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Western River Expeditions

Founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey, Western River Expeditions is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon with 13,000 user-days, and the largest single tour provider in Moab, UT. Western River offers trips through the natural wonders of Utah, Idaho and Colorado for adventurers of all ages and levels.
 
Moab Adventure Center
At Western's Moab Adventure Center, you can create your own experience with as many half to full-day activities as you wish, plus stay in a comfortable hotel each night. The center is your place for all the gear and souvenirs for your trip too.
 
Office Locations
Western River Expeditions is a nationally recognized outfitter headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona.
 
Annual Guests
Western services over 30,000 guests on trips each year through river vacations and the Moab Adventure Center.
 
Points of Departure
Western River currently has seven points of departure for its trips, depending on which adventure you choose. They include:
Salt Lake City, Utah
Moab, Utah
Las Vegas, Nevada
Marble Canyon, Arizona
Stanley, Idaho
Boise, Idaho
Grand Junction, Colorado
 
Waters to Raft
  • Western River provides professionally guided rafting trips on:
  • Colorado River in Utah and Arizona
  • Grand Canyon (188 or 100 miles)
  • Cataract Canyon (100 miles)
  • Westwater Canyon (16 miles)
  • Moab Day Trip (14 miles)
  • Green River in Utah
  • Green River, Desolation Canyon (84 miles)
  • Idaho Rafting Trips
  • Main Salmon River (89 miles)
  • Middle Fork Salmon River (100 miles)
  • Snake River through Hells Canyon
Vacation Variety
Everything from day trips to week-long escapes, from everyday adventurer to first-time fun-seekers, from extreme thrills to tame chills, from roughing it in the elements to pampering at four-star resorts and spas.
 
Price Range and Duration
Fully-equipped, multiple-day expeditions are all inclusive in their prices. Some trips will have optional add-ons (such as flights and shuttles). All multi-day trips include transportation to the river, food (meals and snacks), drinks camping equipment, safety equipment and professional guide service. For a complete list of trips and prices, see our printable summary sheet: http://www.westernriver.com/comparisons/
 
Western’s Guides
Western’s staff includes over 60 licensed and professionally trained guides, all with their own stories and experiences to share. Each Western guide experiences nearly 300 hours of training before escorting his or her first guest down the river. This training includes swift water rescue certification, CPR and First Aid Certification, a state licensing test, food handler's education, on-river cooking courses, geology and interpretation classes, and Western's renowned custom guide-training program.
 
Western’s Fleet of Vessels
Western uses 4 different types of vessels to navigate the waters, including:
  • 20 J-Rigs
  • 25 Row Rafts
  • 20 Paddle Boats
  • 30 Inflatable kayaks
Western’s Special Hummers®
Western’s professional guides operate custom Hummer® vehicles with raised seating in the rear for optimum passenger viewing. With 16 inches of ground clearance and an extremely low center of gravity, the Hummer® can navigate virtually any terrain imaginable.
 
Season
Western River offers trips March through October on selected waterways.
 
Other activities
In addition to the best rafting vacations in the West, Western River offers tours via Hummer, horseback, jet boat, 4x4, airplane and mountain bike.
 
Specialty Trips
Western offers trips for everyone and every group, including:
  • Women’s Adventure
  • Corporate Retreats
  • Group and Family Reunion Trips
 
Western’s Culinary Arts
Western’s guides are not only trained in the outdoors and geography of the area, they are also talented campfire cooks. Expect anything but your normal camping food on trips with Western River. Look forward to plates of steaming flapjacks, fresh fruit and scrambled eggs every morning and tasty chicken and veggie wraps or perhaps chicken salad pitas as part of Western's mid-day buffet. Dinner every night is different including grilled chicken breasts, tender steaks, pasta, or fresh fish.
 
Guiding Green Philosophy
Western River is committed to not only providing the best rafting trips in the world, but also to protecting those valuable resources in the environment we operate in and giving back to our community. See: http://www.westernriver.com/whywestern/environment.php
 
Awards
Western River Expeditions Recent Awards and Recognitions:
  • National Geographic Adventure Magazine “Best Adventure Travel Company”
  • Utah Best of State
  • The Official Best of Utah
 
Reservations
Western River Expedition’s helpful reservations specialists are available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. MST at (801) 942-6669 or toll free at (866) 904-1160. You can also book your trip online at: http://secure.westernriver.com/express/reservation/
 
Contact Information
 
-Brandon Lake, Vice President
Phone: 801-942-6669 x101
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
 
-Widness & Wiggins PR
Sara Widness / 802-234-6704 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or
Dave Wiggins / 303-554-8821/ This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

The Civilized Way to Rough It! Family Camping in Style on a Western River Expedition

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Released on Tuesday, 19 April 2022 12:14

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, April 19, 2022 – While DIY often has its charms, do-it-yourself limits can be stressful when organizing and executing a family camping adventure.

