Grand Canyon

2025 Grand Canyon Trip Report

Launched April 10, 2025

Take out May 3, 2025

Lees Ferry to Pearce Ferry 24 days

14 folks to Phantom Ranch 12 folks below.

We had an excellent trip down the entire Grand Canyon. The weather was amazing with warm temps and one or two nights of rain. The water was green all the way to Separation Canyon. We had four swims, no flips or other camp drama.

The first swim was in Georgie where the rower got pushed out of the boat and he popped right back in. It was his first time rowing the entire canyon and past there did an amazing job!

The next two swims were in my boat. I misjudged the hole in the bottom of Grapevine and dumped myself and my passenger into the drink. We self-rescued and were in the boat soon after the rapid.

Dubendorf was a messy monster, I swam the bottom third and another more experienced boatman swam there as well. After the flash in Stone/Gallaway last year the rapid became pretty big with large holes throughout. There was speculation that Dubie has taken over as the largest and trickiest rapid in the Canyon.  A scout is highly advised.

We rented two 18-foot boats and one 16-foot boat from Ceiba. We had a total of seven boats which was more than enough for the size group we had. We also did the “painless private” option and had Ceiba do our food shop, and pack as well. The boats were pretty new, and the food was delicious.

Our group “rhythm” as such that there were lengthy hikes each day to new and old places. We would rise with the sun (5 am) and be on the water by 7am. We would get to our next camps early enough to do the big hikes, laundry, rest or play cutthroat card games. It was great as it seemed everyone was early riser.

Overall, it was an exceptional group of long-time boaters with multiple Canyon trips under their belts. Combined with great weather, choice camps, scenic hikes and a great group this trip was one of the best!