Colorado River & Trail Expeditions

Take time to reflect and enjoy the moment.

The river is always moving, but every now and then it’s worth slowing down and taking it all in. The sound of the water, the warmth of the sun, the canyon walls, and the people sharing the journey.

Some of the best memories aren’t made in the rapids—they happen in the quiet moments between them.

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The lower flows this season have brought a silver lining—some incredible camps are emerging throughout the Grand Canyon. 🏕️

Wide sandy beaches, expansive views, and room to truly settle into camp are appearing in places that have been underwater for years. After a day navigating technical rapids and exploring side canyons, there’s nothing quite like kicking back on a fresh stretch of sand beneath towering canyon walls.

Every river season is different, and this year the Colorado is revealing a side of the Grand Canyon that many boaters might get to see more of in coming years.

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A rare treat in Cataract Canyon—an evening at Brown Betty Beach.

Soft sand, towering canyon walls, and the Colorado River flowing past camp. After a day of rafting, hiking, and exploring Canyonlands, there’s nothing better than watching the light fade across the cliffs and settling in for a night under the stars.

Some camps are good. Some camps are unforgettable. Brown Betty is one of those places.

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Horn Creek Rapid at about 8,000 cfs.

Low water reveals a different side of Horn Creek. The rocks stand taller, the channels get narrower, and the moves become more technical. What looks calm from shore quickly turns into a maze of boulders, powerful currents, and precise boat handling.

Every flow tells a different story in the Grand Canyon, and at around 8,000 cfs, Horn Creek reminds us why river runners never stop paying attention.

📍Horn Creek Rapid, Grand Canyon National Park

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Hance Rapid at low water.

Just under 8,000 cfs, Hance shows its true character. The rocks that disappear at higher flows stand exposed, tightening the line and making every move count. One of the most technical rapids in the Grand Canyon, Hance is a maze of boulders, lateral waves, and powerful currents created by debris washed out of Red Canyon.

Look at all those rocks! At these flows, precision matters more than power. Every run through Hance is a reminder that the Colorado River is never quite the same twice.

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Peak 2026 flows arrived during our May 12 trip through Cataract Canyon, thanks in large part to increased releases from Flaming Gorge Dam on the Green River.

This is Capsize Rapid, a place with a fascinating history. At lower water, the rapid is a maze of exposed boulders and channels. Nearby is the famous “Hell to Pay” inscription, left by early river runners who struggled through this rugged stretch long before modern rafts and safety gear.

At higher flows like these, many of those rocks disappear beneath the river, transforming Capsize into a powerful wave train and a completely different experience.

Blue skies overhead, red rock walls all around, and the Colorado River winding through it all. Add a great group, a scenic hike, and another unforgettable day in canyon country.

Some days on the river remind you just how incredible the Colorado Plateau really is.