Western River Expeditions Rafting Guru Shares 10 Curious Grand Canyon Factoids

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Released on Tuesday, 01 July 2014 11:28

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, July 1, 2014 – The lure of a Grand Canyon raft vacation on the Colorado River has lots to do with the lore. 

One Grand Canyon guru guided on the river for some 700 days before leaving the rapids to join Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) as website and online marketing director.

But Kamron Wixom can’t leave the lore alone. Here are 10 of his favorite facts and trivia about the world’s grandest canyon:

1.    The first known exploration of the Grand Canyon by boat was in 1869, the John Wesley Powell Expedition. He was the first to use the name “Grand Canyon”. By 1969, fewer than 100 people had his followed by boat through the remote gorge.

2.    Outside of the occasional dust storms and forest fires, the Grand Canyon is home of the some of the cleanest air in the United States.

3.    The Kaibab Tree Squirrel, a unique species that lives only on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, was separated from its South Rim cousins millennia ago.

4.    An estimated five million people view the Grand Canyon annually from the North and South rims. Only 20,000 see it by river raft or dory. (Western River Expeditions is the leading outfitter, putting some 4,000 guests through the Canyon each year.)

5.    Grand Canyon was named America’s 17^th National Park in 1919, following in the footsteps of, among others, Yellowstone, Yosemite, Crater Lake, Glacier and Denali.

6.    The Kennedys took a highly publicized Grand Canyon rafting trip in 1972 and the popularity of rafting in the Grand Canyon suddenly skyrocketed.

7.    Grand Canyon still uses a scale of rapids from 1-10, a system that was grandfathered in before an international system scaled rapids from 1 to 6. A 10 is like a 5 on the international scale; a 6 on international scale cannot be navigated.

8.    Because they couldn't afford a boat, two swimmers in 1955 swam the entire length of the Grand Canyon, a distance of 288 miles.  (see: http://www.amazon.com/We-Swam-Grand-Canyon-Vacation/dp/0963405594)

9.    The Grand Canyon National Park has recorded more than 4,800 archeological sites and has surveyed just 5 percent of the park’s 1.2 million acres.

10.  On June 30, 1956, two planes flying from Los Angeles to Chicago, a United Airlines DC-7 and a TWA Constellation, had a mid-air collision over the Canyon and all on board perished. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was created in 1958 as a result of this accident.

“There’s a synergy between a human being and a canyon. We get possessive of it; it’s our canyon. It’s so huge on one scale but so intimate on the other scale that it becomes our own. When people talk about their experiences in the canyon you have an instant bond with each other but at the same time you’re possessive of it. This contrast is indicative of nearly every experience you have in the Grand Canyon,” says Wixom.

After some 700 days in the Grand Canyon, what was his most satisfying moment?

“As a guide, it was the last night of the trip. I walked down the beach and saw a guest staring at the sunset with the canyon walls and river flowing through the foreground. I asked how she was doing. She turned and it took a few seconds for her to say something. Her Zen moment was happening. I was privileged to be the guide who helped her get to that moment,” he says.

Western River Expeditionshas guided more guests through the famous gorge over the last 53 years than any other outfitter - and the word has gotten out.  “It’s an absolutely inspiring adventure,” says Brandon Lake, CMO of Western River Expeditions.

Annually, by the start of spring, Grand Canyon river trips for the upcoming summer season are usually sold out, notes Lake.  However this year the company has openings on a few departure dates on their signature six-day journey: July 22, 23, 24, 29, and August 13, 21, 26, 27, 30, 31.

For a copy of the 2014 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669), or visit: http://www.westernriver.com/.

Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) is an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona. Annually from March through October it escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon and the largest single tour provider in Moab, UT, through its division Moab Adventure Center (http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/).

Western River Expeditions, providing Grand Canyon rafting, Utah rafting, and Idaho rafting trips, was founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey. It has been named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company is the proud recipient of the "Best of State" award through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program for nine consecutive years

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Western River Expeditions to Host Up to 25 Wounded Service Women On All-Female Rafting Trip in May

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Released on Friday, 25 April 2014 11:35

SALT LAKE CITY, UT,– Western River Expeditions is hosting a four-day Colorado River rafting trip through Utah’s Cataract Canyon in Canyonlands National Park for up to 25 service women who have experienced emotional or physical trauma from their recent overseas tours of duty. The women-only May 12-15 river rafting trip is sponsored by www.warriorsoncataract.org.

Accompanying the trip will be a crew of women including female Western River Expeditions guides and female support crew who have volunteered to serve on this adventure.

