SALT LAKE CITY, April 1, 2016 –Compelling visitors to stick around and be awed by the content then be inspired to act is the raison d’etre of any travel website.
That’s why veteran whitewater rafting outfitter Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) recently engaged the expertise of Resmark Interactive, to create a new, mobile and tablet-integrated website with 360 degree imagery and VR video capabilities that went live this week.
“Our goal with Western River Expeditions was to provide a rich environment for visitors to plan their next adventure,” says Chad Allen, Co-Founder of Resmark Interactive. For a before and after see: http://www.resmarkinteractive.com/western-river
“The result is the most advanced, ground-breaking website for adventure travel and rafting to date,” adds Brandon Lake, Western River Expeditions’ CMO. He says the site is both user and mobile friendly, fresh and non-cluttered with a graphically pleasing design and “very intuitive navigation”. It features galleries of interactive 360 videos and photography and includes detailed maps, offers in-depth trip preparation advice and guest testimonials. When a visitor to the site has questions, a Western River Expeditions sales consultant is available on an easy link Live Chat.
WRE’s new site will soon be adding mile-by-mile river highlights of the Colorado and Green Rivers, both favorite river rafting destinations for this this company that escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona’s Grand Canyon than any other outfitter.
By making the new website fully mobile and smartphone compatible visitors will be able to fully utilize the 360 degree virtual reality video capabilities. Users will need to attach their device to a VR viewer such as Oculus Rift, Samsung Gear VR or an inexpensive Cardboard VR headset for viewing. Cardboard headsets are as inexpensive as $5 on Amazon and fairly easy to assemble. Examples of Western’s 360 videos can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIpdP8IBIjfLb4y9qFhwQ02jJMzYtw8PW
In addition to 360 virtual reality, the site delivers a host of I-want-to-be-here-now photos in an expanded photo gallery. Site visitors can dip in and out of over 3,000 stories and client reviews/testimonials about what it’s like to be on a river, rafting, and sleeping under the stars.
“Since our inception in 1961, Western River Expeditions has taken immense pride in taking clients down rivers safely while providing an exceptional level of customer service. When the time came to revamp our website, we wanted to tell our unique story while continuing to be a leader in the industry by creating a one-of-a-kind online experience that works and displays brilliantly on all devices,” notes Lake.
Add to that the fact that, Resmark Interactive was able to help Western River Expeditions achieve a blazing-fast page speed score of 85 (which is quite commendable for an image-rich travel website), and the user experience has been greatly enhanced as well.
Trips on this site are arranged by destination, with duration and price front and center. Along with the launch of the new website the company is introducing its very first foray abroad. New for the 2016 season are river and beach adventures in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica 9 Day Adventure Package is from $3,295 per person double for trips that begin and end in San Jose. The season runs from December through April 2017. Guests (minimum age 12) in paddle boats traverse 16 miles through 38 class III-IV rapids on the Pacuare River bound for a luxurious eco-lodge for candlelit dinners, a canopy adventure and hikes to stunning waterfalls before rafting downriver to the next destination, the base of the towering volcano, Arenal. Here thermally heated waterfalls and pools and a rainforest immersion on 15 suspension bridges surrounded by monkeys, iguanas, sloths and birds, whet appetites for the to-come Manuel Antonio National Park, named one of the world’s most beautiful national parks by Forbes. Here guests can frolic in the sand and surf. See: http://westernriver.com/costa-rica-vacation-package.
For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2016 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669), or visit the 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 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.
# # #
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: 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?
On Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/westernriver/
SALT LAKE CITY, Feb. 18, 2016 –Veteran outfitter Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) has in its 50-plus years of operating whitewater expeditions introduced thousands to rafting on the Colorado River and enroute to three of the nation’s most coveted national parks: Arches (UT), Canyonlands (UT) and Grand Canyon (AZ).
2016 marks the Centennial Anniversary of the National Park System and expectations are for a record year for visitation as throngs participate in a national park activity, www.findyourpark.com. Western River Expeditions and its sister company, Moab Adventure Center in Moab, UT, offer a variety of programs centered on the mighty Colorado, the fifth longest river in North America, and along park trails and back roads.
