At the start of the trip At the beginning of the trip, you will be flying to the ranch in small twin engine aircraft. There is a strict 25 lb luggage weight limit per person including any beer, wine or spirits you bring. Please do not bring glass containers. Plan to transfer wine or spirits into plastic containers for the trip. You will also need to bring a government issued photo ID.
Camping / Toilet Facilities Camping in the canyon is one of the great pleasures of the trip. You may hike, fish, read or relax and enjoy your surroundings. Outfitters provide a full sleep kit with an inflated sleeping pad and ground tarp which makes sleeping on the ground comfortable. Tents are available in case of rain. There are no "assigned" camps in the canyon which maintains the expeditionary nature of the experience. A clean, private camp toilet is the first thing set up upon arrival at camp and the last thing to be dismantled the next morning. It is similar to home except with a better view and it doesn't flush. A separate daytime version is always available.
Age limitations Most outfitters want kids to be 8-12 depending on the type of trip (motor or oar powered). This can be a great trip for kids but in your consideration think about the child's camping experience and overall preparedness for living outside. On the other end of the spectrum, folks over 80 have greatly enjoyed this trip.
Extra Luggage Typically you may leave extra luggage at your hotel for a nominal per bag fee. No lockers are available at McCarran International Airport. Extra luggage may be stored with the airline that flies you to the river for $15 per bag. Transfer all your personal clothing and gear which you will need on the river into a small, lightweight soft-sided duffel bag. Identify your duffel bag with a label. Please do not bring suitcases to the river. Included in your equipment package is a water-resistant personal bag for your duffel bag which you will receive at the river .
At the end of the trip The trip ends on Lake Mead where an air conditioned charter coach will be waiting to return you to the Las Vegas airport. The bus takes about 3 hours but your arrival time in Las Vegas will vary depending on the trip option you choose. Plan to check with us regarding when to schedule an outbound flight if you plan to depart the day you get off the river . If you want to clean up before your flight home, you can shower at the "24 Hour Fitness" athletic club located at the Las Vegas McCarran Airport in Terminal 1. They offer a one-time-use pass for about $10.00 and they ask you to provide a photo ID.