“Many of these women suffer deep psychological trauma and PTSD from rape and assault in the military, and having male soldiers in camp would have a chilling effect.” said Fredrick Solheim who coordinates www.warriorsoncataract.org out of Boulder, CO. Some of the soldiers on past trips have been on suicide watch lists.

“Working with outpatient facilities at medical centers,” Solheim said, “I take the most disabled first. I don’t care about status of discharge. This trip is all about healing. The more disabled they are, the more they gain. If you can come off of suicide watch list, that’s a pretty big jump.”

The program began some four years ago when Solheim, by profession a scientist on contract to the U.S. Navy to build atmospheric sensors, heard a young and disabled Marine interviewed on National Public Radio about his learning-to-ski experiences.

“I’ve been down the river and have seen transformations happen. I knew that combat soldiers are adrenalin junkies and would like big rapids,” said Solheim. “And the support groups spontaneously formed with other combat soldiers goes beyond what the VA can accomplish with their therapy and pharmaceuticals.”  This is his fourth year and he has planned four rafting adventures. He hopes that the river’s healing powers and the adventure and camaraderie on a trip will decrease the number of soldiers on the suicide watch list, and help them to heal and reintegrate into civil society.

“One of the hazards confronting these vets is the feeling of isolation and abandonment, further contributing to depression. We are losing over 8,000 vets each year, dying by their own hand - more than we have lost in the decade-plus of conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan,” he added. “One therapist told me that she had had nine veterans on their High Suicide Risk Watch List, and after the raft trips and some other activities, they graduated all of them off of the list.”

A soldier who sustained six gunshot wounds, 27 surgeries and who was an  Eagle Scout at 14 wrote after a 2013 rafting trip, “On behalf of my Platoon D 3rd Ranger Battalion, I thank you for this unimaginable experience. All of you have helped us in ways I can’t explain. From tracking down lost baggage, to cooking to some of your dietary needs. I personally will never forget this trip, nor my fellow Rangers. This is Paradise outdoors.”

About Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) is an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona. Annually from March through October it escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon and the largest single tour provider in Moab, UT, through its division Moab Adventure Center (http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/).

Western River Expeditions, providing Grand Canyon rafting, Utah rafting, and Idaho rafting trips, was founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey. It has been named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company is the proud recipient of the "Best of State" award through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program for ten consecutive years.  For 2014 season reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 or 801.942.6669.

# # #

For media inquiries, interviews and photos contact Widness & Wiggins PR:

Sara Widness: 802.234.6704 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Dave Wiggins: 303.554.8821 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website and portfolio of past releases: http://www.travelnewssource.com/

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Wounded Warriors Contact:

Fredrick Solheim / 303. 818.7600 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

www.warriorsoncataract.org

Western River Expeditions Predicts Solid Rafting Season on Colorado and Green Rivers That Are Unaffected by West Coast Drought

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Released on Wednesday, 16 April 2014 09:40

SALT LAKE CITY, April 14, 2014– Western River Expeditions reports that spring runoff from the Rocky Mountains into the Colorado and Green Rivers bodes well for an average to above average rafting season. 

“We want to get this upbeat report out to rafting enthusiasts who may be concerned that the drought menacing California waters has spread into Utah’s river system,” says Brian Merrill, CEO of Western River Expeditions. “An above-average snowpack in the Northern and Central Rockies means we’ll have the best season in years for rafting on the Green and Colorado river systems in Utah.”

As of April 1, runoff was 112 percent of normal, compared to the same date a year ago when it was at 73 percent of normal and in 2012 at 60 percent of normal.

“In years when the snowpack was nearly identical to where we are at this point, the water year ended up being average. Average is actually really good. It's not the intense, high water that garners attention, but it is still a lot of water and a lot of fun,” Merrill underscores.

His predictions come from monitoring historic snow pack levels in the Upper Colorado River Basin that covers the northern half of Colorado, part of the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming and the eastern portion of the Uinta Mountains. The basin is the source of water in the Green and Colorado rivers. He then compares snow pack levels with historic peak flows (measured in cubic feet per second or cfs) in Cataract Canyon.

“If it stays wet and cool over the next two months, we'll be in great shape. To give you some historical perspective, here are figures from comparable years on this date:

• 1995 = 117% of normal; peak Cataract flow = 80,700 cfs
• 1989 = 116% of normal; peak Cataract flow = 16,310 cfs

“These are the two extremes, but my money is on a decent water year. In most years when the snow pack is over 100% at this point, we end up peaking with at least 50,000 cfs in Cataract. Our reservations staff is optimistically advising clients that Colorado is doing better than just about everywhere else in the West,” he adds.

