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

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Released on Friday, 22 February 2013 11:20

Limited Space Still Available for April, May and August Departures

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Western River Expeditions

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

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

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

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Media Contact:

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6,400 Pound Excavator Tackles the Grand Canyon With Western River Expeditions, Experts at Navigating Rapids

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Released on Thursday, 17 January 2013 08:47

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Jan. 17, 2013– An 89-mile, waterful journey into night recently engaged the Utah-based rafting company, Western River Expeditions http://www.westernriver.com/ in a two-day task called successful when a 6,400-pound Bobcat Excavator was offloaded at its destination at Phantom Ranch on the bottom of the Grand Canyon. 

The project commissioned by Lake Powell Construction & Dev., Inc. of Page, AZ, for the National Park Service required the on-site equipment to replace a portion of underground cable at this popular National Park site. 

“Because only hiking and mule trails access the ranch, the only way to get the excavator here without the cost of an expensive airlift was by floating it down the river,” explained Trent Keller, raft captain for Western River Expeditions. He said the team rigged a (18’ wide x 36’ long) raft that departed Lees Ferry for the first leg of the journey, a 56-mile float to just above Quagant rapid where they pulled the rig over for the night. 

By first light they ran through Quagant, past the Little Colorado River and entered into the Inner Gorge, the deepest part of the Grand Canyon that had been causing Keller sleepless nights. 

Why? 

“This is where the largest rapids we’d face are located,” he said. “We had to back the raft motoring upstream to slow the passage, allowing us more time to maneuver around large waves, holes and rocks. With a lot of creative spins, entries and eddy hopping, it went fine through Georgie, Unkar, Socdolanger, Grapevine and on to Phantom. It was a super-heavy load and made a really slow boat. It didn’t spin well either with the weight heavily concentrated and low in the middle.” 

The raft pulled into Phantom a day ahead of schedule and 55 minutes later the excavator was off-loaded and ready to go to work. The trip normally takes three days by motorized raft and six days by rowed raft. 

“What allowed us to accelerate the trip is the fact that there were no guests on board,” he added. 

“This time the equipment will stay on site,” Keller said. Maneuvering equipment on the river to this site was first accomplished by Keller’s father in 1980. That year, Lynn Keller took a Case 580C Backhoe down river, and then again in the early 2000s by Mark Pierce. When the earliest equipment completed the project, it was helicoptered out in pieces. The second time Western’s crew took it out. 

WesternRiverExpeditions

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

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

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

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Media Contact:

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

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Western River Expeditions Freezes 2012 Rates On Eight Iconic Rafting Expeditions for 2013 If Reservations Made by Sept. 21, 2012

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Released on Wednesday, 12 September 2012 10:29

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Sept. 12, 2012– When Summer 2012’s door closes in a few weeks, the summer of 2013 beckons for early birds who book a two to six-day river rafting adventure with Western River Expeditions in Utah, Idaho or Oregon for the 2013 season.

The rates on rafting trips for next year if booked by Sept. 21, 2012 will be held at 2012 prices, representing considerable savings for anyone who can plan now for next summer’s vacation.

Multi-day river expeditions are featured on a total of six iconic western rivers including; the Colorado, Green, Rogue, Main Salmon, Middle Fork of the Salmon and Snake. All-inclusive rates begin at just $290 per person per day for adults and $190 for youth (5 to 15) plus tax on a trip through Desolation Canyon on Utah’s Green River. Air to the gateway city not included. See: http://www.westernriver.com/lp/rates-deal/.

River trips included in this promotion are:

Utah – Cataract Canyon / Colorado River, 4 Days, May-August http://www.westernriver.com/trips/cataract/

Utah – Cataract Canyon Express / Colorado River, 2 Days, May-July http://www.westernriver.com/trips/canyonlands/

Utah – Desolation Canyon / Green River, 4 & 5 Days, May-July http://www.westernriver.com/trips/green/

Oregon – Rogue River Lodge to Lodge, 3 & 4 Days, June-August http://www.westernriver.com/trips/rogue-river-rafting/

Idaho – Middle Fork of the Salmon, 5 & 6 Days, June-August http://www.westernriver.com/trips/middleforksalmon/

Idaho – Lower Salmon River Canyons Family Trip, 5 Days, July-August http://www.westernriver.com/trips/salmon-river-canyons/

Idaho – Hells Canyon / Snake River, 4 to 6 Days, May-September http://www.westernriver.com/trips/snakeriver/

Idaho – Main Salmon River, 5 Days, June-August http://www.westernriver.com/trips/mainsalmon/

There is also a promotion where by a trip organizer can go free if they can fill a trip with a minimum number of guests (usually 14-28 people). Call 866-904-1160 for details.

