Whenever I tell people that I went rafting on the Colorado River they can’t believe it. They always ask, “Wasn’t that a rough ride?”
I know that they are thinking wasn’t that a rough ride for someone your age, but I simply answer no not really. I explain that we did travel through the last rapid on the river but that it was about as rough as when the water from your garden hose runs down the driveway. If you like to see fantastic scenery and wildlife, this is a trip for you.
This is a unique day trip aboard a motor-assisted raft which allows visitors to leisurely enjoy and share in the history, desert wildlife and beauty in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River. It is run by Black Canyon River Adventures and the guides as well as all the personnel were friendly, courteous and helpful.
Your day begins at the check in desk located in the Hacienda Hotel and Casino just outside of Boulder City, Nevada. The view from the hotel of Lake Mead is well worth the 25 minute drive from Las Vegas. From there you are transported to the launch site of the Hoover Dam. Not too many people see the dam from the bottom up instead of the top down. Black Canyon River Adventures has accommodated babies and great grandparents.
We learned about the history of the area, saw wildlife including the elusive Big Horn Sheep, felt the warm water of the hot springs and just kicked back and admired the beauty of nature as we floated down the crystal clear waters of the Colorado.
Half way through the trip our guide stopped for us to have a chance to swim or eat the box lunch that was provided for us. The lunch is packed in an insulated container that is yours to keep as a souvenir. The lunch includes a turkey sandwich, fruit, cookies, chips, and bottled water. If you have special diet requirements, they can accommodate, just let them know in advance. The rafts also carry extra water onboard.
We traveled about 15 miles, curving in and out of the high canyon walls and ended at Willow Beach in Arizona. We returned back on busses traveling across Hoover Dam. The trip begins around 9:30 a.m. and you are back at the hotel about 3 p.m. You will be outside for several hours. Depending on the time of year that you go it could be cool in the morning and warm up quickly. They suggest layered clothing. If you want to swim, wear your suit under your clothing. Don’t forget the hats, sunscreen; there is not much shade, and wear good walking shoes. This is not a trip for spiked heels. You will definitely want your camera.
To get to the raft there is about 500 feet of walking along a sloped path. The company will make special efforts to accommodate any limitations someone in your party may have. Keep in mind that there are no restrooms once you leave the hotel until you reach the destination in Arizona.
If you drive yourself to the Hacienda prices are Adult (16 years & older): $82.95, Child (13 - 15 years): $79.95, Child (5 - 12 years): $50.95, there is no charge for children four years and younger. There is a charge of $44 per person to be picked up at your hotel in Las Vegas. If you have several in your party, rent a car and drive to the Hacienda there are other things you can do while you are there such as see more of Hoover Dam, drive through historic Boulder City, see some of Lake Mead, just to name a few. The drive coming from the hotel down to the upper level of the dam is amazing.
Adult price includes the $3 National Park entrance fee. Any person under 16 years of age will not be charged an entrance fee. Entrance fee is waived for passengers holding National Park Passes, Golden Age, Eagle or Access passes.
If you are planning a trip to Las Vegas or Arizona it is worth saving your pennies, dimes and dollars for this trip. For more information or reservations call 800-455-3490 or visit www.blackcanyonadventures.com for more information and click on special offers for a discount.
