Enjoy the thrills of white water rafting in the Grand Canyon
For a truly thrilling America travel experience, the Grand Canyon is one destination you simply must visit. While exploring the ravine by foot is sure to be an exciting prospect in itself, for a real adventure why not go white water rafting along it?
Over a period spanning millions of years, the Colorado River carved through many layers of rock in the region, creating one of the most astounding geological landmarks on the planet in the process.
As it is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, you can be confident of seeing some amazing scenery upon coming here. While many who come to visit the canyon view it by looking downwards from either the North or South Rim, by hopping in a boat to go rafting along the river you'll be able to experience it from an entirely different perspective.
Booking Grand Canyon rafting trips can make for a fantastic adventure activity and, in certain places along the river, you will get to experience the thrill of negotiating class IV rapids.
This is one of the highest categories of white water, so as you follow the river you can expect to encounter medium-sized waves and some sizeable drops, in what is bound to be an exciting experience. However, there will also be the chance to enjoy paddling along more serene waters.
As the Grand Canyon is some 277 miles long, you can be sure there will be plenty of variety in your rafting adventure.
Of course, you'll be fully kitted out in protective equipment - including helmets and lifejackets - so you can rest assured you will be safe while taking part in this exciting activity.
While the main focus of a rafting trip along the canyon will of course be on boating, this is certainly not the only fun pursuit you will be able to take part in during your adventure break.
Upon mooring up your raft on the shores of the river, you'll be able to go a refreshing swim in one of the many side canyons to be found here.
There is plenty to do on dry land too, and going on a hike will provide you with the opportunity to see the canyon's varied terrain up close.
One unmistakable highlight of your adventure holiday along the Grand Canyon will be the Redwall Cavern. This limestone cave is so big that you'll have plenty of space to be able to play Frisbee or game of softball.
You should also look to hike along the Nankoweap trail, which is situated along the North Rim. Although this is often regarded as being one of the most challenging walks in the entire Grand Canyon, trekking along it will be worth the effort and in doing so you will get the chance to see wonderful Native American ruins.
Other highlights include Stanton's Cave and Saddle Canyon. The picturesque lagoon of Vasey's Paradise can also be explored, although you will need to keep an eye out for the poison ivy that grows here.
As the evening draws in, you'll be able to take in wonderful views of the sun setting over towering rock formations from your camp base in the depths of the canyon. Make sure your camera is close by so you can capture this wonderful sight on film.
When the night sets in, you can even camp out underneath the starry night sky!
Taking activity holidays here also provides you with the chance to see a wide range of flora and fauna.
Despite being situated in the desert, a variety of plants thrive in the Grand Canyon, including wildflowers, moon lilies and cacti.
You can also catch a glimpse of a wide variety of animals along the river's banks, including mule deer, ringtail cats and bighorn sheep. However, it may be the prospect of seeing coyotes or mountain lions that really excites you.
While rafting along the river, make sure you take the occasional glance upwards. Flying above the waterway you'll get the chance to see great blue herons, hawks, golden eagles and egrets - among other majestic birds - soaring high in the sky.
By making the decision to go on a white water rafting trip in the Grand Canyon, you can be confident that you'll be able to have thrilling adventures that you will never forget.