While Grand Canyon has the name recognition when it comes to river rafting, Utah’s Cataract Canyon is often overlooked.  Cataract Canyon splits through the heart of Canyonlands National Park inviting boaters to experience both whitewater thrills and eye-popping off-river jaunts.

Other river trips on the Colorado and Green rivers that are expected to have average to above average water levels this spring and summer include:

• Utah– Desolation Canyon, Green River  http://www.westernriver.com/trips/green/

• Utah– Westwater Canyon, Colorado River  http://www.westernriver.com/trips/westwater1day/

About Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) is an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona. Annually from March through October it escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon and the largest single tour provider in Moab, UT, through its division Moab Adventure Center (http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/).

Western River Expeditions, providing Grand Canyon rafting, Utah rafting, and Idaho rafting trips, was founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey. It has been named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company is the proud recipient of the "Best of State" award through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program for nine consecutive years.  For 2014 season reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 or 801.942.6669.

# # #

Media Contact:

For media inquiries, interviews and photos please contact Widness & Wiggins PR:

Sara Widness: 802.234.6704 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Dave Wiggins: 303.554.8821 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website and portfolio of past releases: http://www.travelnewssource.com/

Follow Western River Expeditions:

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Western River Expeditions Suggests Rafting As Best Way to See Canyonlands National Park: Names Top Five Off-River Hikes

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Released on Monday, 17 March 2014 09:20

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, March 17, 2014– He who hesitates may miss the boat for a 2014 Grand Canyon raft vacation on the Colorado River as there are only a few remaining spots this summer on a handful of departures in July and August.

Western River Expeditions has guided more guests through the famous gorge over the last 53 years than any other outfitter - and the word has gotten out.  “It’s an absolutely inspiring adventure,” says Brandon Lake, CMO of Western River Expeditions.  “But, what many people don’t know is that there is another incredibly amazing canyon hidden just above the Grand Canyon on the Colorado River.”

Without the name recognition, of “Grand Canyon,” Utah’s Cataract Canyon is often overlooked.  “This hidden gem is unbelievable,” says Lake. Cataract Canyon splits through the heart of Canyonlands National Park inviting boaters to experience both whitewater thrills and eye-popping off-river jaunts.

Those choosing to raft this stretch of the Colorado River experience signature runs of world-class rapids that rival Grand Canyon counterparts. As for hiking? Canyonlands National Park offers some of the most incredible hikes in the world.  However, due to the rugged terrain and inaccessibility of much of the park’s 257,000 acres, one of the best ways to explore Canyonlands National Park is by river.

“Many people think a rafting trip involves sitting on a raft for long periods of time,” says Lake. “I like to compare it to a cruise, but with even more stops for shore excursions.  Between breakfast on the beach, possible morning and afternoon hikes, a stop for a buffet lunch and all-inclusive beach camping each night, it’s the perfect adventure. And the hikes in Cataract Canyon are fantastic!”

Instead of traversing overland mile after mile by jeep, foot or mountain bike to get to desired trails deep inside the park, departing from the river on hiking excursions minimizes the time and effort to reach preferred objectives, notes Lake. Below are his and his guides’ favored trails and off-river destinations:

Lathrop Granaries is ashort hike revealing petroglyphs (images etched into the sandstone) and pictographs (images painted on the sandstone). A wide delta at the mouth of a side canyon provided an open area where early inhabitants planted grains, beans and squash. Adobe structures known as “granaries,” that stored grains for later consumption and spring planting, are visited on this hike.

Indian Creek originates in the Abajo Mountains, flows through the Park and eventually into the Colorado River. On early season trips, this is a popular stop for a hike up the creek to a beautiful waterfall and a refreshing swim. More granaries are found where Indian Creek joins the Colorado.

The Loop Hike is short but strenuous with a world-class view as the pay off. At this point, the Colorado River bends in a giant, three-mile-long loop. The River circles back on itself and at the point where the river channel flowing one direction is exactly parallel with the channel flowing back the other direction, there is a notch or saddle in the sandstone cliffs. A trail leads to the top of the saddle and back down the other side to the river where boats that have circled around the loop pick up hikers on the other side.

The Doll House, or The Sentinels, is a garden of rock pinnacles towering along the top of the cliff wall just a few miles downriver from the confluence of the Colorado and Green rivers. It is common to camp near the Doll House on the second night of a four-day Cataract Canyon trip. This allows plenty of time to complete what is the most strenuous hike of the trip. The trail is steep, climbing over 1,000 feet from the river to the top of the canyon, but certainly beats the 7.5 hour drive from Moab to get to this location.

