Colorado River Smooth Water Small-Group Float Trip from Sedona or Flagstaff

Discover the Colorado River Smooth Water Small-Group Float from Sedona

If you’re looking to combine the beauty of northern Arizona with a relaxed, full-day adventure, this Colorado River float trip offers a fantastic way to do it. Starting from Sedona, you’ll explore some of the most iconic sights—Glen Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, the Painted Desert—while enjoying a peaceful river float that’s perfect for all ages. With a price of around $372 per person, and roughly an 11-hour commitment, this tour is designed for those who want a leisurely, scenic experience with some historical and cultural highlights thrown in.

What we love most is the small-group size, which often means more personalized attention, and the expert guides who know their stuff—expect interesting explanations about the landscape, the history, and the native sites. Another highlight is the combination of outdoor scenery and cultural insight, like browsing the Navajo trading post and seeing ancient petroglyphs.

A possible consideration is the long drive — about 3 hours each way — which might feel a bit taxing if you’re not a fan of long bus rides. But if you’re a fan of outdoor adventures, captivating views, and learning about the region’s native history, this trip is a good fit. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace and are prepared for a full day away from Sedona.

• Scenic Journey: Drive through the San Francisco Volcanic Field and Painted Desert, offering stunning geological and desert views.
• Relaxed Float: Glide along 15 miles of the Colorado River’s calm waters in a small group, perfect for unwinding and taking in the scenery.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the historic Cameron Navajo Trading Post and see ancient petroglyphs, adding a meaningful cultural dimension.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Pickup from Sedona, lunch, bottled water, and expert guides make this a hassle-free experience.
• Long Day: Expect about 11 hours, with a significant drive time, so pack snacks and patience.
• Great for Families: The float is smooth water, making it suitable for children, with some reviews noting group sizes as intimate and engaging.

The Detailed Experience: What to Expect on This Full-Day Tour

Starting the Journey: Pickup and Scenic Drive

We begin early, with hotel pickups in Sedona around 6 a.m. The comfortable, climate-controlled van whisks us away to northern Arizona, setting the tone with a window seat and a good playlist of facts about the landscape. The long drive—around 3 hours—may seem like a lot, but it’s part of the adventure. As we weave through the Sonoran Desert, you’ll notice the rugged terrain, and your guides will share tidbits about the 600 volcanoes that dot the San Francisco Volcanic Field, adding geological context to the scenery.

En Route to Glen Canyon

Passing through the Painted Desert—a striking, multi-hued landscape that belongs to the Petrified Forest National Park—sets the scene for an awe-inspiring day. We stop at the Cameron Navajo Trading Post, a century-old stop operated by the Navajo Nation, where you can browse Native American jewelry, pottery, and crafts. Reviews praise guides for their knowledge, and you’ll likely appreciate the chance to learn about Navajo traditions and history during this culturally rich pause.

Arrival at Glen Canyon

Upon reaching Page, Arizona, the towering Glen Canyon Dam looms, creating Lake Powell, a vast reservoir. Here, you’ll prep for the float, receive a safety briefing, and gear up. The small group size means everyone gets more attention, which adds to the comfort and safety of the experience.

The River Float

The core of the tour is a 15-mile float on the Colorado River, in calm, smooth waters that are ideal for a relaxing paddle. As we glide through Glen Canyon, you’ll be amazed by the towering cliffs, unusual rock formations, and the overall tranquility of the environment. Many reviews highlight the stunning scenery and the informative guides who point out interesting features along the way.

One of the most memorable moments is the picnic lunch on a sandy beach beside the river—sandwiches, snacks, and fresh fruit provide fuel for more exploration. After lunch, there’s time to swim in the chilly waters or follow your guide on an easy hike to see ancient petroglyphs carved into the cliffs by the Anasazi. The ease of these activities makes it accessible for families and those not seeking intense adventure.