From its source in a wooded meadow just north of Grand Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park to the Gulf of California in Baja, Mexico, the Colorado River begins as a stream and gains prominence as it flows through the Colorado Rockies and enters Utah, flowing a total of 1,450 miles touching the southern border of Arches National Park and coursing through the heart of both Canyonlands and Grand Canyon National Parks.
Following are programs accessing this river and the national parks it touches. The company advises, however, that because of high demand (especially in the Grand Canyon), people should plan and book as early as possible or accept the fact that they may not be able to secure a space until the 2017 season.
Off-river in Arches National Park visitors may sign up for Moab’s must-do hike in the maze-like Fiery Furnace, accessible only when accompanied by an experienced guide. Moab Adventure Center naturalist guides lead two-hour hikes in this trackless area, pointing out hidden attractions such as Surprise and Twin Arches as guests marvel at contorted orange-tan fins, towers, spires and arches. A moderately strenuous hike. http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/trips/national-park/archeshike.php.
An Arches guided and narrated Sunset Bus Tour presents the famous Balanced Rock, Courthouse Towers, La Sal Mountains, Petrified Dunes, and Panorama Point plus short guided walks to the North and South Window Arches, Turret Arch, as well as the legendary Delicate Arch Overlook. The views only get better as the setting sun paints the surrounding sandstone monoliths and La Sal Mountains spectacular shades of color. http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/trips/national-park/arches-bus-tour.php
Canyonlands National Park is vast and remote, but two rafting and flightseeing programs provide effortless access. Cataract Canyon Classic – 4 Day Whitewater Rafting Trip begins 30 minutes south of Moab for a Colorado River voyage that winds deep through canyons and past Dead Horse Point State Park where, beyond the confluence of the Colorado and Green rivers, guests experience nature in its most rugged and pristine form, revealing dwellings and carvings from ancient civilizations and coming head to head with world-famous class III-V whitewater. The way out is by air. http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/trips/rafting/moab-rafting-cataract-canyon-classic/
For time-challenged travelers Cataract Canyon 2 Day Express carries guests on a customized motorized raft. This journey through the series of nearly 30 whitewater rapids that make Cataract Canyon legendary ends on the still waters of Lake Powell. http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/trips/rafting/moab-rafting-cataract-canyon-express/
New this year is a 70-minute flight-seeing adventure out of Moab. Arches and Canyonlands National Parks Flightseeing Tour reveals the best of Canyonlands National Park including Upheaval Dome, Green River Goose Neck, the White Rim, The Maze, the Confluence of the Colorado and Green Rivers. In Arches National Park guests view Devil’s Garden, Landscape Arch, Klondike Bluffs and iconic Fisher Towers. http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/trips/flights/arches-national-park-scenic-flight.php
Grand Canyon National Park was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Rated among the top 10 rafting expeditions in the world, Western’s Grand Canyon Rafting – 6 and 7 Days traverses 187 miles in a week’s time, digging deeper daily into geologic time, with side canyon hikes revealing ancient Anasazi ruins and tumbling waterfalls. Scenery here, already astounding, is enhanced by the thrill of over 60 major rapids. Western’s unique motorized J-Rig rafts, designed for maximum excitement and safety, tackle the biggest with ease. http://www.westernriver.com/trips/grand6day/
A shorter option perfect for beginners is Grand Canyon 3 Day that covers the lower 100 miles of the canyon to its end at Lake Mead. Guests have easy access from Las Vegas. http://www.westernriver.com/trips/grand3day/
For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2016 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669), or visit: 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 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.
# # #
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: 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?
On Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/westernriver/
SALT LAKE CITY, Jan. 5, 2015 – Veteran outfitter Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) has in its 50-plus years of operating whitewater expeditions racked up more guest user days on two iconic rivers in the West than any other business or individual out there.
Their seasoned guides are keepers of fact and lore about the Colorado and Green rivers where seasonally they secure adventure vacations by raft for thousands of thrill-seeking guests annually. Here are some of the more interesting tidbits….
