River Trip Comments: July 2012 CanyonOars Oar Trip

Canyoneers crew and passengers unloading the boats at the Diamond Creek take-out site
(click on photo for larger version)

The crew were: Cliff Ghiglieri (Trip Leader), Jamie Townsend (Guide), Jacob Snyder (Guide), Ethan Dyer (Guide), Jason Schaller (Guide), Greg Reiff (Guide/the Sandra), and Kolby Kvam (Hike In/Hike Out Guide)

"An all star crew, headed by Cliff. We were lucky to be surrounded by a team of Crew Leaders -- Jamie, Jake, and Greg! Experience, knowledge, and camaraderie was prevalent throughout the trip. 'Sandra' was the best! Greg is a great orator. Jake and Jamie kept the mood light and Cliff got us home. Best in all you do. A memorable life experience. Great guitar in the canyons!" -- Dave D. 

Trip Leader Cliff Ghiglieri approaches the landing at Diamond Creek at trip's end.

"A most excellent river trip. I had a wonderful time. The guides were great. I will not forget riding the Sandra and doing the 'fish eye'. Cowabunga! Greg was fabulous. Folk lore, the Nevills, very fun. Thank you kindly from an experienced traveler and camper." -- Robert R.

The Sandra at the Diamond Creek take-out point
(click on photo for larger version)

"When we decided to book a trip in the Canyon, we knew we wanted an oar trip. We had a few companies to choose from. When I read about the Sandra I immediately booked that trip. My experience on the Sandra was really special. Hearing the story about it was heart felt. That little wooden boat is really admired by other river companies. I noticed it when they were scouting rapids. They would say, 'That is really cool, are you going to run that through the rapids?' All your employees -- Ethan, Jason, Greg, Cliff, Jake, and Jamie -- made us feel safe and like family." -- Joe R. 

"A wonderful, beautiful adventure with great guides. I loved hearing about geology and history of the Canyon as well as the story of the Sandra, which was a treat. All guides were helpful and accommodating, and especially appreciated Cliff's guitar and guidance. Jake's guitar, singing, and passion for the river. Greg's stories and helpfulness, Jamie's humor and calm, and Ethan and Jason's help always making camp as comfortable as possible. The food was great! I will remember canyon walls, the stars, waterfalls and, yes, the rain." -- Joan D.

Jamie, Jake, and Ethan approach the Diamond Creek
take-out point at the end of the trip

"Thank you so much for everything! I wish it wasn't ending tomorrow. I will miss you all. I didn't know what to expect, I wasn't expecting much. But by the last night here I feel so sad because I don't want it to be over yet. Jamie took us on a side hike to show us pictographs and talk about Indian tribes today, that was very interesting to learn about. Jake was so down to Earth and fun to ride with. Greg had an amazing boat called the Sandra, and it was such an experience to ride. Jason and Ethan were such sweet boys. Cliff, I really enjoyed all your information about the Grand Canyon. I really enjoyed talking about music and such with you. You are truly one of a kind and will be missed." -- Heather R.

Greg Reiff oars the Sandra to the beach at Diamond Creek, with Peter and Daiton celebrating their last few moments aboard.

"I came here to ride the Sandra, and ride I did. It was one of the most wildest things I have ever done. Thanks, Greg, for all the wonderful things you did to keep our spirits up, and all the information about the Canyon you gave us. Keep the Sandra alive!! Thanks to Cliff and crew and all you did." -- Daiton R.

Peter and Daiton step off the Sandra one last time,
at the Diamond Creek take-out point.

"Lost my camera on day one. Broke my reading glasses on day two, and probably broke a bone in my foot on day three. Yet this place is magical and mystical. The power of the river and beauty of the canyons cannot be underestimated. To travel through this environment on a piece of Canyon history (a.k.a. the Sandra) was an experience I will not forget." -- Peter E.