Western River Expeditions

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

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

Western River Expeditions has been named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company was honored last spring as the 2011 recipient of "Best of State" through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program. This is the eighth consecutive year Western River Expeditions has earned this distinction.  For Reservations call: Toll-Free: 866.904.1160 or 801.942.6669. 

# # # 

Media Contact:

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

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

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

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Western River Expeditions Aligns Strategies For Maximum Rafting Enjoyment This Season Despite Record Low Waters on Popular Utah Rivers

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Released on Thursday, 21 June 2012 09:10

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, June 21, 2012– Twelve months after one of the highest water years in recent memory on Utah’s Colorado and Green rivers, the story has changed. This year’s near-record-low run off is prompting concerns by some river outfitters for a soft rafting season.

However, Western River Expeditions http://www.westernriver.com plans to have just as much fun (and business) as ever and advises river rafters not to cancel or delay their river enjoyment another year.

According to Western River Expeditions, low water has its advantages! For starters, low flows can, in some instances, actually create bigger rapids than in high water periods which can actually swallow up the rapids for a fast, but less exciting ride. Plus the water is warmer.

Some weeks ago Western River Expeditions began adapting river trips and equipment to take full advantage of the increased fun and positives of this low-water year. The company is using smaller boats and more paddle rafts instead of larger row and motorized craft. Also, they’re utilizing to more inflatable kayaks and (new for this year) stand up paddleboards.

"For those who equate excitement and fun only with high water – we’re here to say that’s just wrong,” says Brian Merrill, CEO of Western River Expeditions.

Because camping is intrinsic to the company’s formula for river fun, Merrill explained that camps and beaches are better at low water. “They are bigger and more numerous.” He noted that day trips in Moab, Utah are up 15 percent over last year, which was a record high-water year.

Following is a conversation with Merrill on how the company is adapting this season to specific rafting courses:

Westwater Canyon- At higher water levels, we use primarily 18ft row boats where the guide does all the rowing and the guests hold on.  In lower water, we operate mostly paddle boats where each of the guests gets a paddle, the guides give commands and everyone participates in getting down the river.  The boats are smaller (16 ft), and the diameter of the tubes is smaller so it is a much splashier ride.  The participatory nature of a paddle boat also really adds to the excitement of going through rapids. See: http://www.westernriver.com/trips/westwater1day/

The rapids in Westwater flush over and flatten out in higher water, so everyone prefers to raft there when the water is low.  The rapids are fun and the canyon takes on an entirely different look.  It's like you are going through a series of chutes and slides and there is plenty of time to enjoy the unique scenery and beauty that often gets overlooked in higher water.

Cataract Canyon- In Cataract, we will not be running the large J-Rig rafts this year.  Instead, we are using 18ft. rowing rigs and 16ft. paddle boats.  Even with low water, the rapids in Cataract Canyon are significant, especially when using the size of boats we are using.  This is more "high adventure" but not too crazy.  People always come back raving about paddling Cataract Canyon (something that’s not offered every year). See: http://www.westernriver.com/trips/cataract/

Desolation Canyon- We haven't really changed the boat configuration for this trip, but the best thing about low water in Desolation is much bigger and more plentiful camps.  The water gets incredibly warm and many of the guests would swim all day if they could.  Another bonus is that the mosquitoes are significantly reduced when the water is low. See:  http://www.westernriver.com/trips/green/

Day trips out of Moab, Utah- We always run paddle boats on this stretch of river, but with low-water, we feel comfortable encouraging more use of inflatable kayaks. In an inflatable kayak, you paddle yourself down the river while supervised by a guide.  You are close to the water and even small waves are a lot of fun.  Inflatable kayaks are much more stable than hard-shell kayaks and can be enjoyed by all age groups. See: http://www.westernriver.com/trips/oneday/