Colorado River Facts
Rafting vacations range from half-day to week-long options on the Colorado River. National Geographic calls a Westwater Canyon trip on the Colorado-Utah border “The West’s Best Short Whitewater Trip. This day program for ages 12 and up is priced at $180 per person on a choice of spirited oar-powered or paddle boats. Guides expertly row through exciting waves and swirling pools dwarfed by stunningly beautiful and unique black, gold and red canyon walls of Westwater Canyon in southern Utah. Available April-October. http://www.westernriver.com/trips/westwater1day/
Another short adventure is on a choice of paddle rafts or inflatable kayaks on the Upper Colorado out of Moab. Ages 5 and up can participate, with prices at $89 per adult and $69 per child. Available March-October. http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/trips/rafting/full.php
A three-hour jet boat option explores the calm water sections down river from Moab. Guests witness remote canyons of exquisite beauty, a petrified forest, fossil beds, spectacular rock cliffs, Indian ruins, arches, petroglyphs, Thelma and Louise Point and Dead Horse Point. Ages 4 and up are welcomed. Prices are $89 adults and $79 youth. Available March-October. http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/trips/jetboat/jetboat.php
A four-day program offers Class III-V rapids in Cataract Canyon in Canyonlands National Park, south of Moab. Included is a majestic setting called “The Confluence” where the Colorado and Green Rives meet. At trip’s end, a flight over Canyonlands National Park returns guests to Moab. Prices are $1,425 adults; $1065 youth. Available May-August. http://www.westernriver.com/trips/cataract/
Over six or seven days guests can raft 187 miles through Grand Canyon National Park on motorized J-Rig rafts. This canyon ride, spliced with daily hikes through Anasazi territory, showcases dark and narrow passages followed by thundering waterfalls in luminous free fall. Rates vary by season but begin at $2,699. Available April-September. http://www.westernriver.com/trips/grand6day/
Green River Facts
Green River rafting adventures include four days in Lodore Canyon, a sanctuary for bighorn sheep, deer and birds of prey. Guests explore Dinosaur National Monument along with the whitewater. Rates are from $935. Available May-September. http://www.bikeraft.com/colorado-river-rafting/lodore-canyon/
A five-day adventure in Desolation Canyon begins with a scenic flight from Moab, UT. This rafting trip utilizes two-person inflatable kayaks and guided oar boats to explore 60 fun-filled rapids, outlaw hideouts, dinosaur habitats and Fremont Native American petroglyphs. The rate is from $1,555 adult; $995 minimum age 5. Available May-August. http://www.westernriver.com/trips/green/
For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2015-2016 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669), or visit: 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 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.
# # #
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: 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?
On Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/westernriver/
SALT LAKE CITY, Oct. 21, 2015– With another successful season now in the books, Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) has turned its attention to 2016 and the on-going challenge of attracting first timers to the sport of river rafting. What they have discovered over their 50+ years of outfitting is that simple fear of the unknown often hinders enjoyment of one of the best experiences in life – like river rafting. Over decades of dealing with client concerns and misconceptions, the nation’s leading river company has compiled common questions while offering suggestions to assuage doubts and fears.
Here are some of the top questions asked by first-time river rafters:
If camping is part of a rafting vacation, how rough will it be? It’s really deluxe catered camping on the river. For example, on a Grand Canyon rafting adventure guests sleep on comfortable cots in freshly laundered sleeping bags and sheets in roomy tents. A portable toilet and hand wash system are set up each day in camp in a secluded location that assures privacy.
Going through the whitewater rapids will I fall out of the boat? Whitewater can range from a ripple to a huge splash. The 5 Day Green River – Desolation Canyon trip in Utah is more about playful rapids, petroglyphs and outlaw hideouts than challenges. Here guests (wearing certified PFD, i.e. lifejacket) can paddle a two-person inflatable kayak or relax in an oar boat while Western’s guides take guests down river. Class I to III fun-filled rapids make this Green River rafting trip the ideal getaway for a first time river adventure. The minimum age is just five.
Where and how do I take care of nature’s business? As stated earlier, camp bathrooms are open air, sanitary, private and scenic. However, one adventure in Oregon, 3 or 4 Day Rogue River Lodge to Lodge, delivers a perfect blend of wildlife and wilderness with the cozy charm of cabin comforts like private rooms and bathrooms. The minimum age is five. No camping required.
