Vacations. Best Rafting. in the west. western river expeditions Grand Canyon ~ utah ~ idaho. Call toll-free at: (800)

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1 western river expeditions Grand Canyon ~ utah ~ idaho Call toll-free at: (800) Call local at: (801) Online at: westernriver.com Best Rafting Vacations in the west celebrating 50 years of adventure

2 Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn t do than by the things you did. So throw off the bowlines. Explore. Dream. Discover. mark twain, 1879

3 get ready for adventure! Destinations Overview...4 Southern Utah...6 Grand Canyon...14 Idaho Details Traveling with Western Rates and Dates Preparing for your Trip Visit westernriver.com Detailed itineraries Photo galleries Online video Customer reviews 24/7 reservations best of state» 7 time winner

4 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF ADVENTURE Five decades of pure, untainted adventure has created unforgettable memories and lifelong connections to the people and places we love. From the early days of pioneering Southwestern canyons in leaky Army surplus rafts, while wearing overstuffed orange lifejackets, cut-off jeans and cowboy boots, we ve never forgotten that the heart of rafting with Western River Expeditions lies in each guest s personal encounter with soul-stirring canyons, thrilling whitewater, unparalleled guides and the emotion of discovering the Best Rafting Vacations in the West. Join us in celebrating our 50th Anniversary!

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6 DISCOVER YOURSELF in a place where time stands still. A place where the cares of life completely melt away. A place so magnificent that just being there changes the way you see things. The insatiable allure of the West beckons you to embrace an essential escape as you journey into Grand Canyon, Utah or Idaho. Come join Western River Expeditions on the adventure of a lifetime in the West s greatest destinations. This trip was a life changing experience. The chill of the clear green water, the stark beauty of the canyon, the countless stars in the inky black sky, realizing that you are travelling through more than a billion years in time all serve to imprint an everlasting memory. Still today, when life gets too hectic I go back to the river in my mind and memory and feel the peace, beauty and awe envelop me. Linda Jennings, Florida 4

7 Salmon River Canyons 5 DAY TRIP; pg 23 Snake River 4, 5 or 6 DAY TRIP; pg 23 Lewiston Main Salmon McCall Cambridge Snake River Middle Fork 5 or 6 DAY TRIP; pg 23 Main Salmon 5 DAY TRIP; pg 23 Middle Fork Salmon Stanley Salmon Idaho Highlights Several unique departure cities, all with easy access from Boise....» Spectacular alpine setting» Excellent on-river fishing» Oar boat, paddle, and kayak choices» Largest road-less wilderness in the lower 48 experience the best rafting vacations in the west! BOISE Sun Valley IDAHO WYOMING UtaH» colorado river & green river For more information see pages 6-13 SALT LAKE CITY Moab, Utah Highlights A scenic 4 hour drive from Salt Lake City, 1.5 hour drive from Grand Junction, Colorado, or daily flights from Denver, Colorado....» Variety of 7 trips plus over 20 add-ons» Astounding red rock surroundings» Arches & Canyonlands National Parks» Native American galleries & shops NEVADA Las Vegas Highlights Convenient departure location for Grand Canyon trips....» Luxury resorts» World-class dining» Dozens of golf courses» Critically acclaimed shows LAS VEGAS Lake Mead BAR 10 RANCH Green River 4 OR 5 DAY TRIP WITH RANCH OPTION; pg 10 Colorado River in Cataract Canyon 2 DAY AND 4 DAY; pg 9 Marble Canyon Colorado River UTAH Lake Powell Grand Canyon 3 OR 4 DAY TRIP; pg 18 Page Hite Green River MOAB Colorado River Grand Canyon 6 OR 7 DAY TRIP; pg 17 ARIZONA Westwater Canyon Multi-Sport ~ 4 DAY RAFTING, HUMMER SAFARI & RANCH STAY pg 12 RED CLIFFS RANCH SORREL RANCH Grand Junction Southwest Sampler 4 DAY, ARCHES NATIONAL PARK, HUMMER SAFARI & 2 DAY RAFT ; pg 12 COLORADO NEW MEXICO arizona» grand canyon For more information see pages idaho» salmon river & snake river For more information see pages RESERVE YOUR ADVENTURE TODAY! (800)

8 Highlights: > Arches and Canyonlands National Parks > Diverse canyons boasting remarkable geology > Wide selection of trip intensity levels and raft types > Excellent multi-sport options for campers and non-campers > Over 20 optional add-on adventures to expand your experience moab, utah 6

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10 8 Colorado River in Utah cataract canyon