Stand Up Paddleboard Tours- These are our brand new offering this year, and the timing couldn't be better.  Stand up paddleboards are a large surfboard that you stand on and control with a really long paddle.  The boards we use are very stable and are designed for novice to intermediate paddlers.  This trip is operated on very mild stretches of the Colorado River.  The low water gives us the flexibility to play with the boards on several different reaches outside of the Moab area.  Stand up paddleboarding is one of the fastest growing sports in the country, and the Colorado River near Moab is one of the most scenic places in the world to try it out. See: http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/trips/moab-stand-up-paddle-board-tours/

WesternRiverExpeditions

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

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

In 2009, Western River Expeditions was named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company was recently honored as the 2011 recipient of "Best of State" through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program. This is the eighth consecutive year Western River Expeditions has earned this distinction.  For Reservations call: Toll-Free: 866.904.1160 or 801.942.6669.

# # #

Media Contact:

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

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

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

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

Follow Widness & Wiggins PR on Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/BoulderDave

Western River Expeditions and Moab Adventure Center Receive Coveted Best of Utah Travel Award For 9th Consecutive Year

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Released on Wednesday, 09 May 2012 11:37

Salt Lake City, UT, May 9, 2012 – Utah whitewater rafting pioneer Western River Expeditions http://www.westernriver.com/ and its sister company, the one-stop multi-activity Moab Adventure Center http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/ are recent recipients of the Best of State Award for Adventure Travel from the state of Utah, announced Brian Merrill, CEO and spokesperson for both companies.

The Best of State award is Utah's premier recognition and awards program created to recognize outstanding individuals, organizations and businesses in Utah.

This is the 9th consecutive year that both of these Utah-based companies have won medals in the Travel & Tourism category and more specifically "Adventure Travel".

An Awards Gala to be held May 22, 2012 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City will feature dinner, live entertainment, and celebrity presenters. Merrill will be present to accept the Best of State Gold Medal for Western River Expeditions and the Moab Adventure Center. 

Moab’s Red Cliffs Lodge, with which both companies partner on many of their multi-day active itineraries, also won in the Hospitality category for best “Vacation Resort.” 

Western River Expeditions has been operating whitewater rafting expeditions on the Colorado and Green rivers since 1961 and celebrated its 50^th anniversary in 2011. It holds concession contracts with the National Park Service for Canyonlands. Arches and Grand Canyon national parks and has Special Recreation Permits with the Bureau of Land Management allowing it to guide trips in Westwater Canyon, Desolation Canyon, on the Colorado River above Moab, and on 4x4 trails in the Canyonlands area.

Each year, contract and permit holders are rigorously evaluated on everything from safety, to trip quality, to customer service, to compliance with regulations.  Western River Expeditions has never received anything less than a perfect score on any evaluation in the history of the company. 

Annually, from March through October, Western River Expeditions escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the single largest licensed outfitter  in the Grand Canyon. 

In 2003 the company launched Moab Adventure Center when they recognized that travelers needed a truly convenient location and website to plan the myriad of adventures available in the Moab/Arches/Canyonlands region.  This included day trips, multi-day trips and Moab, Utah vacation packages that combine lodging and activities. Travelers responded and since 2003, the Moab Adventure Center has experienced growth in every single year, including through the recent economic downturn.  Advanced bookings for 2012 reflect a 25% increase over 2011. Growing from just under 3,000 guests per year to over 36,000 guests in 2011, more people are choosing to experience Moab through Moab Adventure Center than any other single company.  

This customer-centered concept provides a "one stop" location that also allows Moab Adventure Center to represent other local outfitters by selling into their trips showcased at a high-profile, downtown walk-in booking location.  From the Moab Adventure Center, visitors can sign up for whitewater rafting in Moab, Hummer tours, Jeep rentals, guided hiking in Arches National Park, horseback riding, mountain biking, scenic flights, rock climbing and  canyoneering, jet boat tours, hot air ballooning, stand up paddleboarding and more.  The center also has a 2,000-square-foot retail space selling adventure related gear and clothing as well as souvenirs. 

Contact Information:

Western River Expeditions / 866.904.1160 / http://www.westernriver.com/

Moab Adventure Center / 866.904.1163 / http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/ 

# # # 

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.

