River Trip Comments - May 13-19, 2012

The crew consisted of Carolyn Alvord (Trip Leader), Amity Collins (Pilot), Tom Jones (Guide), Cliff Ghiglieri (guide), and Dave Cassidy (Hike In/Hike Out Guide).

"Great trip--beautiful landscape, fun time. Thanks to the Canyoneers crew for their service and hospitality and food. I will have to explain to my wife when I get back how I gained weight on a hiking and camping trip. Thanks again." -- Grayson Brewer

"Oh my gosh what a trip! Thank you thank you thank you for showing us the Grand Canyon! I still can't quite take it all in. Really and truly an incredible experience." -- Lucy Frick

"So grateful for our outstanding guides!! I've had one of the best weeks of my life--the rapids, waterfalls, the food!! (especially the M and M/pretzel combo...)...boat conversations...thank you!!!" -- Marian Frick

Colorado River and Marble Canyon (Upper Grand) [click on photo for larger version]

"This trip was something we never could have imagined even with prior literature and books on the Grand Canyon. It was fabulous!! Such a rare opportunity to really enjoy a beautiful place and great people (although sometimes we joked that we felt like we were on 'Survivor'). Wonderful guides--really made the trip. Thank you, thank you!" -- Laurie and Mike Lohr

"I've never done anything quite like this before and I doubt I will ever do something quite like this again. Amazing sights, amazing new friends, amazing food!" -- Willy Frick

"THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH!! This has been an incredible trip! Different from anything that we've ever done or will do again! I can't imagine a better way to see the canyon. Thank you for the wonderful food, stories, and history. I hope we'll be back!" -- Megan and Carlton Wilson

"Truly and genuinely, a trip of a lifetime. We will never, ever forget it. I think if our four guides could have heard all the wonderful things we said about them and how beautifully they managed us and the trip, they would blush! RAVE REVIEWS." -- Fred and Elizabeth Frick

"This was our dream trip and we were told by friends this trip was life changing. They were so right. God's hand is everywhere. The beauty of the canyon is beyond my expectations. So very nice to place home-life behind for a week and reflect on what is truly important in life. Made some wonderful new friends. Everyone had such great attitudes. We are so very grateful to the staff for all you do. We were blown away by how very hard you all work." -- Mike and Margie Wright

RESISTANCE OF STONETHE PERSISTENCE OF WATEREXISTENCE AND TIME (Haiku, 4th day)
THE JOY AND WONDERTHE SENSE OF GENUINE AWEBLUE HAVASU CREEK (Haiku, 5th day)
"The whole trip was inspiring. Your kindness and consideration was truly a gift. thank you." -- Harlan Butt

"Dear friends, Canyoneers and fellow passengers,
Our bucket list recently became shorter because we fulfilled our dream of rafting the Grand Canyon. Our friends recommended this trip and we're not exaggerating: It is a lifechanging week. This cancer survivor is very happy to be able to partake in this memorable journey. Thank you all for everything!! 
With deep gratitude from a 'little bit up the Colorado River,' from Grand Junction, Colorado." -- Gabriele Mayer-Hunke and Kyle Hunke

"This trip for me was all I hoped for and more. When I made the trip in 2004 with my beloved Blaine, I thought it would be a once in a lifetime experience, but have treasured making the journey again, with daughter Chris. I'm already looking forward to a third in a few more years with granddaughter Kestra and daughter Lynda. It defies words what it's like to be part of this canyon, awe-full and deeply inspiring. I'm so grateful to our four crew members, who are fabulous! What a privilege for all of us to be able to do this!!" -- Lorrie Peterson

"One thing that makes this trip so awesome is it gives us all an opportunity to be more full human--away from the stress and complication of 'modern life,' we are connected to one another, attending to our basic needs, connected with nature and the elements, present in the moment. Our problems, triumphs and joys are not complicated, but they are so real. THANK YOU FOR THIS!! You Canyoneers may not make much money or have many people esteem or even understand your job, but never forget that what you do is noble, extremely important, powerful and profound.
To most people, Grand Canyon is just a big, pretty hole. But down here on the river you show us that it's a living entity. It becomes deeply personal. We fall in love, and are changed forever. I, for one, am going to let it change me and hold onto the change as much as possible, as long as possible, and will see you again. 
Never forget, and Thank You!" -- Chrisophia

