A rafting trip through the canyon is the experience of a lifetime, combining jaw-dropping scenery with camaraderie and relaxation. Choices vary for smooth-water and white-water trips, lasting from a few hours to a couple of weeks.

If you have limited time, or if the thought of white-water makes you white-knuckled, you can travel the smooth water from Glen Canyon Dam to Lees Ferry, a pleasant 15-mile trip lasting half a day. Trips are suitable for children over the age of four. Contact Colorado River Discovery (130 Sixth Ave., Page, AZ 86040, 888/522-6244, www.raftthecanyon.com) or visit one of the lodge transportation desks to make arrangements.

White-water trips can be motorized or non-motorized. Non-motorized trips on paddleboats, oar rafts, and wooden dories are slower and quieter—because there are no motors—and more exciting, because you sit closer to the water and may be one of the paddlers. Motorized trips on large rafts demand less of passengers, and you can cover more canyon in a shorter period of time.

Motorized or not, white-water trips are a combination of peaceful floating, exciting rapids, rugged hikes, and often gourmet meals on journeys lasting 3–18 days. You’ll spend 3–6 hours on the river each day, with the rest of the time for hiking and exploring, or relaxing at the camp. Guides are experienced and well-versed in canyon geology and natural history (but don’t fall for the story about the rock beavers).

Reservations are required for trips, which can fill up a year in advance. It’s possible to get on a trip on fairly short notice, however, as cancellations do occur. Sixteen outfitters lead white-water rafting trips in Grand Canyon. Trips are suitable for ages 12 or older, and prices start at about $220 per day. This is a true bargain, considering that meals, transportation, and gear are included, and the experience you’ll have is priceless.

Commercial trips are scheduled from April through October, with discounts sometimes available for early spring or late fall trips, when storms or cold spells are more likely—bring fleece and rain gear. During the summer, when temperatures in the canyon soar over 100°F, the Colorado River remains a chilly 45–55°F, and splashing through rapids is welcome refreshment. Another way to beat the heat and relentless sun is to soak a cotton hat, shirt, bandana, or sarong in river water, covering exposed skin. If you bring your lucky Bears cap or wear your favorite prescription sunglasses, be sure they’re attached with a clip or retainer before you go bouncing through the rapids.