Colorado River Smooth Water Small-Group Float Trip from Sedona or Flagstaff

Discover the Colorado River Smooth Water Float Trip from Sedona for $372.39

This full-day tour offers a mellow rafting experience on the Colorado River, starting from Sedona and extending into the stunning scenery of Glen Canyon. With round-trip hotel pickup, professional guides, and a picnic lunch, it provides a comprehensive introduction to northern Arizona’s natural beauty. The tour is designed for those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural stops, and a peaceful float on calm waters, making it ideal for travelers seeking relaxation and scenic richness.

Priced at $372.39 per person, this tour is typically booked 96 days in advance, indicating strong interest and popularity. The tour runs from May 1st to October 1st, aligning with the season when the Colorado River is most accessible and the weather is generally favorable. While the long drives—around 3 hours each way—may be a consideration for some, the trip compensates with stunning views and unique stops like the Cameron Navajo Trading Post and ancient petroglyph sites.

Key Points

• Full-day experience with approximately 11 hours of adventure, sightseeing, and relaxation.
• Rafting on the Colorado River covers around 15 miles of the Glen Canyon section on calm waters.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Sedona, making logistics hassle-free.
• Stops at the Cameron Navajo Trading Post, the Horseshoe Bend viewpoint, and Lees Ferry.
• Picnic lunch provided on a sandy riverbank, with an opportunity to swim or hike to see ancient petroglyphs.
• Smaller group sizes (max 12 travelers) ensure personalized attention from guides.
• Seasonal activity, only available between May and October.

Scenic Drive Through Northern Arizona’s Highlights

The tour departs early from Sedona in a climate-controlled van, heading north toward Page, Arizona. The drive itself is a key part of the experience, offering views of the San Francisco Volcanic Field, home to over 600 volcanoes, and the Painted Desert, part of Petrified Forest National Park.

Travelers get a chance to stretch their legs at the Cameron Navajo Trading Post, a historic site operated by the Navajo Nation since 1911. This stop provides a memorable glimpse into local Native American arts and crafts, and it’s a convenient rest point before arriving at the river.

Glen Canyon and the Formation of Lake Powell

The next stop is at the Glen Canyon Dam and the Glen Canyon Recreation Area. The dam has created Lake Powell, a vast reservoir known for its striking blue waters and scenic surroundings. The raft launch site is nearby, where a safety briefing introduces the group to the gentle, smooth waters of the Colorado River.

This section of the river is famous for its tranquil conditions, making it suitable for a relaxed, peaceful float rather than white-water rafting. The 15-mile float passes through beautiful canyon walls, offering ample opportunities for photos and quiet reflection.

The River Experience and Petroglyph Exploration

Once on the water, the raft guides you through the Glen Canyon stretch, where stunning rock formations and historic petroglyphs adorn the cliffs. A picnic lunch—comprising sandwiches, snacks, and fruit—is served on a riverbank sandy beach, providing a restful break amid the scenery.

During the float, there’s also time for a swim in the chilly Colorado River waters or an easy hike to access ancient petroglyphs carved by the Anasazi people. The petroglyphs offer a tangible connection to the area’s long-settled past, making the trip both relaxing and culturally enriching.

Visiting Horseshoe Bend and Lees Ferry

A highlight of the tour is a brief stop at Horseshoe Bend, one of Arizona’s most photographed natural features. The viewpoint offers a dramatic view of the meandering Colorado River, carved into the sandstone cliffs. The 15-minute stop provides ample time for photos and taking in the scenery.

The journey concludes at Lees Ferry, a historic site once used as a ferry crossing and now the official starting point of the Grand Canyon. Here, the raft disembarks, and the group can appreciate the site’s historical significance before beginning the drive back to Sedona.

Logistics and Group Size Considerations

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Sedona, saving the hassle of arranging transportation. The vans used are fully climate-controlled, ensuring a comfortable journey regardless of weather conditions. The group size is limited to 12 travelers, allowing guides to provide personalized attention and answer questions thoroughly.

The tour starts early, with pickups at 6:00 am, to maximize daylight and sightseeing time. Since the trip involves long drives—around 3 hours each way—it is best suited for those comfortable with extended travel. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as some stops involve walking or hiking to petroglyph sites.

Food, Tips, and Additional Details

A lunch box is included, featuring sandwiches, snacks, and fruit. Bottled water is also provided to keep guests hydrated during the day. Review feedback suggests that lunch quality varies and some would prefer it to be kept colder or enjoyed in better shade.

Gratuities are customary, with 15-20% being typical if you enjoy the tour. Guests are responsible for bringing their own car seats or booster seats for children eight years and younger, as per Arizona law.

Seasonal Operation and Booking Tips

This seasonal tour runs exclusively from May 1st to October 1st, aligning with the best weather window for river activities and scenic drives. Due to its popularity, booking at least three months in advance is recommended. If weather conditions are poor, the trip may be canceled, but a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

Final Thoughts on the Colorado River Float Trip

This full-day experience offers a well-rounded look at northern Arizona’s natural and cultural highlights. The relaxing float on calm waters combined with scenic drives and cultural stops makes this trip appealing for those who prefer a gentle adventure over adrenaline-pumping activities.

While the long drive times may feel tiring, the stunning scenery, informative guides, and opportunity to see petroglyphs and Horseshoe Bend make the journey worthwhile. The smaller group size enhances the experience, allowing for more meaningful interactions with guides and fellow travelers.

This tour provides a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and relaxation, suitable for visitors seeking a peaceful yet enriching day exploring Glen Canyon and the surrounding sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children eight years and older can participate, but they must provide their own car seats or booster seats as required by Arizona law.

What is included in the lunch?
A lunch box with sandwiches, snacks, and fruit is provided, along with bottled water for hydration.

How long is the drive from Sedona to Page?
The round-trip drive lasts around 6 hours, with approximately 3 hours each way. The drive is part of the experience, passing scenic areas like the Painted Desert and San Francisco Volcanic Field.

What should I bring for the petroglyph hike?
Comfortable walking shoes and some extra layers of clothing are recommended, especially in Spring and Fall. The hike is generally easy but involves some walking to access the petroglyph sites.

Can I swim during the float?
Yes, there is time to swim in the Colorado River waters, which are chilly but refreshing on a warm day.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience with guides.