"Dear Carolyn, Amity, Tom, and 'Cliff-hanger',
What a wonderful experience to travel down this wonderful 'Grand Colorado River'. Thank you for sharing the stories of this canyon--of those who came before us. Thank you for sharing your stories too! We have all shared something special. Beautiful, majestic, inspiring. Even the 'Duke' has its own charm! Love the snacks; cooking was great. We'll never forget; thanks for the memories.
It was all perfect. Love and Peace." -- Pieter and Annie

River Trip Comments - May 6, 2012 All the Grand

The crew consisted of Jamie Townsend (Trip Leader), Drew Houser (Pilot), Paul McCloskey (Guide), and Justin Boyce (Guide).

"Great trip. Lots of fun, met people from all over. The crew were exceptionally comedic! Told lots of history of the canyon. Food excellent!" -- Carmel R.

Watch this amazing video from the trip by passenger Paul Boyce

"Exceeded expectations--thank you for the opportunity to make a dream come true. Great crew. Loved Jamie's stories and knowledge of the river. A perfect guide." -- Glenna M. and Derek W.


"Excellent trip and crew. The crew was very conscientious about preserving the sensitive habitat and kept us all well informed about staying on trails and not using soaps in tributaries, etc." -- Laurie N.

"Thank you so much for a wonderful trip! It's clear that the guides love the canyon, and Jamie's interest in the history of the canyon and its explorers was great to see. He's a wonderful storyteller! Food was delicious and I appreciate the accommodations made for a non meat eater." -- Amy H.


"The trip was awesome! Once in a lifetime experience made all the more memorable because of a great crew! The crew were all very professional but still great fun and had a great knowledge of the canyon and its history. Great story tellers. Food was great and the side trips were exceptional with a crew that was very concerned with everyone's safety and enjoyment. My compliments to Canyoneers for a well run operation and super staff!" -- Cathie Jackson

"Roses are red, violets are blue--oh what an awesome crew--even Drew! We had the best time ever. Thank y'all so much for everything. The crew was exceptional. The food was great. Couldn't have asked for anything more." -- John and Roberta Lawrence


"Fantabulous! This was the perfect kick-off for our summer! Drew and Jamie were excellent boatmen and I felt perfectly secure in my safety with them at the helm. Not only were all the crew professional and focused, they made the trip all that more enjoyable with their knowledge, stories and sense of humor--a lot of fun! Great job Canyoneers!" -- Lori and Larry Lemke

May 6, 2012 River Trip Comments - Upper Grand/Best of the Grand

The crew was: Brandon Green (Trip Leader), Kolby Kvam (Pilot), Jason Schaller (guide), and Dave Cassidy (Hike-in/hike-out guide).

"Dear Canyoneers, I recently returned from a 5 day trip on the Colorado River. Brandon Green was the trip leader and pilot along with Kolby and Jason. I recently retired from the hospitality industry having worked as a ski instructor and lodging manager for 35 years.


Brandon was outstanding not only as a pilot but also in the way he handled the guests' needs, feeding us excellent meals and telling stories about the history of the canyon and river rafting. You are lucky to have him working for you. Kolby was extremely well versed on the geology of the canyon. Jason worked hard as a rookie and we teased him about his big responsibility, the Duke [port-a-potty].


The people on the trip averaged 60-70 years in age, not the easiest group to keep happy. They all raved about the trip on the way back from the river. Please give my regards to the crew. I look forward to rafting with Brandon again." -- Keith Skytta


"My wife and I have participated in 'adventure' travel for the past 30 years and consider the raft trip as one of the best experiences. Our recent trip with Canyoneers far exceeded our expectations and will provide great memories for years to come.


Our first direct contact with your staff was, of course, Dave Cassidy. We realized early on that we were in good hands and would have a fine trip. Having backpacked in the canyon a number of times, we thought a guide down the Bright Angel Trail was unnecessary. However, Dave made the hike interesting with his knowledge of the geology. Additionally, we experienced some minor health problems and he was helpful and very considerate.


The boat skills of Brandon, Kolby and Jason, their culinary back-country artistry and their primar concern for our safety (and sanitation) were remarkable. Brandon's colorful and well-timed anecdotes of former canyon characters was a highlight of the trip.