FUN is purportedly the goal of such an adventure; however, the following are a few of many challenges that inexperienced campers may encounter:

  • Deciding where to go and where to set up camp
  • Figuring out how to set up the tent, kitchen and common areas
  • Planning and delivering campfire cookery beyond hotdogs and marshmallows
  • Adhering to campfire etiquette – where and how to build a fire, gathering fuel,and taking steps to preventstarting a forest fire
  • Creating a checklist of necessary gear and equipment and then sourcing everything on the list, includingsleeping bags, sleeping pads, cooking equipment, flashlights, and fresh water
  • Getting up to speed on camping etiquette when it comes to the potty, the what, where and how a comfort station is set up
  • Reading the weather and preparing for the worst
  • Coming up with fun things to do day and night to keep the family engaged and happy

Western River Expeditions (https://www.westernriver.com/), the Utah-based company that has been conducting outdoor rafting and camping excursions for guests since 1961, has heard the confessions of many clients who at the 11th hour tossed their DIY notions and turned to these experts to manage their outdoor vacation experience.

Western River Expeditions calculates that it has bid “nighty night” to tens of thousands of campers who opted to take the more stress-free trail to camping under the stars. They opted to go with trained and knowledgeable professionals who can not only identify the Big Dipper, spot a big horn sheeponthe cliffs and prepare hearty meals three times per day, but who also have the knowledge and preparation for handling unpredictable weather and creating a spectacular outdoor journey for families, couples and solo travelers.

“We make wilderness adventure easy,” said Brandon Lake, co-owner and company CMO.“All you have to do is show up with your duffle bag of personal belongs (based on a suggested list) and we provide the rest.”

Here’s what “the rest” includes on every Western River Expedition: deluxe tents and cots, comfortable camp chairs, delicious Dutch-oven dinners, buffet breakfasts,and lunches, expertly trainedguides, and top-quality rafts and equipment. While some outfitters impose additional fees for camping gear and rafting equipment, Western River bundles everything together.

After decades of making camping easy for its guests, here are a few of many benefits to families by engaging in The Western River Expeditions Way (see: https://www.westernriver.com/camping)...

  • Camping is a learning experience for kids, with guides serving as role models on how to conduct best practices in the wilderness
  • Parents can sit back and relax, because these same guides do most of the work, leaving families time together to bond and play
  • Chefs who are veterans when it comes to preparing incredible campfire meals understand and follow health department standards when it comes to storage and preparation—techniques that can be lost in the DIY world
  • Activities are planned to engage children and adults alike: hikes, beach games, arts and crafts, swimming, songs around the campfire and stargazing
  • A portable toilet and hand wash system is set up each day in camp in a secluded location that assures proper hygiene and privacy

The camping locales may vary, but many of the same sensory and magical experiences can be found in all of the regions where Western River Expeditions introduces the secrets of the wilderness – and universe – to active families. (See: https://www.westernriver.com/typical-day). Here are Western River Expeditions’ suggested best trips for families:

For questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669) or visit the website at: http://www.westernriver.com/.

About Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions 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 and Idaho rafting, and international multi-sport 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 the past eighteen consecutive years (2004-2021).

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Media Contact:

For 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: 720.301.3822 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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?

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

Dates Filling Fast for Western River Expeditions’ Grand Canyon Rafting Trips After a Record Opening Day for the 2023 Season

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Released on Tuesday, 22 February 2022 11:21

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Feb 22, 2022 – Rafting dates are filling fast for Western River Expeditions’ 2023 Grand Canyon Adventures.

The Western River Expeditions’ reservation team is still in awe about what took place when the company made its 2023 Grand Canyon calendar available to the public.

“We had our biggest booking day in history,” notes Brandon Lake, co-owner and CMO. “There is such a strong desire right now to be outdoors with friends and family sharing an epic adventure like rafting the Grand Canyon. When we asked people why they were making reservations now, many cited the need to return to normal, get outside again and plan something they could look forward to.”

