Colorado River Float from Sedona or Flagstaff: Full-Day Smooth-Water Trip to Lee’s Ferry & Horseshoe Bend
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10–12 hours (includes transport; ~3 hours on water)
Fitness Level
Good for travelers with moderate fitness—able to board a raft, walk short uneven shoreline sections, and spend a long day outside.
Overview
Float three leisurely hours beneath 1,000‑foot sandstone cliffs on a full‑day Colorado River trip departing Sedona or Flagstaff. Expect scenic river miles, petroglyph stops, a riverside lunch, and guided interpretation across Navajo Nation lands.
Colorado River Float from Sedona or Flagstaff: Full-Day Smooth-Water Trip to Lee’s Ferry & Horseshoe Bend
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You step off the shuttle while the desert light slides across red walls—an enormous, fluted canyon yawning open, the Colorado River a ribbon of glass at its base. Guides lay out inflatable oar rafts like patient beasts, and for the next three hours the current carries you past 1,000‑foot cliffs, sandy beaches, and the slow, steady story of water shaping stone. The river doesn’t shout; it persuades you to look closer.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Sun protection is non‑negotiable
The desert reflection makes shade rare—bring SPF 30+, a wide‑brim hat, and polarized sunglasses for three hours on the water.
Bring water shoes and a towel
Beaches and slickrock require grip and quick‑dry footwear; sandals won’t cut it for short climbs from raft to shore.
Arizona car seat law for young children
Children eight years and younger must travel in a booster or car seat—guests must supply their own; confirm this before pickup.
Respect tribal land and petroglyphs
Do not touch or climb on rock art; photograph from a respectful distance and follow guide instructions when visiting cultural sites.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Desert bighorn sheep often pick through ledges above the river.
- Great blue herons and kingfishers fish the calmer eddies.
History
Lee’s Ferry was a 19th‑century crossing and the only convenient Colorado River passage for hundreds of miles, crucial to early settlers and river runners.
Conservation
This reach travels through Navajo Nation and sensitive archaeological areas—guides enforce Leave No Trace and strict rules around artifacts and campfire use to limit impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Sedona
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Water shoes
Protects feet on sandy beaches and slickrock during shore stops and short hikes.
summer specific
Wide‑brim hat & sunscreen
Desert sun and reflected light make high SPF protection essential for comfort and safety.
summer specific
Light technical layers
Morning pickups can be cool—pack a thin fleece or wind shell you can stash in a dry bag.
spring specific
Waterproof camera or phone case
Keeps electronics safe from splashes and allows hands‑free photos during the float.