We have already recommended the trip to our son and some friends and have given them the crew members' names so when they make reservations they might request the same team. [Note: whomever is the trip leader and crew, they always think they're the best of all. High praise for our river guides]


Thanks for a fine ride." -- Bob and MJ Cadieux


"Great trip, beautiful sights, great food, great friends. Was really impressed with the crew. David on the way down [hiking down on the Bright Angel Trail] was great! Brandon, Kolby and Jason made a really good team. Very knowledgeable about the canyon and river. Very friendly, made you feel very relaxed but also safe. Most important--great cooks." -- Teeter Johnson


"Was a great vacation, David our guide on the hike down was great. The trip was more than fun, it was a great experience. Brandon, Kolby, and Jason all were great, very friendly. The crew actually made the trip. Thanks for everything." -- Adam Johnson

Passenger Comments - April 28-May 7, 2012 All the Grand River trip

The crew was Carolyn Alvord (Trip Leader), Amity Collins (Pilot), and Tom Jones (Guide).

"One of the coolest trips of my life, in big part to an awesome crew! Loved every minute and will definitely be back! Thanks for a kick-ass time and life-long memories!" -- Ian Yungman

"This trip has been absolutely amazing. It has changed my idea of the Canyon in ways I can't believe. The guides have been super knowledgeable, helpful, and even courteous. Would love to do it again. Thanks for everything!" -- Dirk Dye

At Redwall Canyon, Upper Grand (click on pic for larger version)

"All the Grand was all that and a bag of chips, or peanut butter M&Ms, or any of the great snacks that were provided for us every day! The guides were wonderful and extremely knowledgeable abou the Canyon and its history. The food was epic and so were the rapids! We were blessed with amazing weather, which made the trip that much more memorable. Thanks so much and I hope to do the trip again someday." -- Skylar Feltman


"What makes 'All the Grand' an exceptional trip/experience? That's easy--the crew! It wouldn't matter what trip you're on--if it wasn't fr a good crew it could be miserable. The good: they were knowledgeable, friendly, and inclusive. The bad: NONE." -- Rud Kipling


"Canyoneers 'All the Grand' April 2012: one of the Top 10 trips of my life, and I ain't no spring chicken. Caroline, Amity and Tom were an amazing crew. Friendly, courteous, knowledgeable and unbelievably helpful. Thank you for all your wisdom and stories." -- Tres Feltman


"The Grand Canyon is awesome in itself, and the crew made this river trip exceptionally awesome. They were always professional, very helpful and made you feel special. I fee very lucky to have been a part of very special people. Their knowledge of the canyon was impressive. Carolyn is a great storyteller!" -- Joan Valentine


"My Grand Canyon Adventure is ending, but this trip will stay with me forever. Great crew, great mates, great food!! The stories we heard were exciting, some heartbreaking! I plan to read more about this special place. And recommend this trip to everyone!" -- Candace (Candy) Murr


"My first time 'in' the Grand Canyon and it was amazing!! Everything was great! The weather, the food, the stories and the crew were a perfect mix. The people were a good meld and we all got along because we were all having such a good time. Thank you." -- John Kimmel


"Carolyn, Amity, Tom, you really MADE this trip. You guys are amazingly hard and steadfast workers, great cooks, knowledgeable guides and very easy to get along with. The canyon itself put me into sensory overload with its sheer natural majesty, but your stories and running commentaries filled in the whole picture. Thanks and I'll try to be back next year with my daughter." -- Jim Dye


"I wish I had made the trip earlier in life but I wouldn't have been able to enjoy the 19 other passengers and crew because they would have been mere kids. I enjoyed the camaraderie with all co-canyoneers and would be delighted if we were to get together again." -- Glen Shipley

Passenger Comments - April 22-28, 2012 All the Grand River Trip

The crew was Brandon Green (Trip Leader), Jamie Townsend, and Drew Houser.

