Grand Canyon Rafting, the Non-Motorized Way

Find Your Trip
Book Your Trip

Which Grand Canyon Trip Is Right for You?

At Canyon Explorations, every trip is non-motorized, so you experience the Canyon at nature’s pace. Choose from Hybrid Trips, All-Paddle Trips, or Specialty Trips to find the adventure that fits you.

Every Canyon Explorations journey is immersive and designed to connect you with the river, the landscape, and your fellow travelers. To make it easy to choose, we’ve outlined our three trip styles below. Whether you want variety, full paddling participation, or a themed specialty adventure, there’s a trip that fits your time, pace, and spirit.

Hybrid Trips: The Best of Every Boat

Our most popular option, Hybrid Trips let you experience all of our non-motorized boat types: oar rafts, paddle boats, dories, and inflatable kayaks (“duckies”). Switch between boats during your journey and discover the mix of challenge, comfort, and connection that feels right for you.

Mix of oar rafts, dories, paddle boats, and inflatable kayaks.
Guests can switch between boats during the trip.
Best For: Adventurers who want variety and a balance of activity + relaxation.
Book Your Hybrid Trip

All-Paddle Trips: Power Every Rapid

For fit and adventurous travelers, All-Paddle trips are fully hands-on. Every guest joins the paddling crew, working together with a guide to drive the raft through each rapid. These high-energy trips are teamwork-driven and best for those who want to stay active all day.

Every guest paddles every mile, with guides steering.
Best For: Fit, energetic travelers ready for teamwork and full participation.
Book Your Paddle Trip

Specialty Trips: Unique Ways to Experience the Canyon.

Looking for something different? Our Specialty Trips add a focused twist to the Canyon journey from hiking and stargazing to natural history and even live music. Each trip is led by expert guides who bring new perspectives to the river.

Expedition

A 16-day trek for experienced hikers ready to explore remote corners of the Canyon. Visit hidden gems best reached from the river such as Silver Grotto, Unkar Delta, and archeological sites at Nankoweap, Clear Creek, and Thunder River. Expect rugged challenges and breathtaking scenery.

Book Hikers Special

String Quartet

A 15-day journey featuring live performances by a String Quartet in the natural amphitheaters of Grand Canyon. Enjoy intimate concerts in side canyons and relaxed afternoons in camp. This unique trip combines the power of music with the beauty of the Canyon, creating a memorable experience.

Book String QUARTET SPECIAL

Botany

See the Grand Canyon in full bloom on this springtime journey led by a local botanist. Learn how to identify native plants and discover the Canyon’s distinct life zones, topography, and microclimates. Explore the intersection of culture and ecology through fascinating ethnobotany insights.

BOOK BOTANY SPECIAL

Astronomy

Discover some of the clearest skies in North America, on this astronomy-focused adventure. Experience the clarity of the Milky with professional-grade telescopes. Enjoy astrophotography sessions, stargazing, and cosmic storytelling beneath a brilliant canopy of stars.

BOOK ASTRONOMY SPECIAL

Upcoming Specialty Trips

16 Days | Oct 18 to Nov 2, 2027

Astronomy Specialty Trip

Imagine 16 days rafting through thrilling whitewater, hiking breathtaking trails, and exploring the hidden wonders of the Grand Canyon—all while gazing at some of the darkest, clearest skies on Earth. Each night, expert-led stargazing will connect you to the mysteries of the universe, blending adventure with awe in a way few ever experience.

Book Your Astronomy Trip
16 Days | April 13 to April 28, 2027

Botany / Natural History Specialty Trip

Curious about the bugs, birds, and plants you see? Natural history is the practice of paying close attention to the natural world — the oldest continuous human tradition. It helps us see our place in nature more clearly and inspires better stewardship of the Earth.
On this Grand Canyon Natural History trip, we go beyond rafting and hiking to cultivate observation and learning. With the guidance of an expert naturalist, you’ll explore the Canyon’s unique animals, plants, geology, and waterways. This is a journey of connection and discovery that deepens your sense of place in the Canyon.

Book Your Botany Trip