Dark Canyon features a creek that flows through the canyon and into the Colorado. Guides lead hikers about a mile through the bottom of a side canyon to an area of deep pools and small waterfalls. This can be a real oasis in the warm summer months.

For the past 5 decades, whitewater rafting experts, Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/), have navigated the West’s wildest rivers, enroute recognizing that guests enjoy varying the pace between the rapids and terra firma. On the Colorado River through Cataract Canyon the company offers two and four-day rafting programs inclusive of catered camping and guided hiking explorations.

Just south of Moab where the Colorado River and Green River meet in a majestic setting called “The Confluence,” Cataract Canyon begins. Bolstered by the Green River, the Colorado River doubles its force and carves a deep 100-mile-long chasm through the heart of Canyonlands National Park. Here is where four and two-day rafting trips are staged.

Both two and four-day expeditions include rafting, optional hiking, catered camping (cots, tents, sleeping bags, chairs and water-resistant bag), all meals between departure and return, transfers from Moab to the river and return transportation (four-day expedition by Cessna and two-day expedition by shuttle). Guests may hike to, among others, ancient Indian ruins, pictographs and a magnificent outlook high above the mighty Colorado.  On river, is a thrilling 100-mile ride through stunning scenery, over 30 class III-V whitewater rapids including the notorious “Big Drops,” where a raft plunges 30 feet in a matter of minutes, matching the whitewater of the Grand Canyon in power and difficulty.

Expeditions depart weekly from late may through late August for Cataract Canyon 4 Day - http://www.westernriver.com/trips/cataract/  programs. Open to ages 10 and up, the per person price is $1,365 for adults and $1,025 for youth 10-15. Guests camp for three nights along the river.

The price for the Cataract Canyon 2-Day Express is $674 for ages 12 and up. Expeditions depart weekly from early May through the July 4 weekend. The trip begins and ends in Moab, with the return transfer by ground shuttle. Guests camp for one night along the river. See: http://www.westernriver.com/trips/canyonlands/

WesternRiverExpeditions

Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) is an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona. Annually from March through October it escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon and the largest single tour provider in Moab, UT, through its division Moab Adventure Center (http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/).

Western River Expeditions, providing Grand Canyon rafting, Utah rafting, and Idaho rafting trips, was founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey. It has been named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company is the proud recipient of the "Best of State" award through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program for nine consecutive years.  For 2014 season reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 or 801.942.6669.

# # #

Media Contact:

For media inquiries, interviews and photos please contact Widness & Wiggins PR:

Sara Widness: 802.234.6704 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Dave Wiggins: 303.554.8821 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website and portfolio of past releases: http://www.travelnewssource.com/

Follow Western River Expeditions:

On Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WesternRiverExpeditions

On Twitter: https://twitter.com/WesternRiver

On You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/user/bestraftingvacations?feature=mhee

On Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/westernriver/

Western River Expeditions Sponsors “Share the Love” Photo Contest From Now until Feb. 13, 2014

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Released on Thursday, 30 January 2014 09:21

Winner Based on Total Social Media Shares to Receive $3,000 Trip Credit for 2014 or 2015 

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Jan. 30, 2014– After a half century of  navigating the West’s wildest rivers, whitewater rafting pioneer Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) invites past guests and future rafters to participate in a “Share the Love” photo contest with the grand prize being a $3,000 trip credit on, among others, Grand Canyon rafting departures. http://www.westernriver.com/photo-contest/

The entry achieving the highest quantity of social media shares by midnight on Feb. 13, 2014, will receive a Valentine's present of a $3,000 credit towards a Grand Canyon 3, 4, 6 or 7 Day Trip (valued from $1,265 to $2,925); Cataract Canyon 4 Day Trip (valued from $1,365/person) or Desolation Canyon 5 Day Trip (valued from $1,495/person). The trip credit must be used for departures in 2014 or 2015. Space is subject to availability.

Winners of the contest that began in mid January will be announced on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, 2014.

To enter, participants are asked to post a photo or video of a past Western River expedition, explaining why they loved their rafting adventure; or people can post a photo or video describing why they want to take a trip with Western River Expeditions.   See: http://www.westernriver.com/photo-contest/entryform.php

Entrants will be notified within 48 hours with a link to a page they can share to gain votes via social media. Outside votes will also be coming from Western River's fans and followers on various social media.

Entrants are encouraged to get friends and family to view and share their entry via social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc). The winner will be determined by the tally of social media shares of that post. Comments made directly on individual’s blog posts will also be added into the tally. The top three contestants will be asked to verify social media accounts before the final tally is made.