"Thanks for it all! Joan said it well last night: your passion for the Grand is evident and was throughout the trip. Among my highest highlights was my day on the Sandra. Jaynie was disappointed that I deferred riding Lava [Falls Rapid], but we had more than a few good rides during our turn. I will always remember this trip and each of you. See you down the road, or the river, as it may be. Thanks again for everything! My best to each of you." -- Walt D.

Greg Reiff cleans the Sandra at the take-out point at Diamond Creek

"To the men-in-flip-flops: What a great trip! I didn't know what to expect, and am still amazed at all we did. Not only was it a great ride down a spectacular river, it was a truly special experience each day, thanks to your stories both personal and historic, your knowledge of the geology and science, and your obvious love for this wonderful place. I hope we meet again -- I wouldn't choose any other outfit but the Men In Flip Flops / Canyoneers!" -- Jaynie D.

Monsoon Rainbow, Flagstaff

Clearing storm and double rainbow, from Canyoneers office, Flagstaff, Arizona
(click on image for larger version)

We are presently in the heart of our late summer "monsoon" thunderstorm season here in northern Arizona. Moisture from the Pacific Ocean comes inland, and our hot August weather and ample sunshine combine to form thunderhead clouds, which can cause very localized rain showers. 

Besides being the primary source of the Southwest's summertime precipitation, it's also a gorgeous time for nature lovers. Arizona blue sky, dramatic cumulus and thunderhead clouds, rain curtains, and sunshine can sometimes be seen all at once. Grass and other ground plants sprout, greening the forests and rangeland. 

And the rain showers usually are brief, though sometimes intense. They are what flash floods can be borne of.

River Trip Comments: August 5-11 All the Grand, Upper Grand, Best of the Grand

Wading lower Havasu Creek's famous turquoise waters in lower Grand Canyon
(click on image for larger version)

The crew were: Drew Houser (Trip Leader), John Crowley (Pilot), Cliff Ghiglieri (Guide), Omar Martinez-Lezama (Guide), Ethan Dyer (Guide), and David Cassidy (Hike In/Out Guide).

"A great adventure. Surpassed my expectations. Wonderful memories, beyond the excitement of the rapids: full moon risings, enthralling hikes. Drew and crew were great guides, hosts, and entertainers. Look forward to the next one!" -- David M.

"Thank you so much for a wonderful adventure. A great escape from the world -- magical hikes -- truly amazing." -- Briony W.


"Thank you, Canyoneers, for the trip of my dreams! I had no idea how moving this experience would be. If I'd known that around every bend would await heart-stopping beauty and unforgettable grandeur, I would have come to this river, and the rocky palace it flows through, sooner! Normally, blisters, scratches, sunburns received at the beach, on the golf course, or in other leisurely pursuits are annoyances. But here they are reminders of a blue heron on the wing, a peregrine falcon gliding above the river, and an unconformity that boggles the mind. But enough about beauty and majestic views. Let's talk about people.

The crew were F-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C. Drew is a born leader -- was surprised to learn this was his first time leading a trip. But the way the crew all worked together to make sure our safety and comfort were paramount was terrific. They were all unfailingly calm, competent, kind, respectful, and showed great good humor and patience. Without them I wouldn't have been able to enjoy this trip as much as I did. You guys rocked." -- Anne S.


"I have not slept well in over a week, there is dirt and oil ground into the scalp, my nails are shredded, my feet are aching, my husband smells and if I have to hear him complain about his back for one more day I might scream. Yet none of this matters because we just had the best trip we've ever experienced, anywhere. The beauty, awesome power of nature and magnificence of the Grand Canyon was enough to blow our expectations out of the water.

However, the crew we had brought everything together to seamlessly amplify all of our experiences. Drew, thank you for helping me hike when I was really scared. Cliff, thank you for stimulating my mind with all your knowledge of the Canyon, the desert, and sciences. John, I'd never jump your ship -- and if I had to I am confident you'd fish me out! Omar, all inspirational, my friend!" -- Jennifer T.