11 Colorado River Cataract Canyon Where the Colorado River and Green River meet in a majestic setting called The Confluence, Cataract Canyon begins. Bolstered by the Green, the Colorado River doubles its force, and carves a deep 100-mile-long chasm through the heart of Canyonlands National Park. Exciting whitewater accompanies calm stretches of river that wind through soul-stirring canyons and dazzling geologic formations. Ancient Native American ruins, fascinating petroglyphs, and magnificent waterfalls beckon your arrival. Surrender your senses as some 30 rapids take giant steps downward in one of the river s steepest stretches, rivaling the big water of the Grand Canyon. departs from Moab, utah 4 Hour Drive from Salt Lake City, ut 1.5 hour drive from grand junction, co daily flights from denver, co UTAH ARIZONA COLORADO NEW MEXICO Green River Colorado River colorado river Cataract Express 2 Days Trips from May july» Ages 12+ colorado river Cataract Classic 4 Days Trips from May august» Ages 10+ Glide along smooth-flowing currents surrounded by sculpted sandstone buttes and towering red rock cliffs with frequent stops for exploring. As the canyon deepens to 2,000 feet, you ll plunge through exciting rapids including North Sea, Capsize, Mile Long and the famous Big Drops. Return to Moab with a scenic flight over Canyonlands National Park. For full itinerary, photos & video visit us at westernriver.com see insert for rates and dates colorado river Adventure Extension: Combine your Cataract Canyon adventure with a stay at a deluxe guest ranch or add a couple nights in downtown Moab before and after your trip. Experience our popular Sunset Hummer Safari, horseback ride or explore Arches National Park. Lake Powell Journey through legendary Cataract Canyon in just 2 days aboard a comfortable, motorized snout rig perfect for those with busy schedules yearning for a quick, but exhilarating dose of adventure. Top it off with one night of all-inclusive camping complete with a delicious sunset dinner and star gazing as you re lulled to sleep by the rhythmic sounds of the river. Finish your journey as you reach Lake Powell and return to Moab, Utah. Based on water levels, this 4-day trip generally offers motorized J-Rigs (earlier in the season) and paddleboats and oar boats (later in the season). RESERVE YOUR ADVENTURE TODAY! (800)

12 Green River Desolation Canyon Winding through a remarkable wilderness of twisted mountains, dramatic cliffs, and towering plateaus carved by an ancient inland sea, the Green River through Desolation Canyon offers one of America s favorite rafting adventures. For 84 miles, the river carves through canyons boasting huge cottonwood trees, sparkling side streams, abundant wildlife, and depths greater than Grand Canyon. Years ago, this picture-perfect playground was the home to Fremont Indian tribes and later became a hiding place for Butch Cassidy and his gang of bank robbers. Today, more than 60 moderate, fun-filled rapids and comfortable summer water temperatures make it the ideal getaway for your next adventure. departs from Moab, utah 4 Hour Drive from Salt Lake City, ut 1.5 hour drive from grand junction, co daily flights from denver, co UTAH ARIZONA COLORADO NEW MEXICO TRIP STARTS HERE Jack Creek Big Canyon Jack Creek Chandler Falls Airstrip Firewater Ancient Petroglyphs Rock Creek Wildhorse Steer Ridge DESOLATION CANYON Surprise Historic Homestead Three Canyon Rock House Sand Wash Green river 4 or 5-Day Trip Trips from june july» Ages 5+ A scenic flight from Moab, Utah lands atop a dramatic desert plateau. After a short hike or ride to the river s edge, you ll launch onto the Green River. Relax as you re enveloped by 40 million years of geologic history. Explore outlaw hideouts and Native American petroglyphs. Discover the thrill of whitewater in an oar boat or try paddling your own inflatable kayak. Enjoy delicious meals every day and comfortable camping every night. For full itinerary, photos & video visit us at westernriver.com see insert for rates and dates NEW! family magic Departures featuring a dedicated River Jester and kids menu the perfect trip for families with children ages 5-15! green river Adventure Extension: Combine your Green River adventure with a stay at a deluxe guest ranch or add a couple nights in downtown Moab before and after your trip. Experience our popular Sunset Hummer Safari, horseback ride or explore Arches National Park. Price River GREEN RIVER, UTAH GRAY CANYON Wire Fence Three Fords Coal Creek Range Creek Rattlesnake Nefertiti Swaseys Landing TRIP ENDS HERE Joe Hutch Historic Florence Creek Ranch MAJOR RAPID Florence Creek TO MOAB UINTAH & OURAY INDIAN RESERVATION When my 15-year old grabbed my hand as we looked up at the stars from our cots on the beach and said, Thank you mom, I knew this was a life-changing experience. Thank you and I ll be back! Lisa Claydon, Virginia RESERVE YOUR ADVENTURE TODAY! (800)

