Every year, more than 5 million people visit Grand Canyon National Park. Yet fewer than 25,000—roughly .05%—ever experience the canyon from its most awe-inspiring vantage point: the Colorado River itself.
That opportunity opens again soon.
Western River Expeditions, one of the few outfitters licensed to run commercial rafting trips through the Grand Canyon, will release 2027 Grand Canyon rafting dates on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at 6:00 PM Mountain Time (5 PM PT, 7 PM CT, 8 PM ET). Historically, many departures fill within minutes to hours.
A Rare Chance Few Ever Get
While millions peer over the rim, only about 1% of visitors go below it, whether by hiking or rafting. An even smaller segment completes multi-day rafting expeditions through the canyon’s most secluded waterfalls, slot canyons, side hikes, and starlit beaches.
Announcing 2027 Reservations Opening December 3, 2025
Demand is already high. Western released its 2026 dates last December, and many trips have sold out. To secure a 2027 seat, Western strongly recommends:
Special Note for Group Organizers
Groups of 14 or 28 travelers may qualify for complimentary or discounted organizer spots on select 2027 departures. Availability is extremely limited and must be secured before public bookings fill remaining space. Those interested in organizing a group should contact Western River Expeditions directly at 801-942-6669.
Why So Few Can Go
Grand Canyon rafting permits are tightly limited by the National Park Service. Western River Expeditions, the largest and one of the longest-operating outfitters in the canyon, is among the select few companies licensed to guide guests along the river’s 188 miles of world-class whitewater.
Their custom J-Rig rafts, designed for big water and maximum stability, make the trip accessible even for first-timers.
2027 Grand Canyon Expeditions
Lees Ferry to Lava Falls with helicopter exit
Nearly 200 miles of rapids, slot canyon hikes, waterfalls
Ages 12+
The most complete Grand Canyon river experience
Bar 10 Ranch stay plus helicopter entry and jetboat exit
Nearly 100 miles of rafting
Horseback riding, ranch activities, and scenic flight
Ages 9+
Helicopter entry and jetboat exit
Perfect for travelers short on time
Ages 9+
A View Only a Few Will Ever See
“People don’t realize how rare it is to stand on a quiet beach inside the Grand Canyon,” said Brian Merrill, CEO of Western River Expeditions. “You look up at a billion stars, hear the river echo off the walls, and suddenly the world feels bigger and more beautiful than you imagined. It’s something so few will ever experience.”
Grand Canyon by the Numbers
About Western River Expeditions
For more than 60 years, Western River Expeditions has led adventurers through the world’s most iconic rivers. Recognized among the top 10% of global adventures on TripAdvisor and voted the #1 rafting company by USA Today readers, Western River blends expert guides, gourmet meals, and seamless logistics with some of nature’s most remote and breathtaking settings.
Booking Information
To reserve your adventure:
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Media Contact:
Sara Widness: 802.234.6704 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Dave Wiggins: 720.301.3822 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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