“For those who missed the opening booking day, there’s still time to grab a spot on a Grand Canyon rafting trip for 2023 if you are flexible (2022 is sold out),” reports Lake.

While fewer than five, 6 to 7-day trip departures remain with just a few open spots in 2023, there is still some availability for Western’s 3 to 4-day Lower Grand Canyon rafting trips in 2023. These 3 to 4-day Grand Canyon river trips are extremely popular amongst those who have never rafted the Grand Canyon before. “With only two nights of all-inclusive camping on the Colorado River and an optional overnight at a guest ranch, these shorter trips are the perfect introduction to what will likely become your favorite vacation ever,” says Lake.

If running the Grand Canyon isn’t in the cards due to space limitations, Western River Expeditions offers alternatives to rafting Grand Canyon. These alternatives may not carry the same name recognition, but they are similar in expanse and scope and offer whitewater thrills combined with ample off-river hiking. Included are:

For additional details on Grand Canyon rafting adventures and which one might be best for you please watch the short video: https://youtu.be/TR47pWNf4G8. More information and maps can be found at: https://www.westernriver.com/grand-canyon-rafting

For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2022/2023 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669) or visit the website at: http://www.westernriver.com/.

About Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions 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 and Idaho rafting, and international multi-sport 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 the past seventeen consecutive years (2004-2020).

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Media Contact:

For 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: 720.301.3822 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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?

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

Western River Expeditions Has Openings for Private Charters for 2022 Rafting Season

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Released on Friday, 18 February 2022 11:53

Western River Expeditions is accepting group charters for longed-for rafting trips in 2022 for two river canyon destinations in Utah and on rivers in Oregon and Idaho.

These include two and four-day itineraries exploring Cataract Canyon. The four-day program https://www.westernriver.com/cataract-canyon-rafting is recommended for couples/adult and corporate groups. 

A two-day itinerary that utilizes motorized baby snout rigs https://www.westernriver.com/cataract-canyon-express is an option for those with busy schedules yearning for a quick dose of adventure.

A five-day Desolation Canyon https://www.westernriver.com/desolation-canyon adventure is a favorite with families (ages 5 and up) and youth, school and church groups.

Rafting vacations on Idaho’s iconic rivers include

Oregon’s Rogue River offers three and four-day programs as well https://www.westernriver.com/rogue-river-lodge-trip.

A private charter is a great option for groups ranging from extended family to corporate to non-profit. The benefit of going with your own group is the advantage of choosing exactly who you want to travel with, building deeper bonds over shared adventures with family, co-workers, or others. Some may also like the idea of creatinga “travel bubble” for up to two dozen people theyknow and feel safer traveling with during pandemic times. Whatever the reason, Western River’s experience with charter groups is that people get hooked on river rafting and in the future segue into other, often longer river trips, inviting new groups year after year. For details on group charters please see https://www.westernriver.com/group-rafting-trips.

The 2022 window has closed for booking charter rafting trips through the Grand Canyon but there is some limited availability for 2023 remaining. For questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669) or visit the website at: http://www.westernriver.com/.

About Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions 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 and Idaho rafting, and international multi-sport 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 the past seventeen consecutive years (2004-2020).

# # #

Media Contact:

For 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: 720.301.3822 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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?

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

Western River Expeditions Opens Reservations on Nov. 30, 2021, For 2023 Grand Canyon Rafting Vacations

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Released on Monday, 22 November 2021 08:49

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Nov. 22, 2021– Let the games begin! Western River Expeditions’ annual race targeting river rafting hopefuls begins at 6 p.m. on Nov. 30. 2021 when they begin taking reservation requests for 2023 Grand Canyon trips. Dates for 2022 have already filled on the longer 6 to 7-day Grand Canyon trips while only limited space exists on the shorter 3 and 4-day Grand Canyon trips.

The finish line is the annual opportunity to secure reservations now for what many rafting aficionados consider the world’s top river experience.  Historically demand outpaces the supply and within hours of the window opening, many departures are sold out. For details, please see https://www.westernriver.com/grand-canyon-rafting.

For those who are flexible and perhaps missed the boat this year, two lesser-known options to rafting the Grand Canyon include a four-day trip through Cataract Canyon, often referred to as the “The Grand Canyon’s Younger Sister” or a spectacular five-day family-oriented journey down Desolation Canyon on the Green River.

