Colorado River Smooth Water Float Trip and Horseshoe Bend from Sedona

Imagine floating peacefully along the Colorado River, surrounded by towering canyon walls and ancient petroglyphs. This full-day adventure from Sedona offers a laid-back yet awe-inspiring journey through Glen Canyon, with plenty of opportunities to learn about the area’s geology and Native American history. Priced at around $372 per person and lasting about 12 hours, this tour combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

What we love most about this experience is how accessible it makes some of the most iconic sights in northern Arizona. The mellow, flat-water float is perfect for all ages and fitness levels—no whitewater thrill needed—and the stops at Petroglyphs and Horseshoe Bend are highlights that provide memorable photo opportunities. The inclusion of a nice picnic lunch and stops at places like the Cameron Trading Post add cultural depth and a chance to shop for authentic Native American artwork.

One potential consideration is the long day’s duration—about 12 hours, including drive time and stops—which might be tiring for some. Also, the tour requires a minimum of two people to operate, so it’s worth planning ahead if you’re traveling solo or in a small group.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic, laid-back experiences with a cultural touch. If you’re interested in geology, Native American art, or just want a relaxing way to see parts of Arizona most travelers overlook, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• Relaxed Float: An easygoing, flat-water float that appeals to all ages and fitness levels.
• Scenic Highlights: Pass through Glen Canyon, see petroglyphs, and visit Horseshoe Bend for unforgettable photographs.
• Cultural Stops: Visit the historic Cameron Trading Post and walk across the Navajo Bridge.
• All-Inclusive: Includes hotel pickup, a picnic lunch, bottled water, and guided commentary.
• Long Day: About 12 hours, including travel, stops, and water time.
• Limited Group Size: Max of 14 travelers ensures a personalized experience.

The Experience in Detail

What the Tour Looks Like

Starting early at 6 am from Sedona, you’ll be whisked away through the scenic Oak Creek Canyon, with its striking red walls, and up onto the Colorado Plateau. The drive itself is an attraction, offering views of San Francisco Peaks—Arizona’s tallest mountains—and the Painted Desert. En route, you’ll stop at the Cameron Trading Post, a beloved spot for Native American crafts, where you can browse Zuni, Hopi, and Navajo artwork. This cultural pause is a great way to connect with the region’s native heritage before hitting the water.

The River Float

Once in Page, you’ll board an inflatable raft with a group of like-minded explorers. The float stretches about 3.5 hours, providing ample time to relax and take in the scenery. The section of the Glen Canyon you’ll traverse is known for its smooth, calm waters, making it ideal for a peaceful float rather than a whitewater adventure. As you drift, you’ll see cliffs that rise vertically from the river, their layers telling stories of millions of years of geological change.

Your guides—though not named specifically—are praised for their knowledgeable commentary, often sharing insights into the canyon’s formation, Native American petroglyphs, and ecological features. Several reviews mention that the guides are friendly and informative, making the experience both fun and educational.

Petroglyphs and Cultural Stops

One of the tour’s highlights is the chance to see ancient petroglyphs carved into the canyon walls—an awe-inspiring glimpse into the region’s past. The guides often point out these carvings during the float, adding context and history. Later, you’ll stop for lunch on a beach, where you can challenge yourself with a swim in the cold river—an invigorating experience, as one reviewer noted, “the cold river was a shock but totally worth it.”

Horseshoe Bend and Scenic Drive

After the float, the journey continues with a walk across the Navajo Bridge, where you get panoramic views of the meandering Colorado River below. Then, you’ll visit Horseshoe Bend, the iconic, horseshoe-shaped curve of the river that’s become a must-see for any Arizona visitor. The walk up is brief but offers a breathtaking vista of this natural marvel.

Return and Reflection

The return trip from Lees Ferry is just as scenic, with stops to see balancing rocks in the desert and explore other geological formations. The entire day wraps up with you back at your Sedona hotel around 6 pm, tired but full of incredible memories.

Authenticity and Value

This tour combines scenic beauty, cultural richness, and relaxation, making it a good value in today’s tour market. Including hotel pickup, a picnic lunch, bottled water, and guided commentary, it’s priced accordingly but offers more than just a boat ride—it’s a full-day immersion into some of Arizona’s best natural sights.

The reviews highlight the quality of guides and the stunning scenery as standout features. Britney from the reviews called it “the most beautiful thing we did,” emphasizing the up-close canyon views. Conversely, Kevin felt it was less exciting than the Grand Canyon, which reminds us that expectations should be tempered with awareness of the experience—this is a calm, scenic float, not an adrenaline rush.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates relaxed, educational outings with opportunities to learn about Native American culture and geology, this tour is a winner. It’s perfect for families, older travelers, or those seeking a peaceful day away from crowds. But keep in mind the long hours and the need for comfortable weather—the tour can be weather-dependent, and a windy or cold day might lessen the experience.

The Sum Up

This Colorado River float trip from Sedona offers a balanced mix of natural beauty and cultural insights, all wrapped into a well-organized, hassle-free package. The guides’ expertise and the spectacular scenery make it a memorable way to experience the iconic landscapes of northern Arizona without the rugged whitewater thrills. The additional stops at Horseshoe Bend and the Cameron Trading Post add layers of interest, making it suitable for those who want a deeper connection to the land and its history.

While it’s a long day, the relaxed pace and inclusion of all logistics make it accessible and relatively stress-free. If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic adventure that combines nature, culture, and comfort, this tour is a strong choice—especially if you value knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at Sedona hotels are included in the tour.

How long is the float on the river?
The float itself lasts about 3.5 hours, providing a relaxing, scenic experience.

What should I wear?
Wear layers to stay comfortable in case of cold or windy weather, and bring a towel if you plan to swim.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, and child seats or booster seats are available if needed.

How much walking is involved?
The main walking is at Horseshoe Bend and Navajo Bridge, which are short walks but should be considered if mobility is an issue.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes guides, lunch, bottled water, hotel pickup and drop-off, and local taxes.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Given the flat water float and short walks at stops, it’s suitable for most but check your mobility needs.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This full-day float from Sedona offers a gentle yet stunning introduction to some of Arizona’s most cherished sights, with plenty of cultural and geological interest woven into the experience. It’s a great choice if you crave a relaxed pace, scenic beauty, and authentic connection with the landscape.