guide provides expert navigation, cultural insights, and safety throughout your journey.
Two River Segments
Experience an exciting whitewater stretch in the morning and a smoother, scenic float in the afternoon.
Optional Hike to Travertine Falls
Take a short, guided climb through a narrow canyon pathway to the beautiful Travertine Falls.
Scenic Helicopter Flight Out of the Canyon
At the end of your rafting journey, enjoy a breathtaking helicopter ascent out of the Grand Canyon.
Safety Gear Provided
Lifejackets are included for all participants.
Waterproof Dry Bag for Personal Items
Each group receives a 3-foot-tall dry bag to protect essential items during the trip.
How Long Does the Colorado River Rafting Trip Take?
You can expect the One-Day White Water Rafting Helicopter Adventure to be a full-day experience. Check-in begins as early as 7:00 a.m. at the River Runners Concierge, where you’ll complete a brief waiver and orientation. We recommend enjoying breakfast beforehand so you’re ready for your day on the river.
Your adventure officially begins at 8:00 a.m., when your group will be picked up from Hualapai Lodge. Many guests choose to stay at Hualapai Lodge during their visit, as it is the departure point for all Hualapai River Runners whitewater rafting journeys.
Located along the longest remaining stretch of historic Route 66, the lodge provides a warm, comfortable base for your adventure and offers an authentic connection to the rich culture and history of the Tribu Hualapai. It sits within Peach Springs on the Reserva india Hualapai—an area known for its significance, story, and natural beauty.
Along your rafting journey, you’ll take a short, guided walk through a narrow canyon to Travertine Falls, a hidden desert oasis that provides a refreshing pause during the day’s excitement.
At approximately 1:30 p.m., your river experience concludes at the Pontoon Dock, where you’ll board a scenic helicopter flight that lifts you out of the canyon—an unforgettable aerial view to cap off your adventure.
From there, you’ll be transported back to Hualapai Lodge, typically returning between 5:00 and 6:00 p.m.
Is the Rafting Trip Safe for Children?
Children aged 8 years old and older are welcome to join our white water rafting adventures. Although the first portion of our One-Day White Water Rafting trip does go through light rapids, our younger rafters can look forward to having a safe and memorable experience. All our guests will be required to wear their lifejackets while on the water.
Do I Need Experience To Go on This Rafting Trip?
No, you don’t need prior experience to enjoy our white water rafting adventures. We welcome rafters as young as 8 years old to enjoy our rafting excursions. During check-in and upon meeting with your guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know for a safe and fun adventure with your group.