“Utah’s Cataract Canyon, deep within Canyonlands National Park, is near enough in scale, appearance, and proximity to Grand Canyon that it works the same kind of magic one will find in the Grand herself. Just one canyon upstream on the Colorado River in Utah’s Canyonlands National Park is hands down the best alternative to a Grand Canyon rafting vacation,” explains Brandon Lake, Western’s CMO.

If you’re planning to travel with kids, an option that families often enjoy even more than Grand Canyon is Desolation Canyon on the Green River, a mellower but equally breathtaking rafting experience. Like Cataract, it also departs from Moab, Utah, and has good availability for 2022.

For more details on these popular rafting vacations, please see:

  • Cataract Canyon 4-day- https://www.westernriver.com/cataract-canyon-rafting.
  • Cataract Canyon 2-day- https://www.westernriver.com/cataract-canyon-express. These adventures through Canyonlands National Park on the Colorado River are rated as one of the best rafting trips in America. Thrilling rapids combine with explorations of ancient Native American sites and dark-sky stargazing.
  • Desolation Canyon- https://www.westernriver.com/desolation-canyon. Rates for five days include a spectacular scenic flight from Moab to a dramatic desert plateau where the adventure through 40 million years of geologic history begins. Think outlaw hideouts, ancient dinosaur habitats and Native American petroglyphs. Children as young as 5 years old are welcome.

For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ seasonal catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669) or visit the website at: http://www.westernriver.com/.

About Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions 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 and Idaho rafting, and international multi-sport 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 the past sixteen consecutive years (2004-2019).

# # #

Media Contact:

For 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: 720.301.3822 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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?

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

Western River Expeditions Opens 2023 Reservation Window for Charters Seeking Private Grand Canyon Trips

Details
Released on Friday, 12 November 2021 08:28

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Nov. 12, 2021 – This month Western River Expeditions opens select booking dates for charter groups anticipating river rafting adventures in 2023 in the Grand Canyon.

Groups ranging from extended family to corporate to non-profit can benefit from the advantages of this advance booking windowfor up to 28 people on prime departure dates.

Advance bookings for charter groups are available for select, 3, 4 6, or 7-day Grand Canyon rafting expeditions throughout the 2023 season.

“As the popularity of doing an exclusive private trip with just the members of your group has grown over the years, we have found it works best to open up select dates in advance for just these groups. That way they can still find dates with wide-open availability. Doing it this way, we can give ourcharter guests time to advertise, market, promote and book,” said Brandon Lake, co-owner and CMO. “We still leave several dates wide open for the general public so they have plenty of space to for individual bookings when the season opens for individual bookings on Nov. 30. Once this opens, many departures will sell out online within the first several hours.”

Although Mother Nature provides more than enough photo ops on the descent through the Grand Canyon, for these upcoming bookings,Western River Expeditions plans to offer groups the option of custom group t-shirts, adding even more pizzazz to group photos.

Group charters are available on all of the rivers where Western River hosts programs: Cataract Canyon, Desolation Canyon and Westwater Canyon.  Western River’s experience with charter groups is that people get hooked on river rafting and in the future segue into other river trips. For details please see - https://www.westernriver.com/group-rafting-trips.

If an epic river rafting adventure is in your future, Western River Expeditions says don’t delay making reservations for trips down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon and in Utah’s Cataract Canyon and Desolation Canyon.

Here are a few good reasons why to act now.

Tight controls on inventory through commercial permits make these areas available only to a limited few every year. While Western River Expeditions escorts more people down the Colorado River and Green River on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah and Arizona than any other rafting operator in the country, Western River, as well as other commercial tour operators, has to abide by the limits set by government-issued permits. These coveted seats are being snapped up quicker than ever before by an unprecedented surge of demand following months of COVID lockdown, record-breaking heat waves that beg for water-based recreation, and an exploding demand to visit America’s national parks.

As a result, Western River Expeditions filled all Grand Canyon slots for 2021 well in advance. Many departures for 2022 are sold out and others are very close to selling out. 2023 Grand Canyon dates will open for general bookings on Nov. 30 this year. Requests for 2023 group charters are being taken now.

For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2022/2023 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669) or visit the website at: http://www.westernriver.com/.

About Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions 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 and Idaho rafting, and international multi-sport 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 the past seventeen consecutive years (2004-2020).

# # #

Media Contact:

For 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: 720.301.3822 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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?