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Western River Announces Available Dates For Fast Selling Four / Five-Day Family River Programs With Bookings Up 53 Percent on Some Trips

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Released on Monday, 02 April 2012 14:04

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, April 2, 2012– They who hesitate may miss the boat. That’s the word from Brian Merrill, CEO of rafting pioneer Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/). 

Why the rush? 

Bookings on one rafting adventure, the Green River through Desolation Canyon, are up 53 percent over the same time last year. This means the door is closing on the possibility of shoppers getting the reservation dates they want on high-energy rivers in Utah and Idaho. 

Family trips http://www.westernriver.com/trips/familyadventures/ are in especially high demand this year, says Western River Expeditions. This is partly due to the fact that through social media and word-of-mouth the company is becoming well known for kid-friendly adventures offering a special menu for children and a dedicated River Jester who leads game, nature exploration and other activities. A selection of boats, paddle boats and kayaks provides hands-on action for all ages.  All programs include all equipment needed, meals, expert guides and river access shuttles from gateway city. 

Suggested family trips for ages five to 15 include:  

Utah Rafting: Green River through Desolation Canyon. Four and five-day trips over 84 river miles begin and end in Moab, UT. The per person rate (including charter flight) for four days for adults is $1295, for ages 5-15 $850; for five days for adults is $1450, for ages 5-15 $950.  Four-day departures are May 24, 30, June 2, 4, 8, 16, 22, 24; and five day departures July 1, 7, 10, 18, 26. Winding through a remarkable wilderness of twisted mountains, dramatic cliffs and towering plateaus carved by an ancient inland sea, this is one of America’s favorite rafting trips.  Guests fly roundtrip from Moab to a desert plateau where white water over 60 fun-filled rapids beckons. http://www.westernriver.com/trips/green/  

Utah Rafting: Colorado River Rafting. The rate for a four-day sampler, per person, for adults is $615 and for ages 5-15 $515. This trip begins and ends in Moab, UT. Departure dates are May 29, June 5, 12, 19, 26, July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Aug 3, 7, 14, 21, 28. Surrounded by the immense red rock playground known as Moab, this Southwest sampler provides just the right amount of adventure for multi-generational families. Two nights are spent at the Gonzo Inn, just a block from Moab Adventure Center where mix-and-match challenges adventures include an off-road Hummer Safari in Arches National Park. A two-day raft trip on the Colorado River concludes the fun with night three spent in an all-inclusive beach camp under the stars. http://www.westernriver.com/trips/southwest/  

Idaho Rafting: Lower Salmon River Canyons Family Magic. Especially suited to younger families, the trip floats through four canyons (Green, Cougar, Snowhole and Blue), exploring the last 53 miles of the Salmon River before its waters join the mighty Snake River for 21 miles  on its way to the Columbia. Children will enjoy sandy camping beaches, playful inflatable kayaks, lots of swimming and crafts and games. This five-day trip per person for adults is $1475 and for ages 5-16 $1285. Departure dates are July 11, 18, 25, Aug. 1, 8. 15, 22, 29. This trip begins and ends in Lewiston Idaho.  http://www.westernriver.com/trips/salmon-river-canyons/  

WesternRiverExpeditions

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

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

The company was honored as the 2011 recipient of "Best of State" through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program. This is the eighth consecutive year Western River Expeditions has earned this distinction. In 2009, Western River Expeditions was named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine.  

# # #  

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 Widness & Wiggins PR on Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/BoulderDave

Float Momma Down the Grand Canyon This Mother’s Day: Western River Expeditions Will Pamper with VIP Attention

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Released on Thursday, 02 February 2012 14:24

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Feb. 2, 2012– A grand way to gift a favorite mom this Mother’s Day is to put her on a raft and float her down the Grand Canyon. 

Rafting pioneer Western River Expeditions http://www.westernriver.com/ has such an experience up its sleeve on two six day / five night departures May 8 and 9, said Brian Merrill, CEO. 

“Beyond the gift of gazing up at surreal scenery from the comfort of Western's custom J-Rig raft, exploring hidden waterfalls, delighting in delicious riverside meals and sleeping under endless stars, each mom will be treated like royalty with a number of special surprises and a complimentary "Canyon Gift"on both Mother's Day launches. The entire trip promises to be a gift she'll never forget and one that will bring the whole family together in an amazing way,” said Merrill. 