To view current entries, see http://www.westernriver.com/blog/photo-contest-2014/.

Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) is an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona. Annually from March through October it escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon and the largest single tour provider in Moab, UT, through its division Moab Adventure Center (http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/).

Western River Expeditions, providing Grand Canyon rafting, Utah rafting, and Idaho rafting trips, was founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey. It has been named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company is the proud recipient of the "Best of State" award through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program for nine consecutive years.  For 2014 season reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 or 801.942.6669.

# # #

Media Contact:

For media inquiries, interviews and photos please contact Widness & Wiggins PR:

Sara Widness: 802.234.6704 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Dave Wiggins: 303.554.8821 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website and portfolio of past releases: http://www.travelnewssource.com/

Follow Western River Expeditions:

On Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WesternRiverExpeditions

On Twitter: https://twitter.com/WesternRiver

On You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/user/bestraftingvacations?feature=mhee

On Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/westernriver/

Western River Expeditions Receives Excellence Award from Small Business Institute

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Released on Tuesday, 22 October 2013 13:07

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Oct. 22, 2013– Celebrating over 50 years of navigating the West’s wildest rivers, whitewater rafting pioneer Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) has been selected for the 2013 United States Excellence Award amongst all its peers and competitors by the Small Business Institute for Excellence in Commerce (SBIEC).

Each year the SBIEC conducts business surveys and industry research to identify companies that have achieved demonstrable success in their local business environment and industry category. They are recognized as having enhanced the commitment and contribution of small businesses through service to their customers and community. Small businesses of this caliber enhance the consumer-driven stature that United States is renowned for. 

Western River Expeditions has consistently demonstrated a high regard for upholding business ethics and company values. This recognition by SBIEC marks a significant achievement as an emerging leader within various competitors and is setting benchmarks that the industry should follow. 

As part of the industry research and business surveys, various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the selected companies in each category. This research is part of an exhaustive process that encapsulates a yearlong immersion in the business climate of the United States. 

About SBIEC

The SBIEC is a leading authority on researching, evaluating and recognizing companies across a wide spectrum of industries that meets its stringent standards of excellence. It has spearheaded the idea of independent enterprise and entrepreneurial growth allowing businesses of all sizes to be recognized locally and encouraged globally. 

Particular emphasis is given to meeting and exceeding industry benchmarks for customer service, product quality and ethical practices. Industry leading standards and practices have been developed and implementation of the same has been pioneered by the dedicated efforts of the business community and commerce leadership. More information on SBIEC can be found at www.sbiec.org 

About Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) is an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona. Annually from March through October it escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon and the largest single tour provider in Moab, UT, through its division Moab Adventure Center (http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/). 

Western River Expeditions, providing Grand Canyon rafting, Utah rafting, and Idaho rafting trips, was founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey. It has been named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company is the proud recipient of the "Best of State" award through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program for nine consecutive years.  For 2014 season information, trips, departure dates, prices and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 or 801.942.6669.

# # #

Media Contact:

For media inquiries, interviews and photos please contact Widness & Wiggins PR:

Sara Widness: 802.234.6704 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Dave Wiggins: 303.554.8821 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website and portfolio of past releases: http://www.travelnewssource.com/

Follow Western River Expeditions:

On Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WesternRiverExpeditions

On Twitter: https://twitter.com/WesternRiver

On You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/user/bestraftingvacations?feature=mhee

On Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/westernriver/

Western River Expeditions Invites Guests to Raft Grand Canyon April / May 2014 With Two Renowned Photographers

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Released on Monday, 05 August 2013 09:00

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Aug. 5, 2013 – Celebrating over 50 years of navigating the West’s wildest rivers, whitewater rafting pioneerWestern River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) announces for 2014 two photo workshops to be held in conjunction with multi-day rafting and camping adventures down the Grand Canyon.

Both trips are seven days, all-inclusive, on-river adventures with world-class photographers Willie Holdman on the first trip and Kerrick James on the second.