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

Operating a Recreational Rafting Company During a Time of Drought

Details
Released on Tuesday, 02 November 2021 11:38

Thoughts and Optimism from Western River Expeditions CEO Brian Merrill

November 2021

Dear Friends and Storytellers,

Since 1961, Western River Expeditions has immersed adventurers from around the world in the excitement of rafting down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon.

Re-emerging successfully from the pandemic we’re in, 2022 has been our best booking year ever, even with the absence of international clientele that usually flock to our door and account for a consistent percentage of our business.

So as our gear is cleaned, packed and put away for this season we ask, “What’s on our radar for next year and beyond?”

I can report that advance bookings for 2022 on all of our trips and rivers in the West are strong. Most departures in the Grand Canyon are full.

Traditionally each fall, we announce that we are accepting reservations for Grand Canyon trips a full two years out. 2023 dates will be open for public bookings on November 30th this year. Advanced planning and reality-based optimism are our “go-to’s” that have held us in good stead for decades.

These attributes are thus far carrying the company through the global pandemic that was a wallop out of left field. Less of a surprise are the vagaries of Mother Nature.

Thoughts on the Current Drought

Let me share some insights into the plans we’re prepared to implement to assure that rafting expeditions can continue despite a deepening drought that has affected and will continue to affect the Colorado River’s flow.

Low water is a challenge, but it’s a challenge that we’re used to. Over time we’ve experienced everything from extreme high to unusually low water levels. We’ve got it figured out. There are things that we love about low water and things we love about high water. We adjust accordingly.

Water levels dictate the type of equipment we use. Through Cataract Canyon for instance, lower water means we go to smaller boats carrying fewer (four to five) people than our patented J-Rigs (carrying up to 18) we commandeer for higher water. Additional smaller craft, which are being built for us now, will mean bringing on more guides. This is a slightly less efficient way to operate. But pardon the pun, we go with the flow.

In terms of the impact on our business, we tend not to worry about it too much on a year-in/year-out basis. We take what Mother Nature sends us but we keep our eyes wide open. We’ve been planning for low-water years and have hired accordingly. All our guides receive extensive hands-on training for each river we run, assigning our most experienced guides to navigate the more technical stretches of river encountered. Our planning also includes replacing equipment on a regular cycle, thus spreading expenses and impact over multiple years.

The severity of this drought is evidenced by the extremely low water levels in the two man-made reservoirs created by dams on the lower Colorado River. Both Lake Powell (Glen Canyon Dam) to the north and Lake Mead (Hoover Dam) to the south are currently adversely affected by the diminished flow of water from the respective dams. Until now the upstream dam has provided consistent flows.

We’re keeping a close eye on that. The flow routines are set up by law and agreement with working groups who monitor how much water to release from the dams. All kinds of interest groups, from power generation to fishing to agriculture, depend on the way the release is set up now so they always have enough water to operate. There are all sorts of “what ifs” if the lakes get so low the release systems can’t operate. But I’m confident that we’ll figure out how best to adjust. It’s been done in the past.

The experts say this extended drought goes back into the 1990s. In subsequent years we’ve had water conditions from the lowest to the highest we’ve ever seen. The question is now whether a sustained pattern of random good and bad snowpack years will continue. What I’ve learned is that the experts are often wrong. In this 50-50 deal I’ve learned to not count our chickens until they are hatched.

Eternal optimists that we are, we plan for challenges we can conquer and business ahead as usual.

Kindest regard,

Brian Merrill

CEO of Western River Expeditions and the Moab Adventure Center.

Note to Media

Brian is available for interviews on this topic and anything rafting related. If interested, please contact him at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

For Photos and Requests 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: 720.301.3822 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Western River Expeditions Keeping Rafting Vacations Exciting With Varying Water Levels

Details
Released on Tuesday, 12 October 2021 11:00

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Oct. 12, 2021 – Western River Expeditions, the experts in whitewater river rafting for more than half a century, explain that there’s more than just one way to run a river.

“We pair our guests with one of four different kinds of craft, depending on how adventurous they choose to be, the trip they choose and current water levels,” says co-owner Brandon Lake. In general, each raft type offers a different kind of ride through the waves, holds different amounts of cargo for multi-day expeditions and offers different modes of propulsion. By having a large inventory of raft types, Western can customize the experience for each trip.

Options include Western River Expeditions’ custom-patented J-Rig raft, a comfortable oar rig, a paddle raft, or an inflatable kayak.