See: http://www.westernriver.com/trips/grand6day/mothers-day.php  

The pros of rafting in May include mild daytime temps (in the 70s and 80s), blankets of spring flowers, thundering waterfalls and more consistent, drier weather. The J-Rig raft assures dry seating if desired plus pontoon seating for the gung-ho who live in the thrill of getting wet. 

The Grand Canyon is Western River Expeditions’ signature trip conquering over 60 major rapids during a 187-mile run in six or seven days. Per person rates for 2012 begin at $2,495. There is also an option to do a shorter three or four day trip covering 100 river miles starting at $1,145 to $1,560 per person respectively. 

Traditionally Grand Canyon trips book full more than a year in advance. “The year is somewhat of an anomaly,” explained Merrill. “Our Mother’s Day departures still have lots of room while the rest of the season is pretty much booked to capacity.” Western River Expeditions can’t promise that they will have the same special trip offer in 2013. 

WesternRiverExpeditions

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

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

In 2009, Western River Expeditions was named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company was recently honored as the 2011 recipient of "Best of State" through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program. This is the eighth consecutive year Western River Expeditions has earned this distinction. 

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River Rafting Pioneer Western River Expeditions Responds to Demand: Triples Capacity on Colorado River’s Westwater Canyon

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Released on Monday, 12 December 2011 14:28

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Dec. 12, 2011 – The whitewater rafting pioneer with over 50 years of experience, Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/), has more than tripled its Colorado River – Westwater Canyon capacity to become the single largest outfitter on this popular stretch of whitewater along the Colorado/Utah border. 

The capacity has gone from 14 to 63 launches in Westwater Canyon and from 350 to 1,350 user days. 

Added capacity means more excursions and date options, says Brian Merrill, CEO. Demand for these trips is up because of a growing trend toward shorter escapes plus the fact that Westwater Canyon was recently named by National Geographic as "the West's best short whitewater rafting trip." 

"This was the one stretch of river where we have needed more capacity to meet the demand from our guests. With a launch leaving almost every other day during the prime summer months, we can now accommodate just about everyone's schedule while visiting and vacationing in Moab,” says Merrill. 

“Last year we took around 350 people; ideally we'll be up to 1,350 this year which now makes us the largest rafting outfitter in Westwater Canyon,” he notes. “We accomplished this by buying out just the Westwater operation of Adventure Bound River Expeditions, based in Grand Junction, Colorado. 

The Westwater Canyon area was recently recommended by Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar for Wilderness designation. This means greater protection, specifically with regard to oil drilling in the region. 

In Westwater, Western River Expeditions offers full day trips that begin and end at the Moab Adventure Center in Moab, Utah. The age minimum is 12. The day of rafting can also be enjoyed as part of a longer multi-sport package. 

A four day/ three night program offers on-river adventures, a Hummer® Safari and optional horseback ride in Utah’s famous Castle Valley, a region rife with settings of movies and commercials. Accommodations are at Red Cliffs Lodge on the banks of the Colorado River. Rates are $635 per adult and $595 per youth. See: http://www.westernriver.com/trips/westwater/  

The one-day program is a spirited oar-powered and paddleboat adventure through Westwater Canyon. Guides expertly row through exciting waves and swirling pools dwarfed by stunningly beautiful and unique black, gold and red canyon walls of Southern Utah. Guests hike to historic cabins, mysterious caves and Indian petroglyphs which punctuate the river's course. Class II-IV rapids such as Funnel Falls, Skull Rapid and Sock-it-to-Me provide plenty of excitement while calmer waters on the last part of the river offer a relaxing end to the perfect day trip. The rate is $165 per person. See: http://www.westernriver.com/trips/westwater1day/  

WesternRiverExpeditions

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

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

In 2009, Western River Expeditions was named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company was recently honored as the 2011 recipient of "Best of State" through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program. This is the eighth consecutive year Western River Expeditions has earned this distinction.  