"My second trip with Canyoneers: 1988 and 2012. You run a first class operation--my three sons and I along with 11 of their friends and business associates thank you for a special week--memories, memories, memories." -- Dick Neal

"Great trip! Boatmen were first class, food was great, camps were scenic. Didn't want to leave. Thanks for all the hard work!" -- Ron and Debbie Kaiser


"Great week, great crew. Canyoneers is the only way I will raft the Canyon. Thanks for an outstanding trip!" -- Chuck Tautfest


"Great trip, weather, crew and fun. Most relaxing, easygoing trip I have ever been on. It was truly peaceful and serene. I have never been on a trip that everyone got along so well. I look forward to bringing my family next time." -- Keith Trzecki

"I had been surfing for many years looking for an outfitter for a Grand Canyon trip knowing the outcome of the trip was largely in control of the outfitter. I cannot be more pleased with the performance of the guides on the trip. Well done. The food was good and the campsites were appropriate...To my new and old friends on this trip 'Cheers'. It was a hell of a ride." -- Bradley Dean


"Outstanding trip and a great group of people. I will definitely be doing this again with my family. Brandon, Jamie, and Drew did a great job and kept us entertained." -- Steve Carroll


"This trip was a great thrill. I'll never forget Hance, Crystal, and Lava Falls rapids. We were blessed to have three experienced and terrific guides. They were entertaining, resourceful, good cooks, and made everything look easy." -- Craig Wessels


"Didn't know what to expect heading in as this was my first trip to see the Grand Canyon. What a way to see it! Had a fantastic time! Drew, Brandon, and Jamie did an outstanding job." -- Chance Montgomery


"I rode through the Grand Canyon with Canyoneers back in 1988. This trip was the 'Advance Team' prior to a family trip in 2016. What a great trip with friends and co-workers. Brandon is a top-shelf Captain--he made it look easy. Drew and Jamie were just as capable and the three of them worked well together. Thanks for the memories and see you again in a few years." -- Charles Neal


"First let me say thanks to 'White Lightning' [the boat], the ole girl held strong in some tough seas. Then let me say thanks to the crew! Brandon, Jamie, and Drew are 'world class' boatmen; never once did I feel we were close to [having a rapid or rock named after us]. To new friends, old friends, and especially my family, we made memories and told stories that I will never forget. Canyoneers is the best. See you in 2016!" -- Richard Neal


"What an awesome week we had. Drew, Jamie, and Brandon first and foremost kept us safe, while providing a first class, professionally run river trip. Plenty of fun, spectacular hikes through the side canyons, creeks, and rivers. Had great food to boot. I can't wait to come again and bring the rest of my family." -- Jim Stegeman

Last Minute River Trip Special! May 6-12, 2012 -- Over 50% Off!

Canyoneers has four last minute cancellations due to illness on the trip leaving Flagstaff this coming weekend, May 6. If you can be to Flagstaff Saturday evening, May 5th, you can make it, and for an incredible price!

The trip is the full Grand Canyon by motorized pontoon raft. It's 7 days, 6 nights--Flagstaff to Flagstaff.We depart Flagstaff by bus early Sunday morning May 6th. Everything is included from Flagstaff back to Flagstaff.

The regular price is $2395 per person. We are offering these spaces at $1,000 per person (more than half off). If you can take advantage of this last minute special, please call Sheri or Steve at Canyoneers ASAP at 800-525-0924 or 928-525-0924. If you cannot go but know someone who can, please pass the word!

The 2012 River Season Begins!

Our first Grand Canyon river trip of the 2012 season launched from Lees Ferry on the Colorado River on Sunday, April 22. The Trip Leader was Brandon Green. Jamie Townsend and Drew Houser round out this intrepid crew. 


The weather at launch was perfect: unseasonably warm for April, sunny, with light breezes. Glorious.


This trip is one of our two "Spring in the Grand" All the Grand 7-day motorized trips of the entire Grand Canyon, from Lees Ferry to the Pearce Ferry landing on upper Lake Mead near Meadview, Arizona. This trip is full, as is our other Spring in the Grand trip launching on April 28.


Lees Ferry is one of the most spectacular locations in the American Southwest. With the Vermilion Cliffs to the west, the Echo Cliffs to the east, and the Colorado River between them, it's a photographic treat.


Just downstream from the landing where the boats launch is the Paria Beach parking lot. A short walk to the river's edge allows you to watch the boats gently bouncing down the Paria Riffle, which is too small to be a rapid, but is a very photogenic location for having some whitewater in the picture. 


Only 277 river miles and seven days left for the passengers and crew after this point....


-- Posted by Steve Krieg