Called “The Cadillac of the Colorado”, a motorized J-Rig for up to 18 thrill-seeking passengers is the only craft used by Western River on trips in the Grand Canyon. J-Rigs were built by Western River’s founder Jack Currey. This raft is designed specifically for guests to experience the adventure and thrill of riding the exceptionally large waves on the Colorado River’s whitewater on long expeditions through the Grand Canyon and Cataract Canyon.

Colorado River Trips with J-Rig

●       Grand Canyon 6 or 7-Day Rafting Vacations

●       Grand Canyon 4 Day-River & Ranch Tour

●       Grand Canyon 3 Day-River Trip

●       Cataract Canyon 4-Day River Expedition

Western’s other river rafts come into play when rafting other destinations.

●       Oar-Rig River Raft: A guide wields long oars for strategic maneuvers through calm and whitewater in this 5-passenger craft.

●       Paddle Raft: Up to 8 passengers and a guide, all with paddles, work together to keep the raft afloat through challenging waters. They are great for Class II-III rapids and even Class IV with a skilled guide.

●       Western’s “Duckie” or Inflatable Kayak: Every rapid feels big in an inflatable kayak that’s both buoyant and very maneuverable. Guides point you in the right direction, but the paddling and steering are all up to you.

Utah Rafting Trips with a Variety of Craft

J-Rig, Oar, Paddle and Inflatable Kayak (depending on water levels)

●       2 Day Cataract Canyon Express Trip: Western’s Snout Rig (variation of J-Rig)

●       5 Day Desolation Canyon: Oar and Inflatable Kayak

●       4 Day Southwest Sampler Vacation: Oar, Paddle, Inflatable Kayak

●       4 Day Westwater Multisport Vacation: Oar and Paddle

Idaho, Oregon, and Costa Rica Rafting Trips with Variety of Craft

●       Idaho Rafting (Main Salmon, Middle Fork Salmon, and Lower Salmon Rivers): Oar, Paddle, Inflatable Kayak

●       Oregon Rafting (Rogue River): Oar, Paddle, Inflatable Kayak

●       Costa Rica Rafting (Pacuare River): Paddle

For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2022 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669) or visit the website at: http://www.westernriver.com/.

About Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions 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 and Idaho rafting, and international multi-sport 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 the past seventeen consecutive years (2004-2020).

# # #

Media Contact:

For 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: 720.301.3822 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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?

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

Western River Expeditions Encourages Advance Planning for Seats on Coveted Rafting Adventures

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Released on Wednesday, 25 August 2021 12:55

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Aug 25, 2021 – If an epic river rafting adventure is in your future, Western River Expeditions says don’t delay making reservations for trips down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon and in Utah’s Cataract Canyon.

Here are a few good reasons why to act now.

Tight controls on inventory through commercial permits make these areas available only to a limited few every year. While Western River Expeditions escorts more people down the Colorado River on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah and Arizona than any other rafting operator in the country, Western River, as well as other commercial tour operators, has to abide by the limits set by government-issued permits. These coveted seats are being snapped up quicker than ever before by an unprecedented surge of demand following months of COVID lockdown, record-breaking heat waves that beg for water-based recreation, and an exploding demand to visit America’s national parks.

As a result, Western River Expeditions has filled all Grand Canyon slots for 2021. Many departures for 2022 are sold out and others are very close to selling out. If you’re looking to raft the Grand Canyon in 2022, Western recommends checking availability online now for the Grand Canyon 3 & 4-Day Expeditions at https://www.westernriver.com. The company also suggests looking at Cataract Canyon, just upstream from Grand Canyon.

“While Cataract Canyon doesn’t carry the same name recognition as Grand Canyon, the scenery and whitewater along this section of the Colorado River through Canyonlands National Park are absolutely stunning,” says Brandon Lake, CMO for Western River Expeditions. “Guests can often find some availability on a Cataract Canyon expedition when Grand Canyon may be sold out.”

If a 2022 trip is not in the cards, mark your calendar for 2023! Western River Expeditions’ Grand Canyon trips for 2023 go on sale (tentatively) on Nov. 30, 2021.

Cataract Canyon itineraries, which are more impacted by spring runoff than the dam-controlled flow through the Grand Canyon, are in demand for the high-water trips of May and June 2022. See dates and availability at https://www.westernriver.com/cataract-canyon-rafting.

For 2023 in the Grand Canyon, these options exist:

Even though hearts may be set on the longer 6 and 7-day options, itineraries of 3 and 4 days are easier to come by. These shorter trips are more popular with families with young teens and first-time canyon rafters. Space is still available for these trips for April-September 2022.