I’m not a really great swimmer. How do I deal with that? You are in good company as many rafters aren’t great swimmers. The life jacket and ample hand and foot holds provide security and support on the water; however it is important that you’re at least able to propel yourself through the water with your arms and legs while wearing a life jacket. Another option is to do a package that offers mild rafting as just one of the experiences. Western River’s sister company Moab Adventure Center offers the Southwest Sampler – Colorado River, Utah, a multi-sport vacation package for guests to raft (2 day trip on very easy stretch of the Colorado River), hike and tour Arches National Park with a sunset Hummer 4x4 adventure to boot.
Am I fit enough for a raft vacation? What’s too young? What’s too old? The wilderness around may be rugged, but that doesn’t mean guests have to be. A trip popular for ages six to 86 is the 5 Day Main Salmon River, Idaho. More moderate whitewater on this stretch of a mile-deep canyon makes this river trip a perfect introduction to rafting and camping without sacrificing any of the grandeur. Oar boats allow guests to just ride along letting the guide do the muscle work while enjoying the passing scenery.
Do I need to plan an entire week for a rafting get-away? Day trips can be ideal for a first-time river rafter. The Utah: Colorado Full Day comes with a riverside BBQ lunch at Red Cliffs Ranch and a choice of boats: a spot in a paddle raft or a two-person inflatable kayak.California: South Fork of the American River satisfies thrill-seekers and families alike. Up in Montana there’s the Flathead River which offers half, full and multi-day trips bordering Glacier National Park. In West Virginia, a half- or full-day trip on the New River can be either challenging or calm, depending on the stretch of river selected.
“The important thing is to not be bullied by your fear of rafting,” says Brandon Lake, CMO of Western River Expeditions. “Rafting can be a life-changing experience for many first-timers willing to set their anxieties aside.” The next important thing may be to book your trip now for the 2016 season. Lake reports limited space already in the Grand Canyon with other destinations looking very popular as well.
For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2016 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669), or visit: 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 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.
# # #
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: 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?
On Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/westernriver/
Reservations Now Open for 2016 - a Year That May Experience Record Spring Runoff Due to Predicted Effects of an Unusually Strong El Niño
SALT LAKE CITY, Sept. 8, 2015 – Where’s the wild water on the mighty Colorado River?
The legendary Colorado River is just another float trip until it crashes into Westwater Canyon just over the Utah/Colorado border and upstream from Moab, UT, says whitewater rafting pioneer Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/). After this introductory splash, named by National Geographic as “The West’s best short whitewater run,” the Colorado River gains momentum and a well-earned reputation for some real kick-in-the-butt, whitewater rapids that live deep down in the Canyonlands of Utah (Cataract Canyon) and farther down in the Grand Canyon of Arizona.
While every commercial boatman has his or her own favorite, the team at Western River Expeditions got together and agreed upon their top eight most beloved rapids along the course of the Colorado River. While there’s still time to enjoy a trip this season, reservations are already open for 2016, a year that may experience the best spring runoff on record thanks to the predicted effects of an unusually strong El Niño, adds Brandon Lake, CMO of Western River Expeditions.
8. House Rock Rapid, mile 17, Grand Canyon (rated 8/10 on the Grand Canyon’s 1-10 scale): House Rock is a fun left side run along a sheer canyon wall, with a great hole at the bottom. Rafters can grab as much or as little of the hole as they want. This rapid is a good indicator of what is to come in the way of hits further down river.
7. Skull Rapid, Westwater Canyon (rated Class IV+): Tight canyon walls and a big rock in the middle create a big hole and wave, both obstacles difficult to avoid. Rock of Shock is a canyon wall that splits the current immediately below the initial hole. Billow to the left and you’re done. Billow to right and you enter the “Room of Doom” carved out of the right side wall by the vortex created by the split current from the Rock of Shock.
