Colorado River Smooth Water Float Trip from Flagstaff

Explore the Scenic Colorado River Float from Flagstaff for $372.39

This full-day Colorado River float trip from Flagstaff offers an ideal mix of desert sightseeing, Native American shopping, and a relaxing scenic boat ride. Priced at $372.39 per person, the tour typically gets booked 72 days in advance, highlighting its popularity. With a duration of approximately 12 hours, it’s a comprehensive outdoor experience suited for those interested in nature, geology, and cultural highlights. The tour includes hotel pickup and a mobile ticket, making logistics smooth and straightforward.

The trip starts early at 7:00 am, with a pickup from your Flagstaff hotel, guiding you out of town onto the Colorado Plateau for stunning views of the San Francisco Peaks. The day features several stops, including the Painted Desert, Cameron Trading Post, and a float down the Colorado River that showcases Glen Canyon’s towering walls and famous Balancing Rocks. The experience balances scenic views, cultural shopping, and leisurely river time, making it a well-rounded desert adventure.

Key Points

• Full-day tour lasting approximately 12 hours from Flagstaff.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience.
• Scenic float on the Colorado River, passing Glen Canyon and Lees Ferry.
• Visit the Painted Desert and Cameron Trading Post for Native American art and crafts.
• Stop for a beach lunch and opportunities to search for petroglyphs.
• Guided experience with professional guides and bottled water included.

Starting the Day with Flagstaff Hotel Pickup

The tour begins early at 7:00 am with hotel pickup in Flagstaff. From there, the drive takes you out of town and onto the Colorado Plateau, where the San Francisco Peaks rise more than 12,600 feet above the desert floor. This scenic drive provides panoramic views that set the tone for the day, especially for those who appreciate geology and mountain scenery.

Reaching the Painted Desert, the landscape’s unique hues and formations are a highlight. The tour makes a scheduled stop at Cameron Trading Post, where Native American artwork from the Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi tribes is available for purchase. This stop adds a cultural dimension to the trip, allowing for authentic shopping and an appreciation of local crafts.

Navigating the Colorado Plateau and Painted Desert

The drive through the Painted Desert exposes a landscape of vivid colors and dramatic formations. It’s an ideal spot for photos and understanding the geological history of the region. The Cameron Trading Post at the Little Colorado River Gorge is a focal point for Native American arts, and visitors can browse souvenirs crafted by local tribes.

While the stop is 30 minutes long, it offers enough time to explore the shops and admire the scenery. The stop is a great opportunity to support Native artisans and learn about their cultural traditions. The area’s scenery and artisanal offerings make it a memorable cultural and visual experience.

Board the Boat for a Scenic Colorado River Float

After the cultural stop, the group travels to Page, where the main feature begins: a scenic boat float on the Colorado River. The boat launch at Lees Ferry marks the start of the approximately 3-hour water portion of the tour.

Guides lead you along the river, passing Glen Canyon’s 1,000-foot walls that tower majestically above. The float offers a relaxing way to see the canyon’s geological formations, including the famous Balancing Rocks. An added highlight is the opportunity to search for ancient petroglyphs during a beach stop, giving insight into the region’s past inhabitants.

Lunch and Petroglyph Search at the Riverside Beach

A beach stop along the river provides a chance to enjoy a provided lunch in a picturesque setting. The meal is typically a buffet or similar arrangement, allowing guests to refuel after several hours on the water.

During the stop, adventurous guests can dive into the icy Colorado River—though the water is described as very cold and best suited for those prepared for a quick dip. While the cold water might limit swimming for some, the breathtaking views and historic petroglyphs remaining on the beach make this a memorable part of the float.

Passing Glen Canyon and Lees Ferry

Continuing downstream, the boat passes Lees Ferry, a historic crossing point on the Colorado River. The float then takes you past Glen Canyon’s imposing cliffs, which are notable for their dramatic height and color.

The guide explains the significance of features like the Balanced Rocks—large, gravity-defying formations—and the Navajo Bridge, which marks the transition point before the river enters the more tranquil stretch of the Horseshoe Bend area. This section of the float highlights geological and natural landmarks that have made the canyon famous.

Sunset Views and Return to Flagstaff

Once the float concludes, the group boards a vehicle for the return drive to Flagstaff. Along the way, the fiery glow of the setting sun casts an unforgettable light on the Painted Desert landscape, creating a perfect end to the full-day adventure. The tour wraps up with hotel drop-off in the late evening, around sunset or shortly after, giving ample time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

Practical Details and Tips for the Tour

The tour operates with professional guides who are knowledgeable about the region’s geology, culture, and history. Guests receive bottled water and a lunch, and are advised to wear layers in case of cold or windy weather, especially since the desert can be chilly in the mornings and evenings.

Participants should bring a towel and wear shoes suitable for getting wet, as the boat float involves some splashes and the possibility to swim. The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves some walking and getting in and out of boats.

The group size is limited to 14 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience with plenty of space for personal attention from guides. Tips for guides are recommended at 20%, reflecting the high quality of service provided.

Who Will Appreciate This Colorado River Float?

This tour is ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone interested in scenery, geology, and Native American culture. The balance of sightseeing, shopping, and relaxing on the water makes it suitable for a broad audience, especially those who prefer a leisurely pace over adrenaline-pumping activities like white-water rafting.

While the float is a gentle experience, some may find the cold water less appealing in winter or cooler seasons. The tour’s early start and full-day length might require a good level of physical readiness and comfort with long hours.

Why Choose This Tour?

The Colorado River Smooth Water Float from Flagstaff offers a comprehensive journey through some of Arizona’s most iconic landscapes. The combination of scenic drives, Native American arts shopping, and a relaxing river float makes it a uniquely memorable experience.

High marks for knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and good value support its reputation. The included lunch, hotel pickup, and small group size enhance convenience and comfort. The only notable consideration is the non-refundable policy, so visitors should be sure of their plans in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is appropriate for all ages, but children eight years and younger are required by Arizona State Law to be in a car seat or booster seat, which guests must provide themselves.

What should I bring for the boat float?
Guests should bring a towel and shoes that can get wet. Wearing layers is recommended in case of cold or windy weather, especially in the morning or late afternoon.

How long is the float on the Colorado River?
The water portion of the tour lasts about 3 hours, during which you’ll float past Glen Canyon, Lees Ferry, and Balanced Rocks. The entire day lasts approximately 12 hours from pickup to return.

Can I swim in the Colorado River during this tour?
While some guests choose to dive into the cold river, it is very cold, and only suitable for quick dips. Swimming is not a core part of the tour but is available if you’re comfortable with the chilly water.

What is the cancellation policy?
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or reschedule is offered. A minimum number of travelers is required for the tour to operate.

The Colorado River Smooth Water Float Trip from Flagstaff offers a relaxing yet scenic way to enjoy Arizona’s desert landscapes, canyon vistas, and Native American artistry—all within a well-organized, 12-hour package with great reviews.