For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2021/2022 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669) or visit the website at: http://www.westernriver.com/.

About Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions 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 and Idaho rafting, and international multi-sport 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 the past seventeen consecutive years (2004-2020).

# # #

Media Contact:

For 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: 720.301.3822 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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?

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

 

Seven Tips to Beat the Heat on a Rafting Adventure with Western River Expeditions

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Released on Tuesday, 06 July 2021 12:26

SALT LAKE CITY, July 6, 2021– With record heat covering the West you need a strategy if you want to enjoy the outdoors. The master of rafting vacations, Western River Expeditions, offers seven out-of-the-box tips for how to stay cool on a summer vacation.

“Hot and dry means people want to get onto and into the water,” said Kam Wixom, Marketing Director and veteran guide. “Our staff and clients have come up some great tips over the years that help keep us all comfortable when the temperatures get extreme.”

Wixom recalls the summer of 1997 when temperatures in the Grand Canyon reached 123 degrees Fahrenheit. Already playing out this summer were higher-than-usual temperatures in the West.

“We bought the newspaper just to prove to others back home that we (easily) survived some of the hottest temperatures we’d ever experienced. The thing is, we really did survive it easily. Here’s how.”

  1. Full Body Immersion– Get yourself soaked in the cold Colorado River. Linger in the water to reduce your core body temperature.
  2. Wear Only Cotton– We often think of quick-drying fabrics when we’re near the water, but to stay cool when you’re near water and temperatures are soaring, think cotton. This fabric, unlike synthetics, retains water, keeping you wet and cool. Choose cotton when it comes to bandanas, hats, neck scarves and sarongs.
  3. Drink Lots of Water– Stay properly hydrated by drinking two ounces of water for every ounce of alcohol or caffeine. And even before you’re thirsty – drink water. Sodas are diuretics that can cancel out hydration, so don’t think you’re only drinking soda to stay hydrated.
  4. Electrolytes Matter-- You can drink all the water you want, but if you are not coupling it with electrolytes (vitamins and minerals), you still run a risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Yes, munch on salty potato chips and sugary cookies at lunch or take along some electrolyte tablets. They come in a variety of brands and flavors.
  5. Wear a Hat– Instead of putting earth-friendly sunscreen on your forehead (which often ends up in your eyes), wear a hat to keep the sun from pounding on your head. A hat can help protect from heatstroke and it protects your eyes.
  6. Indulge in a Sarong– Western River Expeditions stocks sarongs in its company store, Red Rock Outfitters. Sarongs are actually loved by both women and men as they can be easily dipped in the water and draped wet across your whole body.
  7. Start a Water Fight!– Not that we are endorsing rowdy behavior, but a couple of water cannons and bail buckets are good items to bring along and use on a surprise attack on an unsuspecting neighboring raft. The goal is to drench your opponents, a welcome outcome on a hot day!

It is still not too late to secure a spot on a raft trip this year. Contact Western River Expeditions today for a full list of available trips and dates at 801-942-6669 or visit www.westernriver.comto check availability online.

For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2021 catalog, questions, videos, maps, availability, and reservations visit http://www.westernriver.com/. Or call: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669).

About Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions 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 and Idaho rafting, and international multi-sport 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 the past sixteen consecutive years (2004-2019).

# # #

Media Contact:

For 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: 720.301.3822 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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?

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

Western River Expeditions Says Come for the Whitewater Thrills, Be Amazed by the Off-River Hikes

Details
Released on Wednesday, 02 June 2021 15:40

SALT LAKE CITY, June 2, 2021 – Western River Expeditions, over its 60 years of commercial river running, has mastered the art of combining the elements – water, land, air and sky– into some of the world’s most sought-after adventure vacations.

This company’s particular alchemy mixes up whitewater thrills and opportunities for some exceptional hiking in the fresh air. “Folks love to run the rapids with us, but truth is, some people come rafting just to go hiking and see sites that are only accessible by river,” explains Brandon Lake, co-owner of Western River Expeditions.

Following are four whitewater destinations that provide unique access to hiking trails so remote they are generally only reached via the river through the conveyance of a raft.

