Smooth-Water Colorado River Float to Horseshoe Bend: Day Trip from Sedona
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10–12 hours
Fitness Level
Comfortable sitting for extended periods with short walks on sand or uneven terrain; suitable for most travelers.
Overview
Slide through Glen Canyon’s towering walls on a calm Colorado River float, then step to the edge of Horseshoe Bend—all in a single, guided day from Sedona. Expect big scenery, cultural stops on Navajo land, and easygoing water that welcomes first-timers and families.
Smooth-Water Colorado River Float to Horseshoe Bend: Day Trip from Sedona
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Dawn starts soft in Sedona, the sandstone warming through pinks as the shuttle noses north. Oak Creek Canyon rises in tight curves, pines leaning in like curious locals. Beyond the switchbacks the San Francisco Peaks shoulder the skyline, and the Painted Desert spreads out in bands that seem to breathe as the light changes. By the time you cross the Navajo Nation and roll over Navajo Bridge—where California condors sometimes plane the thermals—the day has taken a wide-open, road-trip rhythm. The river is waiting.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Layer for canyon wind
Air temps can feel 10–15°F cooler on the water. A light windproof layer keeps the breeze from biting, even in summer.
Sun strategy matters
The canyon reflects light from all angles—use high-SPF sunscreen, a brimmed hat, and UV sunglasses with side coverage.
Footwear you can get wet
Closed-toe sandals or water shoes grip sandy decks and protect toes during beach landings.
Respect tribal lands
Follow guide instructions at cultural stops, and ask before photographing people or sacred sites within the Navajo Nation.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- California condor
- Desert bighorn sheep
History
Glen Canyon Dam, completed in 1963, transformed seasonal flows and carved Lake Powell upstream; the corridor also preserves petroglyphs and the 19th-century Lees Ferry crossing that linked Arizona and Utah.
Conservation
Stay off fragile cryptobiotic soil near riverbanks and pack out all micro-trash. Purchase art from reputable vendors to support Navajo artisans and local economies.
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Adventure Hotspots in Page, Arizona
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Lightweight windbreaker
Cuts canyon wind on the raft and packs small for the shuttle.
Wide-brim sun hat with chin strap
All-day desert sun and reflected glare make secure shade a must.
summer specific
Closed-toe water sandals or river shoes
Provide traction on wet decks and protect feet during sandy shore stops.
Small dry bag
Keeps phones, snacks, and an extra layer dry during the float.