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14 Moab, Utah Adventures Nestled between the red rock wonders of Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and the breathtaking La Sal National Forest, Moab, Utah is unlike any place on earth. In the heart of Canyon Country, Moab provides the ideal departure point for not only Western s Green River and Cataract Canyon trips, but also 2 incredible packages that combine some of Moab s best adventures with comfortable accommodations each night. departs from Moab, utah 4 Hour Drive from Salt Lake City, ut 1.5 hour drive from grand junction, co daily flights from denver, co colorado river Southwest Sampler 4 Days Trips from june august» Ages 5+ Get a taste of the best that Southern Utah has to offer on this 4-day, 3-night getaway. The first 2 days include an off-road Hummer Safari plus a guided exploration of Arches National Park. The first 2 night s lodging are spent at one of Moab s finest properties. Top it off with an overnight rafting trip on the Colorado River including all-inclusive beach camping and star gazing while overlooking the dramatic rock sculptures of Castle Valley. colorado river Westwater Multi-Sport 4 Days Trips from may september» Ages 12+ Discover the excitement of rafting the Colorado River through legendary Westwater Canyon, named The West s Best Short Whitewater Trip by National Geographic. Explore Moab s breathtaking backcountry on an exhilarating Hummer Safari and enjoy an optional horseback ride in Castle Valley. All this, together with the comfort and amenities of Red Cliffs Lodge on the banks of the Colorado River make this an ideal trip for everyone. For full itinerary, photos & video visit us at westernriver.com see insert for rates and dates departs from Moab, utah 4 Hour Drive from Salt Lake City, ut 1.5 hour drive from grand junction, co daily flights from denver, co Our family ranging in ages from 6 to 70 had a wonderful time on this trip. There was just the right mixture of adventure and relaxation for all of us. The rafting trip was amazing, thanks to James, Scott and Jess who were great guides and cooks! We had some skeptics in the family before we left on the trip, but the Southwest Sampler quickly became their favorite part of a larger western vacation. We are already looking at future trips with Western River Expeditions. Thank you! Lynn Krugman, Maryland RESERVE YOUR ADVENTURE TODAY! (800)

15 Expand your Moab Experience! Since you re in the Adventure Capital of the World, why not bring home a few more stories? You can try out everything Moab has to offer through Western s Moab Adventure Center. Add any of these short adventures to your Moab vacation: Hummer Safaris Mountain Biking Rock Climbing Canyoneering Arches National Park Tours Scenic Flights Horseback Rides Jetboat Tours Hot Air Ballooning Moab, Utah jeep rentals There s no better way to explore the town or backcountry of Moab than in a Jeep. Whether it s just for a day or the whole week, you can choose from Jeep Wranglers, 4-door Jeep Wranglers with seating for 5, the Jeep Rubicon, or a Toyota FJ Cruiser all complete with cooler, water, maps, and satellite radio! Ask us for details. arches national park 13

16 Highlights: > World-class Whitewater > Breathtaking Waterfalls > Grand Canyon National Park > Extraordinary Hiking Experiences grand canyon 14

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18 16 Grand Canyon Lee s Ferry to whitmore wash