The Grand Canyon River Run Workshop from April 3-9 with Willie Holdman is for ages 12 and up. The per person (single or double) rate is $2,655 inclusive all camping and rafting equipment, all freshly prepared meals, guided rafting of the Colorado River for nearly 200 miles over 60 rapids, guided hikes, transfers from a designated hotel to the Las Vegas Airport and a helicopter exit from the canyon at trip’s end. Guests can snap on their own cameras waterfalls, turquoise-colored waters, deep-side canyons and grottos filled with ferns and desert wildflowers. Enroute Holdman, who has floated down the Grand Canyon numerous times on photography expeditions, will facilitate an ongoing photography workshop. See: http://www.willieholdman.com/workshop/

In association with Arizona Highways magazine and photographer Kerrick James, the second workshop is May 6-12. Rafting the Grand Canyon Photography Workshop with Kerrick James is for ages 12 and up as well. The per person (single or double) rate includes pre and post-trip workshops and on-location instruction, roundtrip transportation from Las Vegas, outfitter fees and complete camping set-ups, all chef-prepared meals, park and other fees, and one night lodging (May 6) at La Quinta Inn & Suites in Las Vegas. See: http://www.ahpw.org/workshops/2014/Grand-Canyon-Rafting-Colorado-River-Photo-Workshop-2014-05-07/

About Willie Holdman

Landscape photographer Holdman is a native Utahn. He started experiencing the wonders of nature photography at an early age by assisting his father, Floyd, on photography assignments throughout the country for National Geographic .His Utah landscape photography experiences began when he managed to slip out and photograph the rural areas of Utah while at Brigham Young University where he received his BFA degree with an emphasis in photography. A popular Utah landscape photographer, Willie lives at the base of majestic Mt. Timpanogos in Orem, Utah. Although he has photographed nature all over the world, it can't compare with the versatility and beauty of his home state, Utah. Whether he is high in an alpine meadow experiencing Mountain photography, or low in the red rock desert, concentrating on National Park photography, this is home. http://www.willieholdman.com/

About Kerrick James

Kerrick James took a BFA degree in photography from Arizona State University in 1982. Since then he has photographed the lands and cities of the American West, Mexico, and the Pacific Rim, with increasing emphasis on Alaska, Hawaii and Baja California. His work has appeared in more than 200 book and magazine covers and numerous feature stories in travel and inflight magazines like Arizona Highways, Alaska, Voyageur, Virtuoso Life, Outdoor Photographer, National Geographic Adventure, Sky, Sunset and Conde Nast Traveler UK. In addition to providing covers for two books by National Geographic, he has also shot guidebooks of the Southwest, Arizona, New Mexico, Las Vegas, and San Francisco for Compass American Guides. For Insight Guides, he has shot travel guides of Arizona, Utah, California and San Francisco. He is an active member of the Society of American Travel Writers, Through Each Other’s Eyes and is president of the Travel Journalist’s Guild. He lives in Mesa, AZ, with sons Shane, Royce and Keanu. kerrickjames.com

Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) is an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona. Annually from March through October it escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon and the largest single tour provider in Moab, UT, through its division Moab Adventure Center (http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/).

Western River Expeditions, providing Grand Canyon rafting, Utah rafting, and Idaho rafting trips, was founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey. It has been named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company is the proud recipient of the "Best of State" award through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program for nine consecutive years.  For 2013 and 2014 season reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 or 801.942.6669.

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Western River Expeditions Announces Rare Late Season Grand Canyon Space Availability On the Raft Trip of a Lifetime

Details

Released on Tuesday, 04 June 2013 09:16

Offers Fun Reasons to Consider a River Cruise over a Typical Ocean Cruise

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, June 4, 2013 – Celebrating over 50 years of navigating the West’s wildest rivers, whitewater rafting pioneerWestern River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) announces that rare late season space has just opened up for this summer’s 6-day flagship rafting adventure through the Grand Canyon.  http://www.westernriver.com/trips/grand6day/

Available departure dates as of early June are July 31-Aug. 5, Aug. 13-18, Aug. 21-26, Aug. 22-27, Aug. 28-Sept.2 and Sept. 11-17 for a 7-day program. Trips begin and end in Las Vegas, NV, or Marble Canyon, AZ. All-inclusive per person rates are $2,585 for rafting nearly 200 miles through 60 world-class rapids and surreal scenery. The rate includes a helicopter lift out of the canyon at trip’s end, equipment (cots, tents, sleeping bags, chairs and water-resistant bag), all meals and return flight to Marble Canyon, AZ or Las Vegas.

“This trip combines the epic thrill of seeing the Grand Canyon from the river perspective with side canyon hikes to waterfalls, our deluxe-style of all-inclusive catered camping and sumptuous campfire cuisine,” says Brian Merrill, CEO of Western River Expeditions. “Plus you’ll be surprised by how much more personal service, value and diversity you’ll experience compared to another popular summer escape - the big ship cruise vacation.”