Visiting Horseshoe Bend and Lees Ferry

Post-lunch, the tour includes a quick stop at Horseshoe Bend, a breathtaking meander of the Colorado River where you’ll get a fantastic photo opportunity. The views are spectacular, and many travelers find it to be a highlight.

After disembarking at Lees Ferry, the tour history comes alive—this site was once a ferry crossing and now marks the official starting point for the Grand Canyon. The story of its past adds an enriching layer to your experience.

Return Trip to Sedona

The journey back is equally scenic, with the guides sharing stories and facts to keep everyone entertained. Expect to arrive back in Sedona around 5 p.m., exhausted but enriched by a day of stunning vistas and cultural insights.

What the Reviews Tell Us

Many travelers rave about the guides, who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Dale G. mentions that both the van and river guides did a “great job explaining what we were seeing,” which enhances the overall experience. Others appreciate the relaxing nature of the float and the beautiful scenery, with Donald G. noting that the weather was perfect and the views “awesome.”

Some reviews mention the long drive—up to six hours total—and suggest that this can be a challenge. Heather D. points out the 3-hour drive each way, emphasizing that it’s worth knowing in advance, so you’re not caught off guard. A few travelers felt the lunch could be improved, with Denise B. suggesting it would be better enjoyed on the raft in the shade instead of in the bus.

The small group size and personalized guides are highly appreciated, making the trip more engaging and comfortable.

The Practical Details That Matter

Transportation and Group Size

All transportation is in a climate-controlled van, which is essential for comfort during the long drive. The tour caps at 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.

Timing and Duration

Starting early at 6 a.m., the entire day spans about 11 hours. Expect a 3-hour drive to and from the river, with about 3 hours on the river itself, plus stops. This makes it a full commitment, suitable for those who don’t mind a long day but value a relaxed, scenic pace.

Cost and Value

At $372.39 per person, the price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, bottled water, and expert guides. Considering the full-day experience, scenic drives, culturally significant stops, and the float itself, many find the value aligns well with the cost—especially when compared to booking individual activities or transportation separately.

Considerations

You’ll need to provide your own car seat or booster for children under eight, as state law requires it. Also, since the tour is seasonal (May 1st to October 1st), check availability if visiting outside these months.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This Colorado River float trip shines as a combination of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxed outdoor fun. It’s best suited for those who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, appreciate learning about native cultures, and don’t mind a long day of travel. Families with children over eight will find this a memorable, safe adventure, especially since the float is on calm waters.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, the stops at Horseshoe Bend and petroglyphs provide excellent photo ops. Nature lovers will enjoy the geological wonders of the Painted Desert and Glen Canyon. But if you dislike long bus rides or prefer shorter trips, this might be a bit too much time on the road.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded experience—beautiful scenery, cultural relevance, and expert guides—making it a worthwhile choice for those who want a comprehensive, laid-back day exploring America’s southwestern gems.

FAQ

How early do I need to arrive?
The tour starts with hotel pickups at 6 a.m., so be prepared for an early start.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since the float is on smooth water and the experience is generally relaxed. However, children under eight need a car seat or booster.

What should I bring?
Bring layers of clothing, especially in spring or fall, and be prepared for a full day. A hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are advisable for sun protection.

Do I need to know how to swim?
While the float is on calm waters, and safety instructions are provided, basic swimming ability is useful but not mandatory.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a picnic lunch with sandwiches, snacks, and fruit is provided. Some reviews suggest eating in the shade of a bluff on the river for a better experience.

What about the drive back?
It’s a long trip—about 3 hours each way—so plan for some rest and entertainment during the journey.

Can I book this tour if I’m staying in Flagstaff?
While the tour departs from Sedona, pickup is offered from Sedona hotels. If you are staying in Flagstaff, consider transportation logistics, as the tour is designed primarily for Sedona guests.

This full day of scenic vistas, cultural discovery, and gentle adventure offers a memorable way to experience northern Arizona’s natural beauty. Whether you’re into photography, history, or just relaxing on the water, it’s a trip that delivers on multiple fronts.