"I did the lower Grand last year and it was an unbelievable experience for me -- spiritually, physically, and emotionally. I couldn't wait to come back. I really can't put my experience of the Canyon into words, as I came by myself this year and did the full Grand. The crew were incredible. I had some difficulties and they were supportive and attentive to my needs. The crew were very professional, kept safety a priority and made the trip a fun, educational and adventuresome experience. We could not have been with a better crew. Drew was an excellent leader. Food was fantastic again. It was another magical experience for me. I would highly recommend Canyoneers to everyone!" -- Mary Lou R.

"Before I arrived here I was a lone wolf. There was just one in my wolf pack. Me. But now there are 26 more in my wolf pack. I am no longer a lone wolf. 

This trip was unbelievable! Everything I witnessed was far beyond my imagination. The Canyon is an incredible place full of hidden gems. Some of the places like Deer Creek were incredible; I don't think I have ever appreciated somewhere so much.

I got to meet great people who were both fascinating and funny. All of the guides were great and very professional. There is no doubt that I will return within the next few years..." -- Mark M.

"We came on this trip to hopefully experience a beautiful break from our busy city lifestyles and experience one of the greatest wonders of the world. You guys helped turn this into one of the greatest trips of our lives! You kept things fun and entertaining, while instilling confidence in your abilities to navigate through this wonderful place safely. The food was well prepared and delicious, the rapids were fantastic, and the guitar playing added the perfect touch. It truly felt like we were blessed with the best the Canyon has to offer." -- Kevin and Krista

"This trip was fantastic. At first I was unsure, not knowing the exact itinerary and how things were going to play out. But as things unfolded it got better and better. The crew was unbelievable! All were very professional and extremely hard workers. I want to thank them for making even the boring stuff really fun and light-hearted.

The hikes and side trips were amazing. Drew couldn't have picked three better spots. We were always first there and got to go to all the best areas, all thanks to Drew and the crew. Couldn't have been a better group, crew, or trip. Thanks so much!" -- Rees B.

"The trip was fantastic. Having done the lower portion in 1992 and having hiked all over the Canyon (I'm a Grand Canyon addict), I felt I knew what to expect and this trip did not disappoint. The 7-day canyon trip was simply wonderful, with the great and professional crew, the delicious meals, the magnificent scenery, exciting rapids, and most enjoyable hikes. I will highly recommend Canyoneers and I hope to return again." -- Tom S. 

River Trip Comments, July 1 and 2, 2012 All the Grand, Upper Grand and Best of the Grand with Phantom Ranch

The Colorado River at Lees Ferry, where all Grand Canyon boats put in to the river
(click on photo for larger version)

The crew were: Jake Snyder (Trip Leader), Jamie Townsend (Pilot), Kolby Kvam (Guide), Ethan Dyer (Guide), and David Cassidy (Hike In/Hike Out Guide).


"Really great trip. I didn't think I would enjoy this trip, but I loved it! The guides were what made it fun, and the side hikes were great as well. Thank you, guides; you're awesome." -- Maria, age 14

"The trip was well planned. Your crew really did excel. I could ask for nothing better. The boats were far better than those I saw on the river. The crew were very professional and kind of humorous. I would highly recommend Canyoneers to anyone. Thanks for the wonderful time." -- Larry H. 


"What a great trip! The guides were excellent. They were very professional yet were still able to have fun and it made the trip more enjoyable for all of us. I was also impressed with all of the planning that went into the boat layout and how efficiently all of the stops and setting up and breaking down camp went. All this made it surprisingly comfortable and relaxing. Again, awesome trip." -- Kevin and Shelby T.


"Last day, with really is the only bad thing about the whole trip. I would swim back from New Zealand for another opportunity to do this wonderful river. But one thing: make sure you look after your guides. They are as precious as the canyon they love." -- Tim M.


"Loved everything about the trip. The hike in and Phantom Ranch and every site, hike, and camp. The guides made it all work. Thanks Jake, Kolby, Jamie, and Ethan. Their attitude and LOVE of the Canyon shows. Loved the stories and geology lessons. The sense of community was a lovely bonus. Thanks for every thing." --Christy M.