Merrill likes to point out that, unlike cruise ships that charge for shore excursions, there are no hidden fees on a rafting holiday that includes hiking to Native American ruins with mind-numbing views and splashing through a100-foot waterfall cascading right to the river's edge. Instead of a dining room seating 2,000 in staggered seatings for dinner, guests mingle for cocktails and games or relax on the sandy beach, perhaps taking an 11^th hour dip, as the camp chef prepares meals Dutch-oven style, with all the flavor and flair you’d expect from a fancy restaurant.

“We don’t want to go overboard pointing out the differences between rafting and cruising on a mega-ton ship. Just suffice it to say that time and again our guests tell us they’ve had the best vacation of their lives with us in the Grand Canyon,” adds Merrill.

Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) is an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona. Annually from March through October it escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon and the largest single tour provider in Moab, UT, through its division Moab Adventure Center (http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/).

Western River Expeditions, providing Grand Canyon rafting, Utah rafting, and Idaho rafting trips, was founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey. Today it pursues a “guiding green” philosophy and belongs to some of the top environmentally conscious organizations in the world: Grand Canyon River Outfitters Association, American Rivers, Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics, Utah Rivers Council, America Outdoors, and National River Cleanup Week. See: http://www.westernriver.com/whywestern/environment.php

Western River Expeditions has been named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company was honored last spring as the 2012 recipient of "Best of State" through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program. This is the ninth consecutive year Western River Expeditions has earned this distinction.  For 2013 season reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 or 801.942.6669.

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For media inquiries, interviews and photos please contact Widness & Wiggins PR:

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Dave Wiggins: 303.554.8821 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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Western River Expeditions Suggests Three Ways to Introduce Comfort-Style River Rafting to Families and Friends This Summer

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Released on Wednesday, 27 March 2013 14:47

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, March 27, 2013 – Celebrating over 50 years of navigating the West’s wildest rivers, whitewater rafting pioneerWestern River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) suggests three ways to experience river rafting that range from inn-to-inn hospitality to multi-sport adventure to a sampler of overnight, all-inclusive camping. 

“Until someone has experienced the beauty of sleeping under the stars on a riverside beach, they can be reluctant to sign up for an overnight rafting adventure,” says Brandon Lake, Chief Marketing Officer of Western River Expeditions. “We realize that many want to experience a one-of-a-kind overnight rafting adventure without sacrificing the roof over head. Some folks just want to sample a single night under the stars before signing up for a longer experience.” 

With this in mind, Western River Expeditions offers three experiences to accommodate those searching for an adventure vacation with all the comforts of home. The waterful choices are rivers in Oregon and Utah. 

Oregon’s Rogue River near Medford remains so remote that boats deliver the mail in some regions where the river is the only road. Wildlife sightings may include otter, deer and black bear. Whitewater on this itinerary is classified Class II-IV. Three and four-day whitewater rafting trips include overnights at riverside lodges where dinner and breakfast are served. The per-person double rate is from $959. The trip accommodates ages 5 and up.  See http://www.westernriver.com/trips/rogue-river-rafting/

Utah’s four-day Southwest Sampler includes two nights at Moab, Utah’s hip and trendy Gonzo Inn with a scenic off-road Hummer Safari and a tour of Arches National Park.  The final two days are spent rafting a mild but breathtaking section of the Colorado River with guests experiencing one night of all-inclusive, Western River-style beach camping. 

“This trip is incredibly popular as it allows guests to ‘sample’ a single night under the stars and dine in the most amazing setting. Once they realize how easy it is to camp with us, they often come back for a longer rafting experience,” says Lake. The per-person double rate is from $615. The trip accommodates ages 5 and up. See http://westernriver.com/trips/southwest/ 

Moab, Utah is also home base for Western’s popular Westwater Multisport Adventure that includes three nights at Red Cliffs Lodge on the banks of the Colorado River, an off-road Hummer Safari on a trail known as “Hell’s Revenge” and a full day of rafting through Westwater Canyon, one of the best short whitewater trips in the West. Whitewater on this itinerary is classified Class III-V. The per-person, double rate is $675. The minimum age is 12. See http://westernriver.com/trips/westwater/

Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) is an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona. Annually from March through October it escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon and the largest single tour provider in Moab, UT, through its division Moab Adventure Center (http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/). 

Western River Expeditions, providing Grand Canyon rafting, Utah rafting, and Idaho rafting trips, was founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey. Today it pursues a “guiding green” philosophy and belongs to some of the top environmentally conscious organizations in the world: Grand Canyon River Outfitters Association, American Rivers, Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics, Utah Rivers Council, America Outdoors, and National River Cleanup Week. See: http://www.westernriver.com/whywestern/environment.php 

Western River Expeditions has been named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company was honored last spring as the 2012 recipient of "Best of State" through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program. This is the ninth consecutive year Western River Expeditions has earned this distinction.  For 2013 season reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 or 801.942.6669. 

