(The photo above is from Signature Cave on the Yampa, just downstream and across from the Harding Hole campsites.)
Running rapids is a blast. No question about it. But there are so many other fun things to do on white water rafting trips that each trip is a virtual smorgasbord of good times. And when such non-stop fun can be had in the company of family and good friends, all the better.
Of course, the shared experiences are a real attraction of commercial river trips too. Friendships and bonds form quickly among clients who start off as complete strangers. It's easy to recognize fun when you see it and it's wonderful to share the experiences. The photos on this page give a good idea of the breadth of activities and adventures you can have in addition to the white water!
All Natural Entertainment
River canyons are full of fun and unique experiences. You will find hikes, waterfalls, Indian art, historical ruins, caves, hot springs, water slides, and geologic features. Butt Plug Falls near Jones Creek on the Yampa, the Barth Bath Tub Hot Spring on the Main Salmon, the water slides on the Rogue River, Sunflower Hot springs on the Middle fork, sliding down the Little Colorado on a Grand Canyon trip. The hike to Mantle Cave or to Wagon Wheel Point are fun side hikes away from the Yampa. Each river has its own unique features.
Bring Your History Book
Most river canyons have more secret features that you can find if you do a little research. A book on the history of the region is a great asset to any river trip. As you pass or camp near homesteads, mines, battlefields, or other sites mentioned in the book you can investigate and imagine life in the canyon as it was hundreds or thousands of years ago. Many western canyons have been occupied by humans for 5-8000 years!
Camp Entertainment
Two time-honored traditions on rafting trips are water fights while on the river and playing games at camp. (And I've seen a few water fights in camp too!) Many new games have been invented while sitting around with idle time in camp. And of course there are the old favorites: tug-o-war where each of two participants stand, balancing on an ammo can. Variations on ring-toss and 'yard darts' or a plain old game of horse shoes are always fun on the beach. Of course poker, various other card games, and dominoes are great ways to spend a lazy afternoon at camp.
Bring a Little Cash
Yes, you can find places to shop and spend money on a white water rafting trip. A visit to the store at the Flying 'B' Ranch is a requisite stop on any raft trip down the Middle Fork of the Salmon. The Main Salmon has stores at Five Mile Bar (with the amazing and free "Buckskin Bill Museum") and at Mackay Bar. Phantom Ranch in the Grand Canyon is a time-honored and favorite stop. River stores offer tee shirts, snacks, ice, books, maps, postcards, and my favorite purchase on a hot summer day, rock hard ice cream bars. Uniquely, the Rogue River in southwestern Oregon has regularly spaced lodges down the entire length of the wild and scenic section providing bed and breakfast services. You can even arrange what is called a 'credit card trip' where you leave your tent at home and just float from lodge to lodge, eating out every night and sleeping in clean sheets! Reservations usually required.