6. Hance Rapid, mile 76.5, Grand Canyon (rated 10/10): Just before the Colorado River descends into the ‘inner gorge’ of the Grand Canyon, it is strained through a wide rock garden known as Hance Rapid. Smaller boats can sneak a line through the left side between medium sized pour-overs and car sized boulders. The typical run enters from the right then quickly darts toward the ‘Duck Pond’ in the center to avoid the main pull of current that cascades over a mess of house-sized boulders just right of center. Below the duck pond is a wedge run between two pour-overs. Anything outside of that pinball line in the center of the froth leads to holding on tight while possibly banging through sideways or even backwards. From a passenger’s perspective it’s a fun ride like most other rapids, but the guide really sweats it out in Hance!
5. Big Drop 3, Cataract Canyon (rated Class IV): After Big Drop 2 comes Big Drop 3. In high water, Big Drop 2 and 3 basically merge into just one enormous drop. Left of center in Big Drop 3 is a place to avoid called Satan’s Gut. Often the National Park Service will have in high water levels a rescue boat hanging around the Big Drops -- for good reason.
4. Big Drop 2, Cataract Canyon (rated Class IV): In the spring, with flows of over 50,000 cubic feet per second, it is perhaps the largest of the largest whitewater in North America -- even surpassing that of the Grand Canyon. When a high water year does happen once a decade or so, it is not an overstatement to say the waves in Big Drop 2 and 3 are nearly three stories high. In regular to low water flows the rapids of Cataract Canyon calm down but are exciting none-the-less with difficult rock mazes, punctuated with hard-hitting whitewater. When John Wesley Powell and his men first encountered these gnarly rapids back in late summer of 1869, they lacked the skill and equipment to joyfully navigate them. They lined their boats around all of them, and spoke only of the toil and labor. But today it’s more fun to run them! As rafters set up for Big Drop 2 the river drops out of view. Little Niagara appears on river right; this is a pour over to avoid without dodging too far to the left. The risk is being swallowed by Satan’s Gut where Big Drop 2 flows immediately into Big Drop 3.
3. Hermit Rapid, mile 95, Grand Canyon (rated 8/10): What Hermit Rapid lacks in appellation, it makes up for in pure ride. Roughly eight massive roller-coaster-like waves line up with a ‘sky-is-falling’ crescendo on the last one. Adventurers emerge (soaked) with an adrenaline surge they’ve likely never experienced before. Some smaller boats are compelled to avoid the largest of these rolling compression waves but a good oarsman or kayaker who can match the momentum of the wave may get a smaller craft through without getting flipped. Western’s J-Rig rafts were designed with large water rapids in mind, and the J-Rig really shines in Hermit. The way it flexes over the waves with its two-part frame system enhances the ride like no other raft.
2. Lava Falls Rapid, mile 179, Grand Canyon (rated 10/10): Lava Falls has a big reputation. Before Crystal came along this was the premier drama-maker. This rapid, sometimes called “Vulcan”, is what is left from dinosaur days of a 500-foot-high lava dam across the river. Today the 15-foot-high and 30-foot-wide ledge hole is enough to strip boats of all their inhabitants, gear, frames, straps and inflation. Although some YouTube fame-seekers have tried (and failed) to prove otherwise, there is no middle run through Lava Falls. It is a big run on the right side of the ledge hole through the boat-swallowing V-wave and then through unpredictably rolling seas that build and crash against the house-sized chunk of lava at the bottom right known as “Big Bertha.” There’s a lot of water, a lot of drop and a very dangerous ledge hole at the top. Knowing where to be and where not to be, and knowing where you are in relation to either of those is the key to any rapid. This one can be very deceiving from above. Whether upside-down or right-side up, don’t underestimate “Son of Lava” just downstream of the tail waves. The left-side run is a narrow Vulcan “trick” with some unpleasant consequences if you don’t get the line just right.
1. Crystal Rapid, mile 99, Grand Canyon (rated a 10/10): All Grand Canyon rafting trips are informally measured in two parts, above Crystal and below Crystal. Many “ABC Parties” (Alive Below Crystal) have been celebrated on any one of the beaches below this rapid. Rated a pure 10 (comparable to a class V+ in the international scale) it begins with a long glossy v-shaped tongue that pours directly into one of the biggest waves in the Grand Canyon.