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Media Contact:

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

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River Rafting Pioneer Western River Expeditions Announces Lodge-to-Lodge Rafting on Oregon’s Rogue River

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Released on Thursday, 17 November 2011 09:34

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Nov. 17, 2011 – Celebrating over 50 years of navigating the West’s wildest rivers, whitewater rafting pioneer Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) inaugurates lodge-to-lodge rafting trips on Oregon’s Rogue River this summer, with three and four day trips scheduled weekly June 3 through Aug. 26, 2012. See: http://www.westernriver.com/trips/rogue-river-rafting  

“Our lodge-to-lodge itinerary removes the camping equation, leaving guests to play like an otter on the river by day and hibernate like a bear in a private lodge room come twilight,” said Brandon Lake, vice president. He noted that most other Western River Expeditions are all-inclusive camping adventures.  

With legendary Pacific Northwest appeal stemming from deep roots in river rafting lore, the Rogue River rafting trip blends wildlife (think deer and black bear) wilderness with cabin comforts and family-style meals in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, a region so remote that mail boats still deliver letters to isolated residents on waters running over 200 miles from the Cascade Mountains near Crater Lake to the Pacific.  

The all-inclusive rate for three days per adult is $939, $879 for ages 5-16; for four days the rate is $1,245 adult, $1,165 ages 5-16 (plus tax). Trips begin and end at Morrison’s Lodge near Merlin, 43 miles from Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport in Medford, OR.  

On Day One a rapid named Grave Creek marks the congressionally designated (National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968) Wild & Scenic section of the Rogue River. Later guests walk around Ranie Falls, a notorious Class V rapid.  Afternoons are spent splashing through Class II and Class III rapids before retiring to off-the-grid Black Bar Lodge that shuts down its generators after dinner.  

Hikes to historic cabins are interspersed with river adventures on Day Two that ends at Marial Lodge. There’s an optional evening hike through dense conifers to a nearby waterfall. Day Three brings rafters to Mule Creek Canyon, Blossom Bar and Devils Staircase, all Class IV rapids with an end in sight at Galice Resort. Those who embark on a four-day adventure spend a night at Paradise Lodge and more time exploring the Oregon canopy.  

WesternRiverExpeditions

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

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

In 2009, Western River Expeditions was named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company was recently honored as the 2011 recipient of "Best of State" through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program. This is the eighth consecutive year Western River Expeditions has earned this distinction. 

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Western River Expeditions Reports Record Bookings in Record-High Water Year: Advises Book Now for 2012 Grand Canyon Trips to Secure Space

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Released on Wednesday, 31 August 2011 14:29

Company Reports 85 Percent Increase in 2-Day Cataract Canyon Trips;  26 Percent on 4-Day Cataract Classic Trips  

SALT LAKE CITY, UT, Aug. 31, 2011– High, adrenaline-inducing waters thrilled rafters on Utah and Arizona’s Colorado River in record numbers this season. One tour operator who experienced an 85 percent increase in bookings in a sector of his business reports that 2012 reservations already in place are set to eclipse 2011. 

“Anyone who wants to book a Grand Canyon raft trip is advised to do it as soon as possible,” said Brian Merrill, CEO of rafting pioneer Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2011. “We’re already experiencing the highest pre-booking rates in several years for next year’s season.” 

For the 2012 season, six- and seven-day Grand Canyon raft trips as of late summer are, according to Merrill, “one third booked and requests are 43 percent ahead of last year at this same time. Those who wish to ride the river with us next year should grab a space soon.”

The Grand Canyon is Western River Expeditions’ signature trip conquering over 60 major rapids during a 187 mile run in six or seven days. Per person rates for 2012 begin at $2,495. There is also an option to do a shorter three or four day trip covering 100 river miles starting at $1,145 to $1,560 per person respectively.  

In 2011 the sales of Cataract Canyon river trips covering a scenic section of the Colorado River directly above the Grand Canyon http://www.westernriver.com/trips/cataract/ reached an all-time record high, with 2-Day Cataract Express trips reporting an 85 percent increase above last year and the Cataract Classic 4-Day trips 26 percent higher. 

WesternRiverExpeditions

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

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

In 2009, Western River Expeditions was named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company was recently honored as the 2011 recipient of "Best of State" through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program. This is the eighth consecutive year Western River Expeditions has earned this distinction. 

# # # 

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 Widness & Wiggins PR on Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/BoulderDave