"Awesome trip. I had never camped and was nervous. I had a great time. I felt at home with the staff like they are my brothers. Can't believe the things we saw." -- Sarah G.


"Awesome trip. The guides made this trip happen! Loved and appreciated their knowledge, humor, and the safety of taking care of us. Lots of great stories when not hiking or swimming. This trip taught me more about myself in a week than any I could imagine...all because of Jamie, Kolby, Jake and Ethan keeping what this experience is all about! Love you guys." -- Judy C.


"We wanted a honeymoon trip that we would never forget and we sure got one. Thanks for making our introduction to Grand Canyon so memorable and smooth. The memories will be with both of us forever!" -- Steve and Sarah G.


"Before I left for this trip, I had friends back home saying they would pray for me, and they looked worried. That, plus the fact that I had to sign all those papers freeing you of any liability in case something happened, had me a little nervous and worried. That worrying was all for nothing because the crew made all those rapids look easy. Very professional crew and great food. Had a great time but I am ready for a bath/shower." -- Faye F.


"Thank you for looking after us. Taking care of our needs meant we were able to stay sharp and alert. The leadership skills from the outset set a platform of security and respect. Jake and Jamie and Kolby were excellent storytellers and they generously shared their passion as skilled boatmen who love this Canyon. [They] are suited to this place -- they have big hearts and no egos. Their gags made this trip fantastic. It ain't glamping, but I am pleased it was so basic, as only when those red ants are nibbling away, the sand is blowing in your face by the unwelcome hot wind and the stars are smiling, I felt the force of nature pulling at my heart. Wonderful trip -- the guides are my stars." -- Helen R.

June 2012 Oar Trip Comments - CanyonOars All the Grand, Upper Grand, Best of the Grand

Tom Myers, Jason Hughes, and John Crowley at Lees Ferry (click on photo for larger)

The crew were: Amity Collins (Trip Leader), John Crowley (Trip Leader - Upper Grand), Greg Reiff (Guide), Cliff Ghiglieri (Guide), Tom Myers, M.D. (Guide), Jason Hughes (Guide), Paul McCloskey (Guide), Carolyn Alvord (Guide), Tom Jones (Guide), Omar Martinex-Lezama (Hiking Guide)

"As first time hikers, rafters, and campers you can imagine the excitement and anxiety as our trip approached. Once we met up with you all at the end of Bright Angel Trail the anxiety was gone and the excitement rose exponentially. Throughout the trip your technical expertise and prowess were exemplary. The overwhelming care and kindness that you showed everyone, however, was the true gem for our family. You all truly care about the people you are with and that is what made this our best family vacation to date. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!" -- Juan, Stephanie, and Spencer A. 

The historic Nevills cataract boat (1947) the Sandra

"Another amazing journey with you and your crew! All your hard work and organized way of getting a group down river makes a Canyoneers trip an incredible way to explore this beautiful place. Now that we've covered the whole river, its time to think about other ways to experience the Canyon -- and that we will, thanks to the introduction you have given us over the past few years. To a person, this Canyoneers team was as good as it gets. All aspects of the trip were well planned and perfectly executed. Thank you all for a great experience that none of us will soon forget!" -- Ned H.

Sunset at Lees Ferry on the Colorado River

"Amity, what a thrill to be part of your first trip as Trip Leader. Your professionalism, skill as a boatman, and leadership as well as your tolerance for our gang of teenage boys made for another unforgettable Canyoneers experience. I so appreciate how you engaged the kids in the trip and gave them somewhat of a working knowledge of the river. Your competence made for an exciting adventure without ever compromising safety. Having the Sandra along was an extra special treat. What a way to experience a part of river history and lore, firsthand, on our 25th anniversary to boot! No. 26 is bound to be a letdown. I envy all the future passengers who will experience a trip with you and this special crew. Many thanks to:

• Cliff for his dry wit, gentle demeanor, and deep knowledge of the Canyon. Thank you for sharing your music and guitar.
• Greg for his not so dry wit, earnestness, knowledge of beavers and always declaring the parents victors in the water fights! Thanks also for bringing the Sandra.
• Dr. Tom for teaching me to row and believing in my abilities.
• Jason for the ever present twinkle in his eye and the pranks he pulled on the boys. Next time I hope he'll teach me how to stand on my head.
• Tom Jones for his gentle demeanor, wonderful voice, and for being so efficient setting up the Duke.
• Paul for providing a new imaginative game every night that kept us laughing and brought the kids and adults together.
• Carolyn -- The mother of the mothership -- who watched over all of us with a constant smile on her face and found us a few more beers when we ran out.

Wishing you many more years of successful trips and glorious white water!" -- Polly H.

John, Paul, and Carolyn rig up the motor support boat at Lees Ferry

"Amity, we head back to our crazy lives, sandy and weary. But filled with the wonder of the river, the awe of the Canyon, and the enduring memory of 9 amazing days. The trip was flawless. Thank you for the thrills and adventures, the laughs, the games, the expertise and compassion of all the crew and for rock start treatment. Thanks also for showing our boys a 'crazy good time'. We feel honored to have had the Sandra with us -- an added dimension to the trip. Thank you for a wonderful family adventure -- truly a trip of a lifetime! Good luck to all." -- Karen, Paul, Jack, and Peter

"Dear Amity, thank you for a wonderful experience I was able to share with my grandsons, Zach and Cortez. After a rough start down, with Omar's help, and my 'bail-out' in Crystal, I feel like a Canyoneers Veteran. This trip will be in my memories for the rest of what I hope is a very long life. P.S. Kudos to the fun and professional crew." -- Bill C.

"This was my third trip. Every trip surpasses the last. I keep coming back to travel with Canyoneers because of the staff and the Sandra. I hope to return in two years for my 70th birthday." -- Adrienne

Vermilion Cliffs sunset reflection on the Colorado River,  Lees Ferry

"This was my second fabulous trip with Canyoneers. I completed the upper part in 2008 with a friend, celebrating her 60th birthday. We hiked out the Bright Angel Trail. I left with a yearning to see the rest of the Canyon. This trip, with the hike down Bright Angel, completed that trip for me. My first experience with Canyoneers was fabulous. It is the reason I chose Canyoneers for this trip. The quality of the crew (their knowledge of both the river and the Canyon and canyon safety, as well as their great attitudes), make the trip incredibly enjoyable and informative. Two characteristics that set Canyoneers apart from other trips, in my opinion, are the inclusion of Sandra on the oar trips, and the attention to safety of customers on the hikes in and out. The Sandra (and Greg) brings a sense of history and adventure that cannot be found in other tours. The attention to customer safety on the hikes assures that what we have chosen as an adventure doesn't become a disaster. Many thanks to the many people on the crew and at Canyoneers who made this adventure possible. I have already recommended this trip to many friends and colleagues. Three have already participated in one of your trips." -- Cherie K. 

"Amity and all your team -- This has been a life changing experience for myself in so many ways! I walked into the Canyon with my friend Cherie and two thirds of the way down was overcome by heat, drop in elevation, and fainted. Omar took wise care of me and was patient and confident in helping to guide us further down the path, and took my backpack with his. We made it down! I thought all was great but the heat, electrolytes being thrown off made me dehydrated and out of it. Nurse Carolyn and Tom took gentle and professional care of me, as did Dr. Tom, who found the magic cure: beef bullion! It fixed me mostly right up! I so enjoyed every crew member -- their incredible intuitive teamwork and support and respect of each other. Every day was a paradise and adventure in itself, and the crew coached us into reaching our full potential into uncomfortable, stretching experiences which ultimately change us internally and externally in our ability to help others reach further in their lives. Lastly, I got to ride the Sandra on the last day of the trip with Greg and my friend Cherie. Based on my sick beginnings I was apprehensive to ride it, but day 8 what a chance to experience something again out of my comfort zone. Well, what a ride it was! The rapids were much more exciting than one could have ever anticipated -- what an adrenaline rush riding the Sandra was, and we were so prepared for the worst with Greg, but it didn't happen. We had an incredible and wild ride and rush with a 3-some team! Thank you so much for bringing the Sandra and so enhancing the rapids and trip riding option. Having the Sandra truly sets your company apart from others, with the legacy and history it is so unique and special! 