In the catastrophic flood year of 1983 this hole was said to be roughly three stories high from trough to crest. Though considerably smaller today, it is still a factor. The sinewy lateral wave on river right is tough to break through, and many boats prefer to take their chances squaring up to the big wave anyway. Beyond that, much of the current careens for the Slate Creek wall that interrupts the current from the left side, throwing a lateral wave that pitches rafters either squarely into the “Maytag Hole” (so named because it likes to tumble small boats, non-stop, like a washing machine) or spitting them out directly atop Crystal’s acre-sized rock garden. The garden is marked by a large boulder named “Big Red” (a.k.a Shelob) that lies in wait like a giant red-bellied black widow spider for any neophytes unlucky enough to get trapped in her web.
For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2015-2016 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669), or visit: 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 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.
# # #
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: 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?
On Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/westernriver/
SALTLAKE CITY, July 27, 2015 – Whitewater rafting pioneer Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) combines some of the West’s wildest rivers with lodge accommodations – instead of camping – for those preferring to forego the stars overhead for a comfy bed and roof.
“We get that camping isn’t everyone’s cup of tea,” says Brandon Lake, Vice President and CMO of Western River Expeditions. “Some prefer to enjoy the pristine wildness of the river and canyons during the day then tuck into a real bed, instead of sleeping under the stars at night.”
Following are rivers in Oregon, Utah and Arizona where the comforts of home combine with the thrills of world-class whitewater:
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 legendary waterway is classified Class II-IV. Rogue River 3 & 4 Day rafting trips start at $955 per adult, double. Youth age 5-17 start at $795 for a three day trip. On Day 1 guests witness the gently flowing Rogue breaking from its slumber at a rapid called Grave Creek that marks the congressionally designated Wild & Scenic section for rafting the Rogue River. Guests walk around a Class V rapid named Ranie Falls. Regional crafted beers and wines are enjoyed late afternoons at the riverside lodges, followed by family-style dinners. The chatter is about the great swimming holes and of course the rapids and what’s next. The rate includes rafting, hiking, lodging and all meals from departure to the end of the trip.
Utah’s Westwater Canyon on the Colorado River is the location for Western’s active 4 Day Westwater Multisport Adventure. Guests enjoy a variety of activities based from Red Cliffs Lodge, a secluded riverside hideaway 14 miles upstream from Moab, Utah. This adventure program combines an exploration of National Parks through Moab Adventure Center with a day of rafting Westwater Canyon on the Colorado River, a trip labeled “The West’s Best Short Whitewater Trip” by National Geographic. The rate from $685 per person, double (youth 12-15 are $635), includes three nights at Red Cliffs Lodge, a Hummer safari, rafting on the Colorado, hiking, optional horseback riding, daily breakfast and one lunch and dinner, plus transfers from Moab.
In Arizona, Western River’s Grand Canyon Rafting - 4 Day River & Ranch is sold out for 2015, but reservations are now being taken for 2016. This trip explores regions of Grand Canyon National Park accessible only from the river. Guests enjoy, among other accommodations, an overnight at Bar 10 Ranch on the Grand Canyon rim. Horseback riding and cowboys are part of the land-based scene. This adventure begins in early May and continues through mid-September. The per person double rate is from $1,731. Youth ages 9 and up are accommodated. The whitewater in this section of the canyon is more moderate than on Western’s Upper Canyon 6 Day trips.
For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669), or visit: http://www.westernriver.com/. For more information on Moab Adventure Center please call (435) 259-7019 or (866) 904-1163 or visit http://www.moabadventurecenter.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.
Western River Expeditions, providing Grand Canyon rafting, Utah rafting, Oregon, 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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Media Contact:
For 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.
Website and portfolio of past releases: http://www.travelnewssource.com/
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Colorado River Drainage Snowpack Goes from 41% of Normal on May 5 to 141% of Normal on June 2
SALT LAKE CITY, June 4, 2015– Late spring snow pack and rains bode well for river rafting vacations this season on the Colorado River System, reports Western River Expeditions.
This river system, built by flows from numerous western rivers, is providing as of now, positive impact on the company’s roster of trips on the Green and Colorado Rivers in Utah and Arizona. On the Green River these are adventures through Desolation Canyon, and on the Colorado River, trips through Westwater and Cataract Canyons. Trips in the Grand Canyon are also impacted because hydrologists anticipate increased releases from dams that affect river flows.
