QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS What can I expect for weather? Temperatures in the Grand Canyon range from a low of 60 degrees to a high of 100 degrees in May and September. It is much warmer in June, July and August, with temperatures ranging between 75 degrees and 115 degrees. Humidity is very low and the sun is very intense. The rainy season usually begins around the middle of July and lasts 4-6 weeks. During this time afternoon temperatures are generally lower and the rain showers can appear suddenly and disappear as well. It is best to be prepared with a rain poncho or rain suit. The water temperature is 45-50 degrees throughout the season.
How's the fishing? The Colorado River is home to lunker trout in the upper stretches of the Grand Canyon. The lower water of April offers the best chance at a trophy fish. You will need an Arizona fishing license which can be purchased at Marble Canyon Lodge or at Phantom Ranch.
How safe is the trip? Outdoors Unlimited has an unmatched safety record. We carry a satellite telephone, ground-to-air transceivers, complete first-aid kits, and our entire staff is qualified in intermediate, advanced or EMT levels of wilderness first- aid. Good equipment, the best of guides, and responsible passengers are the key ingredients in the maintenance of our excellent record. See "Guidelines for a Safe and Fun Trip" for your responsibilities as guests.
Do I need extra insurance? Although actual incidents seldom occur, occasionally a camera or other valuable item is damaged or lost, commonly off-river. Due to the lead time necessary for OU to book a trip, cancellation of your reservation could be costly. An accident/sickness, trip-cancellation and personal property insurance policy application through The Travelers Insurance Co. is enclosed.
What forms of payment are acceptable for my trip fee? We accept checks and credit cards (MasterCard and Visa) for payment of your deposit. When sending in your final payment, since time is not normally an issue, we would prefer checks, money orders, or wire transfers.
Should I tip my guide? Tipping is optional and a personal decision on your part. If you feel that your guide's contribution to your trip was outstanding a tip of not more than 10% of your river trip fare would be adequate to show your appreciation.
What beverages do you supply?
Due to space and weight considerations in our rafts, we can carry only a limited amount of canned drinks on our trips. Two canned drinks per person are allotted per day. A variety of fruit drinks made up from dry mixes are available throughout the day on the rafts and with dinner. Beer or wine purchased by you prior to your trip can be pre-packed on the boats (see Beer & Wine Order Sheet). Hard liquor should be transferred to a plastic container. A variety of sodas are available each day for the non-beer drinkers but we do not take special orders for specific types.
OUTDOORS UNLIMITED
6900 Townsend Winona Rd
Flagstaff AZ 86004
(800) 637-RAFT Page 3
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS What are the meals like?
One of the great features of a raft trip is the capability of bringing fresh food along. Crisp salad greens, thick steaks, tasty melons, whole grain breads, an abundance of vegetables, and more are packed away in large iced coolers and boxes. Our emphasis is on wholesome meals of high quality cooked in a classic outdoor style. Each features several courses and a selection of beverages with dinner. Lunches are served buffet style with a choice of spreads, meat, cheese, fruit, and all the trimmings.
Can you accommodate vegetarian diets? We offer meatless versions of all meals we serve and carry plentiful amounts of fresh fruits and produce. If your requirements prevent you from eating all animal products, such as eggs and dairy items, you should bring some food supplements that you commonly use. Please advise us if dry or cooler storage will need to be provided by OU.
What about snakes and insects?
Snakes are rarely seen and generally stay away from campsites. Except for the occasional mosquito at dusk, insects are seldom bothersome. Insect repellent is optional.
Can I get to my belongings during the day on the river?
You should plan to bring your own waterproof container for your camera. This container should have a strap or line so that it can be attached to the raft frame wherever you're sitting. A common day bag is carried in each boat for items such as extra clothing with access available at any time during the day. The rest of your gear is not accessible until unloaded at camp.
What kind of toilet facilities are there on the river?
Portable toilet facilities are set up in a private but open air location in each night's camp. Since the 'Park Service requires that all solid wastes be carried out of the Canyon, we do not use flush style facilities.
How much time do we spend on the river each day?
We average 4-5 hours per day on the river plus another 4-5 hours for side hikes and a lunch stop. Some days may be devoted mostly to floating; other days when the attraction sites are plentiful we will spend less time on the water.
Are the hikes strenuous?
Hikes are always optional. They vary in difficulty from a simple walk to occasional short vertical climbs. Most guests are capable of handling all the hikes, but on the longer, more strenuous ones, pre-conditioning will pay off.
What about "hard to find" items?
Some items mentioned in "What to Bring" are hard to find in some areas of the country. Things like polypropylene, Teva sandals, waterproof camera containers, and aqua socks. We suggest you look for catalogs such as LL Bean, Eddie Bauer, REI, or Patagonia for these items. Most items are stocked at the Marble Canyon store.
OUTDOORS UNLIMITED
6900 Townsend Winona Rd
Flagstaff AZ 86004
(800) 637-RAFT Page 4