Thank you to all the crew, love to you all! Amity, the beautiful fearless leader; Tom, the big boatman, and Carolyn, the jack (angel) of all trades; Cliff, master singer, storyteller, dry sense of humor; Jason, calm, funny, always watching out; Paul, quiet and kind and very welcoming; Tom, the Doc, the great discusser and great sense of humor, especially as related to his buddy Greg, who has the history, passion, and great stories. So thank you again for your love of the river, expertise with rowing and scoping out the river and joy in sharing your knowledge and skills! Have a great rest of the season and good luck in the future!" -- Suzanne P.

"To the crew, thank you very much, this being my fourth trip speaks for itself. You guys did a great job. See you in the summer of 2013." -- Joe D.


"Jeff and I thank you for a wonderful vacation. This vacation is special because we were here to celebrate our 50th birthdays and 30 year marriage. The trip exceeded our expectations!

Sunshine ripples on the Colorado River

The crew was wonderful! They were professional, always protective of our safety. We are also appreciative of the wonderful stories of the Canyon. They brought the trip to life. Thanks for the special attention you gave to my interest in geology. This made the trip more special. Also, thanks to Tom with his assistance with Jeff's foot trouble. Wishing you all the fulfillment of your hopes and dreams." -- Jeff and Lori V.


"To the crew: As we descended down the ramp at Lees Ferry with excitement and many unknowns you made us feel welcome and at ease immediately. We knew we were crossing off one of our big vacations from the to-do list and are so glad we chose Canyoneers. The entire crew brought different perspectives and expertise along with a great attitude. We quickly got on river time and forgot what day it was, even. We are so glad we chose to do the entire trip instead of wondering what the other half was like [actually, the Upper Grand is one third of the total length, the lower ('Best of the Grand') is two thirds of Grand Canyon]. 


The food was amazing and we can hardly wait to try some new things in the dutch oven next time we go camping. We loved all the stories and the camaraderie amongst the crew. Thanks for Cliff and Paul for the great stories and hikes they led with Tom and the gang assisting us over the rock.

Tom Myers and Greg Reiff

Amity always found the big wave; it may be a little splashy! Greg and Tom brought so much fun and expertise with Greg's river history and thanks to Tom for helping keep us healthy. Kudos to Jason as he always went out of his way to make sure we were all set and had whatever needed, even taking Lori on little specialty hikes. Carolyn was always there for us, helping with drinks, shoes, and everything else needed. This is a trip we will never forget, and was even better than imagined, thanks to the crew. It was great to share this two weeks with all of you and feel you love of this very special place.


As we approach Pearce Ferry, we will miss all of you and the River Time we shared." -- Jeff and Lori V.


There is still limited seating on the July 19 and August 30 Upper Grand oar trips! 

After the Hike: Bright Angel Trailhead Celebration

Last week my family and I participated in the Canyoneers Upper Grand rafting/hiking trip.  What an amazing trip!  From the beginning to the very end everything was perfect.  

Our river guides, Drew, Brandon, Justin and Jason were the very best and skilled river guides.  They all had great senses of humor, were well informed on Canyon history, were extremely helpful to all of us, as well as being excellent chefs! They made everyone feel very comfortable on the trip and made sure everyone was safe.  It was a great pleasure to be a part of their excursion and I will recommend Canyoneers to anyone looking for a similar trip in the Grand Canyon.  Our hiking guide, Dave [front row, far left], was equally wonderful and took great care to make sure all hikers were well equipped and could complete the hike to the South Rim.