Cataract Canyon - Colorado River, Utah www.westernriver.com/cataract-canyon-rafting

Indian Creek Falls

  • River Mile 31
  • 3.5-miles roundtrip
  • Vertical gain of 100 feet

This is the hike to take to view a spectacular seasonal waterfall, towering 2,000-foot canyon walls, and Native American ruins. After an easy streamside walk, guests are treated to The Falls - a thundering 20-foot cascade that’s best in the spring when runoff and seasonal rains create an impressive stream flow. Ancestral Puebloan rock art and well-preserved granaries along the way speak to past lives. Modern adventurers can soak under the falls, dip in the natural pool, or partake in a round of butt slides.

Loop Hike

  • River Mile 36.5
  • 1.3-mile Length
  • Vertical gain of 400 feet

Another must-do hike is the Loop Hike offering anup-and-over adventure through a saddle in the canyon wall that crosses a horseshoe bend in the river which eliminates four miles of river travel. Hikers gain impressive views as they scramble over a large ridge at the base of a massive curve in the river.

Desolation Canyon – Green River, Utah www.westernriver.com/desolation-canyon

Rock Creek Ranch Trail

  • River Mile 41
  • Short hike

An easy trail from the river leads to Rock Creek Ranch, site of a former hideaway on the Outlaw Trail where Butch Cassidy and his gang of desperados were known to have holed-up. Built in 1914 by the Seamont family, this ranch in the deepest part of Desolation Canyon served as homestead, orchard and outpost. Unrestored buildings display century-old homemaking and farming equipment.  Although abandoned in the 1920s, ancient orchards still bear fruit come August. Be sure to visit the outstanding petroglyphs and ancient granaries nearby.

Three Canyon Hikes

  • River Mile 54
  • Various options for length and elevation gain

Here, three secluded canyons come together creating an abundance of exploring opportunities. The Three Canyon Loop hike follows a route around a large butte just behind camp. From camp, a 20-minute walk from the river leads to a natural bridge.  Following a trail for an hour hike from camp leads to the Three Canyon Overlook, one of the most spectacular views in the canyon. From the overlook you can see two miles upriver. Only for the avid, this is a fairly strenuous hike.

Grand Canyon (Upper Section), Colorado River www.westernriver.com/grand-canyon-vacation

Nankoweap Canyon and Granaries

  • River Mile 53
  • Two-mile roundtrip hike
  • Elevation gain of 700 feet

A trail from camp below the mouth of Nankoweap Canyon leads hikers up a steep slope to one of the most sought-after views the canyon has to offer. Above this viewpoint in the limestone walls under an overhang sit four granaries, or storage units built and utilized by Native Americans. These canyon dwellers practiced hunting and gathering in the canyon and grew crops roughly 1,000 years ago on the delta below.  At 700 feet above the river, a flat overlook provides a breathtaking vista down-river encompassing a world of towering red canyon walls, sparkling whitewater, and blue sky.

Deer Creek Falls

  • River Mile 136
  • Trail Options from 200 yards to four-miles roundtrip

Just 200 yards from where the rafts are tied-off, Deer Creek Falls thunders into the Colorado River. The 180-foot falls land into a pool perfect for a swim. Adventurous hikers can journey further down a trail to The Patio with sensational Kaibab Plateau views along the way. Reaching The Patio requires careful footwork and cool-headedness to navigate a short narrow ledge with a precarious drop.

Grand Canyon Lower Section, Colorado River www.westernriver.com/grand-canyon-river-trip

Travertine Falls and Grotto

  • River Mile 229
  • Two-mile roundtrip hike

Just a few miles below Diamond Creek, is one of the most special places in the Grand Canyon’s lower Granite Gorge.  Mineral-rich water drops down a waterfall through a narrow canyon and then cascades over a second falls in a setting often described as an oasis. The clear and refreshing waters of Travertine are always a welcome experience in the heat of the Lower Canyon. Then comes a scramble with a little help from ropes and ladders into a magical grotto sprinkled with spring water and a waterfall.

Pumpkin Springs

  • River Mile 213
  • Adjacent to the river (scrambling, no hiking)

A popular stop for all Lower Canyon river trips, Pumpkin Springs can only be accessed by boat. The Springs, because of mineral-laden water and constant evaporation, has created a travertine dome or bowl resembling a gigantic pumpkin. Water pours into the top of the pumpkin, turns a murky green, and then runs over the sides and into the river below. This is a fantastic spot for cliff jumping into the river.

For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2021 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669) or visit the recently enhanced website at: http://www.westernriver.com/.

About Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions 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 and Idaho rafting, and international multi-sport 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 the past seventeen consecutive years (2004-2020).

# # #

Media Contact:

For 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: 720.301.3822 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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?

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