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Media Contact:

For media inquiries, interviews and photos please contact Widness & Wiggins PR:

Sara Widness: 802.234.6704 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Dave Wiggins: 303.554.8821 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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Western River Expeditions Reveals Seven Surprises While Rafting Colorado River through Grand Canyon

Details

Released on Friday, 22 February 2013 11:20

Limited Space Still Available for April, May and August Departures

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Feb. 22, 2013– River rafting pioneer Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) reveals seven surprises for guests on multiple-day Grand Canyon rafting trips.

And what may come as the eighth surprise is the fact that with the exception of a few departures in 2013 trips are nearly at capacity and the company is taking reservations now for 2014 adventures. Limited space is still available in April, May and August for 2013.

“The Grand Canyon, one of Seven Wonders of the Natural World, continues to surprise even us, and we’ve been rafting between its walls for over 50 years,” said  Brian Merrill, CEO of the single largest rafting outfitter in the Grand Canyon National Park in terms of numbers of guests hosted and numbers of days on the river.

The Grand Canyon is Western River Expeditions’ signature trip conquering over 60 major rapids during a 187-mile run in six or seven days. Per person rates for 2013 begin at $2,585. There’s an option to do a shorter three or four day trip covering 100 river miles from $1,240 per person. Surprises begin in April, a time preferred by professional photographers for flowers, cooler temperatures and thunderous waterfalls. The season continues through mid-September.

Here are the seven surprises in store for guests on six and seven-day Grand Canyon Itinerary:

Spectacular side hikes: At continual stops throughout the canyon, guests stalk silence in narrow side canyons, cool off in dripping grottoes and fathom trailside a waterfall’s roar – hidden places only seen from the river.

Delectable food: Guests ponder the perfection of meals prepared by river guides who are also accomplished campfire and Dutch oven chefs, working daily with fresh produce and prime cuts of meat and fish.

History: Interpretive guides pry curiosities revealing lore of cultural and natural history focused on Native American rock art and ruins as well as the geologic history of the Canyon.

Unplugging: The setting and pace of a rafting trip provide for the long overdue need to completely get away from it all, recharging one’s batteries rather than those of your devices. (Guides are not fully unplugged and can access civilization via satellite phones in case of emergency.)

The night sky: Astonishing describes the vivid depth of the heavens viewed from within the depths of the canyon. Black walls rise then gape open to reveal a star-studded crack of sky, with a dusting of the Milky Way. No artificial light masks the sky so far from the nearest town or city.

The unique J-Rig raft: Western River Expedition’s J-Rig Raft, the “Cadillac of the Colorado," is the only large-capacity raft on the Colorado River with forward-facing seats. Guests can choose up-front “gusto" seats or buckin' bronco seats on the row behind. Plus, unthinkable on most rafts, guests can even walk around!

It couldn’t be easier: People often think of a remote wilderness adventure as logistically stressful or challenging. Yet the opposite is true.  On an all-inclusive Western River adventure, guests simply show up in Las Vegas or Marble Canyon, Arizona with a duffle bag of clothes.  After a short flight or bus ride to the river, Western River takes care of the rest.

Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) is an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona. Annually from March through October it escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon and the largest single tour provider in Moab, UT, through its division Moab Adventure Center (http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/).

Western River Expeditions, providing Grand Canyon rafting, Utah rafting, and Idaho raftingtrips, was founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey. Today it pursues a “guiding green” philosophy and belongs to some of the top environmentally conscious organizations in the world: Grand Canyon River Outfitters Association, American Rivers, Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics, Utah Rivers Council, America Outdoors, and National River Cleanup Week. See: http://www.westernriver.com/whywestern/environment.php

Western River Expeditions has been named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company was honored last spring as the 2012 recipient of "Best of State" through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program. This is the ninth consecutive year Western River Expeditions has earned this distinction.  For 2013 season reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 or 801.942.6669.

# # #

Media Contact:

For media inquiries, interviews and photos please contact Widness & Wiggins PR:

Sara Widness: 802.234.6704 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Dave Wiggins: 303.554.8821 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website and portfolio of past releases: http://www.travelnewssource.com/

Follow Western River Expeditions:

On Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WesternRiverExpeditions

On Twitter: https://twitter.com/WesternRiver

On You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/user/bestraftingvacations?feature=mhee

On Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/westernriver/