“A few weeks ago, we were looking at a very low water year. We were planning for it, we had prepared the guides and the gear for it, then it started to rain down low and snow up high. On May 5 the snowpack in the Upper Colorado River Basin was sitting at 41% of normal making it one of the driest years ever. Two weeks later, it had increased to 75% on average with some areas exceeding 100%. This is an unprecedented gain of snowpack so late in the water season,” said Brian Merrill, CEO of Western River Expeditions.
More snow in the mountains means more water in the rivers, and this company is now anticipating what Merrill called “a fantastic year.” After the snow began falling, “we quickly made adjustments in what style of rafts we will be using and the river guides are happy as clams. Judging from the reviews we are getting from our guests, they are also ecstatic about the predicted water levels.”
He added that the snowpack also represents an unexpected boost for the reservoirs on the Colorado River. Water managers are revising upwards predictions about lake levels that feed into this system including Lakes Powell and Mead, a boost for water-based recreation all along the Colorado River system.
As of the start of June, snowpack on the entire Colorado River System stood at 141.52% of the June 2 historic average. Only a few weeks ago the figures were discouraging as snowpack in the Colorado River basin stood at just a fraction of that. For up-to-the-minute snowpack reports see: http://snowpack.water-data.com/uppercolorado/index.php
“We want to get this upbeat report out to rafting enthusiasts who may be concerned that the drought menacing California waters has spread into other river systems in the western United States,” added Merrill. “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.”
For a copy of the 2015 Western River Expeditions catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669), or visit: http://www.westernriver.com/. For more information on Moab Adventure Center please call (435) 259-7019 or (866) 904-1163 or send an email from http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/contact/.
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 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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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: 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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New Video Technology Produces Groundbreaking Virtual-Reality Experience
SALT LAKE CITY, April 6, 2015– After a decade of development, planning and collaboration, a groundbreaking 360º interactive video of a Western River Expeditions J-Rig adventure through the Grand Canyon is now available for viewing.
When this video http://www.westernriver.com/360/ is viewed on a desktop or laptop computer (not yet available on iPhone and iPad), viewers can see around the entire "sphere of view" surrounding the 360º camera. If running Chrome on a newer Android phone, the experience is even more stunning. One can actually move the phone around to look up and down the river, up at the cliffs, or down at the boat and water. Regardless of the device used, viewers are advised to watch the video in its highest resolution and in full screen mode.
The filming took place last August, but the idea came 10 years ago when a former river rafting guide on the Colorado River stood on the rim of the Grand Canyon. 360 Labs cofounder Thomas Hayden was on a road trip across North America for a project that would later become Google StreetView. When confronted with the abyss below, he knew that the shots he really wanted in this new 360º medium were going to be down in the center of it all, on the river itself. It took nearly 10 years for the technology to become compact and rugged enough to bring on a whitewater river trip. Today 360 Labs uses the ubiquitous GoPro cameras, with a few modifications, on specially designed, 3D printed mounts to capture the 360º field of view around the camera. The viewer can either click and drag on their desktops or simply move their mobile device (Android) to look around the sphere of video content.
"What we do, photographers have been doing for over 100 years. Taking multiple images, side by side, with a bit of overlap and matching them together to get a wider field of view. With today's digital technology in both hardware and software, we are now able to stitch all possible angles together and do it with up to 60 frames per second video." said Hayden.
Doug Holton, another 360º photographer in the Denver area, and Hayden, at the request of Western River Expeditions, took on the shooting challenge together, arriving at Lee's Ferry with dozens of cameras and specialized rigging for shooting in 360º, wide angle lenses and panoramic tripod mounts as well as their standard photography kits. Holton's mission was to shoot 360º photographs while the party was on land, and Hayden's mission was to shoot 360º video while on the river over a six-day trip. For the 360º video, Hayden had 20 GoPro cameras and 90 batteries for them, knowing that solar recharging on the scale he might need would not be reliable so deep in the Inner Gorge. Various camera mounting positions on board the Western Rivers J-Rig boats were experimented with, but Hayden and the Western guides settled on a center mast position high over the boat for the clearest view of the river features as well as maintaining anonymity for the Western guests onboard.