Here is a photo of the three families and our guide, Dave Cassidy, who all hiked from Phantom Ranch to the South Rim.

What an incredible experience!  Thank you to all who made it such a wonderful trip!

Fondly,

Sue Thiele

River Trip Comments: June 24/25, 2012 All the Grand, Upper Grand and Best of the Grand with Phantom Ranch

Grand Canyon river trip cooking -- no wonder they call our river guides chefs!

"You gave a family of 12 a super vacation and the services, food, congeniality made a memory neve to be forgotten. We also thank you for not throwing any of us overboard. Perhaps not quite the Lewis and Clark of former years, but we will boast back in the 'world' of being intrepid adventurers." -- David and Janice B.


"What a fantastic trip! When I went down the Canyon in 1977, I thought that trip could not be matched, but it was, by a long shot. Getting to see my children enjoy everything along the river, the rapids, that osprey catch the trout, the Little Colorado, and all the interaction with the crew -- it was priceless! Thank you Brandon, Jason, Justin, and Drew -- you guys were what made this trip what it was. You're the best!" -- Russell B.

"Thank you Brandon, Jason, Justin, and Drew for making a most wonderful transformative trip down the Colorado River. My kids and I were a little scared, and it is because of your kindness, humor, and professionalism that we had the most wonderful, magical time! We were so lucky to experience and appreciate Grand Mother Nature at her best with you all shepherding us through with JOY! Evermore thanks! You've changed a family for the better. Keep it up! With great admiration and affection -- and laughs." -- Darra B.


"Thank you for a spectacular family vacation along the 280-mile long Grand Canyon. Our two boys will have memories to last a lifetime. Brandon (Trip Leader) and Drew became 'idols' to the boys. A true testament to a successful trip is our boys wanted to become 'boatmen' when they grow up. Jason was fabulous and very accommodating during our day rides. He entertained us and was a wealth of knowledge. Justin is a tremendous worker and an all-around great boatman. Drew, the 'class clown', livened up the group during his evening serenades and storytelling. And last but not least is Brandon. Words can't describe him. He is fabulous and a top-notch boatman. His passion for his job is evident in his knowledge [of the Canyon]. His demeanor was always positive, and safety was his number one priority! That was the most important and treasured quality of a true boatman. The second most important quality is his storytelling. My boys, and us, learned so much about the Grand Canyon that cannot be learned by classroom textbooks. We are leaving the Canyoneers trip with a huge respect for the Grand Canyon and the explorers who ventured out in the early expeditions. The outdoor living for a week was tremendously humbling and gave us all an appreciation for the lives we live. The entire team was always working and carrying the heavy lifting to make our trip enjoyable. They are truly the reason that made this 7-day trip a huge success! Thank you for the memories, the quality family time, the experience -- it was amazing -- both good and bad -- all amazing. Thank you, thank you, thank you." -- Shane, Barbara, Eric, and Ryan B.


"The Best of the Grand with Phantom Ranch was just that -- the best. Starting with David, who guided us down the Bright Angel Trail, to Brandon, Drew, Justin, and Jason, who showed their skill and expertise in taking us down the river. All of the guides were hard working and willing to do what it took to make this a memorable trip for us all." -- Cody V. 

Cooking supper on the beach, 2010. Notice the mesh nets underneath the tables to catch any food scraps and so keep the beach clean.

"Grand adventure at its best. The professional staff and delicious food were only surpassed by the beauty of the Canyon! Each day was special -- loved not only the rapids but the side trips were a treat! An experience our family will not forget. Thanks!" -- Cheryl C.


"This trip far exceeded any and all of my expectations! All of the crew were terrific, professional, and accommodating at all times. Would always recommend Canyoneers. Thanks for a most memorable trip for our family." -- Ken C.


Contributed by Steve Krieg, Canyoneers Reservations Assistant