360 Labs recorded over 100 named rapids through the Grand Canyon in 360º on the 2014 trip and will use the footage for a variety of projects and products. Their first, after delivering this edit to Western and YouTube, will be a virtual reality (VR) documentary about the proposed controversial development at the Little Colorado Confluence.
"We want to show that VR is much, much more than just cool." Hayden said of the documentary project, which 360 Labs will post on Kickstarter soon. "VR 360º video is, right now, the next best thing to actually being there, and anyone who sees this place, as it is, can't help but want to protect this river."
The 360º "postcard views" from calmer waters of the river trip soon plunge viewers into some of the Colorado Rivers biggest rapids including Hance, Granite and Hermit.
Hang on tight to your desk or mobile device, this is a wild ride!
Western River Expeditions has guided more guests through the famous gorge over the last 54 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.
Of course the new video technology is awesome but Western River reminds us nothing will ever compare to the real experience of running the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. Adventurers may claim one of the few remaining spots for 2015 or book the adventure now for the 2016 season (April-September). For availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669), or visit: 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 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
# # #
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/
SALT LAKE CITY, UT, March 18, 2015 – A Grand Canyon rafting vacation on the Colorado River is, yes, an immersion in world-class rapids and catered camping under the stars. But after three, six or seven days on the Colorado River guests are swimming in mythology, geology and natural history of the Wild West.
Much of the “eddy”fication comes while exploring grottos and escarpments during planned side canyon hikes of 15 minutes to three hours on Western River Expeditions’ May through September three, six and seven-day programs (priced from $1,396 per person for a three-day trip to $2,962 for a seven day journey).
Western River Expeditions asked its veteran guides for a list of their favorite off-river hikes or sites in the Grand Canyon. Following are 10 explorations marked by river mile while rafting downstream from the put-in at Lees Ferry enroute to Lake Mead.
Follow this link to Western’s Photo Gallery to see images of these off-river wonders and others: http://www.westernriver.com/trips/grand6day/photos.php.
Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) 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. Grand Canyon river trips usually sell out by early spring for the upcoming summer season. There are just a few seats left for this season and 2016 is already booking strong.
For a copy of the 2015 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669), or visit: 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 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. The company is the proud recipient of the "Best of State" award through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program for nine consecutive years
# # #
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: 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 RiverExpeditions:
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/
Salt Lake City, Feb. 13, 2015– Take heed river rafters. Go not blindly onto that river with children and seniors in tow. Do your homework and make inquiries. Rafting pioneer Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) outlines important questions families should ask before embarking on a river rafting vacation.
“In our 50-plus years of operation, Western River Expeditions has created heirloom memories for literally thousands of families,” said Brian Merrill, CEO. “We’re always learning new things about how to engage parents and children both ashore and on the river. And we love it when families take the time to ask us questions before they make reservations for a rafting adventure.”
Merrill and his staff have heard it all from first time river runners, from “will there be flush toilets and room service?” to “I can’t swim, but can I still go?” To them no question is too silly or inappropriate. Following are a few of the more sensible ones they have heard, questions they suggest anyone considering a raft trip should ask:
First, “Is a raft trip right for me and the family?” If you’ve been eager to get the kids away from an over-civilized world and all its technology and overload, river rafting is a great place to start (hint – no Internet or cell service!).
Once you’ve put the above questions to bed, then ponder:
When you are ready to make a reservation, let the company know the ages and experience levels of participants. The company will guide you. For first timers and young families with ages five to 12, Western River Expeditions recommends a five-day trip on Utah’s Green River or Idaho’s Lower Salmon. For families with children ages nine and up, a three-day trip through the Grand Canyon may be the right fit. Those with children 12 and up have the widest range of options to choose from including Utah’s Cataract Canyon and a full six day trip in the Grand Canyon. Chances are other families will be on these trips and the children have fun interacting and making new friends.
For a copy of the 2015 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669), or visit: 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 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. The company is the proud recipient of the "Best of State" award through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program for nine consecutive years
# # #
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: 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/