19 Grand Canyon 6 or 7 day trips In the grandest canyon of the Colorado, experience the excitement, serenity, joy and enchanting beauty of the river as it transforms this divine chasm and those who venture down it. Raft 188 miles in 6 or 7 days, each day descending deeper into geologic time. The Grand Canyon is ever-changing, with massive walls that step back to expose eons of natural history at one place dark and narrow, and at another lush with waterfalls thundering hundreds of feet in luminous freefall. Daily side hikes lead you to sparkling streams, pristine pools, green fern glens, and ancient Anasazi ruins. The Canyon s scenic extremes are matched by the size and intensity of its 60 rapids where Western s specially designed J-Rigs will give you maximum excitement, safety and comfort. For full itinerary, photos & video visit us at westernriver.com see insert for rates and dates Grand Canyon 7-Day Trip Trips from april september» Ages 12+ Covering the same 188 miles of astounding Grand Canyon beauty as the 6-day trip, our 7-day experience offers one more precious day on the river. Take additional side hikes to waterfalls, hidden grottos, and Native American ruins, and spend more time at renowned sites like Havasu Canyon. Departs from Las Vegas, Nevada or Marble canyon, Arizona (Optional charter flight from Las Vegas to marble canyon, arizona: $235) NEVADA Bar Ten Lodge & Airstrip Whitmore Wash TRIP ENDS HERE UTAH ARIZONA Upset KAIBAB PLATEAU Deer Creek Havasu Canyon Lava Falls Helicopter Pad TRIP STARTS HERE Lee s Ferry Vasey s Paradise Elves Chasm Lake Powell Page Havasu Creek Badger House Rock Anasazi Granaries Mile Phantom Ranch Deubendorff Crystal Redwall Cavern Granite COCONINO PLATEAU Colorado River MAJOR RAPID Unkar Hance Horn Creek Hermit GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK Incredible, breathtaking, the most magical place on earth. I wasn t sure how this vacation would stack up to others, but after spending 6 days in that canyon it was without a doubt the best vacation of my life. I wouldn t be saying that were it not for our fabulous guides. If you are thinking about taking this trip do it. Whether you love being outdoors or love air conditioning and like myself you will love this trip. Thanks everyone for great food, fun, family, and friends. Katie Bouton, California Grand Canyon 6-Day Trip Trips from may september» Ages 12+ From Lees Ferry to Whitmore Wash, you ll discover spellbinding sites including Vasey s Paradise, Redwall Cavern, Deer Creek Falls, the warm turquoise waters of the Little Colorado, and renowned Havasu Canyon where countless tranquil pools beckon your arrival. Experience world-class whitewater, savor scrumptious meals, and sleep under a blanket of innumerable stars. Just after Lava Falls Rapid, your helicopter will take you over the rim to Bar 10 Ranch for a shower and lunch before your return flight to Marble Canyon or Las Vegas. RESERVE YOUR ADVENTURE TODAY! (800)

20 Grand Canyon 3 or 4 day trips The awesome beauty of Grand Canyon continues in the lower 100 miles of the canyon, and the Colorado River s famous rapids, though still exciting, are a bit tamer and less challenging. Massive sandstone cliffs conjure up imaginary shapes. Hidden waterfalls and pools carve their way down to the river. Wildlife is abundant, with frequent sightings of elusive Blue Heron, soaring hawks and eagles, and majestic Big Horn sheep. At night, the canyon walls unveil a heaven of countless stars. One of the great features of this 3-day trip is its ease of access from Las Vegas. Many guests choose to precede this trip with an optional day s activities and overnight stay at Bar Ten Ranch on the rim of the Grand Canyon. departs from las vegas, Nevada (Trips include charter flight to Grand Canyon, helicopter, and motor coach return) RESERVE YOUR ADVENTURE TODAY! (800) Our friends and family were surprised that we chose this trip, but it was one of the best vacations we ve ever taken. We had been imagining sleeping under the stars in the Grand Canyon for months, but still weren t prepared for the aweinspiring spectacle of the universe spread above us. If that weren t enough, the moon rising late at night to light our campsite gave us a sense of how grand this place really was and how fortunate we were to experience it in this way. Reba Bond, New Jersey Grand Canyon 3-Day Trip Trips from april september» Ages 9+ Enjoy a beautiful flight from Las Vegas to Bar 10 Ranch, where a helicopter takes you deep into Grand Canyon. During the course of your expedition, you ll enjoy moderate whitewater, calm stretches of river enveloped by astounding scenery, and hikes to places like Travertine Grotto, a fantastic series of hidden waterfalls and pools. At the end of your journey, a deluxe motor coach will be waiting to return you to Las Vegas. For full itinerary, photos & video visit us at westernriver.com see insert for rates and dates Grand Canyon 4-Day River & Ranch Trips from may september» Ages 9+ Before you begin your 3-day exploration of Grand Canyon, enjoy an overnight stay at Bar 10 Ranch, a working cattle ranch perched high on the canyon rim. Your transition from civilization to wilderness includes horseback trail rides, skeet shooting, chuck wagon dinner and evening entertainment before settling into bed in the lodge or outdoors in a covered wagon. After a country breakfast a helicopter takes you into the canyon. 18

21 Grand Canyon whitmore wash to lake mead 19

22 Highlights: > Oarboat, paddleboat, and kayak choices > Beautiful alpine wilderness > Crystal-clear rivers > Excellent fishing > Exciting Class III IV Whitewater Idaho wilderness 20

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24 22 Idaho salmon river and snake river

25 Idaho Rafting Adventures For full itinerary, photos & video visit us at westernriver.com see insert for rates and dates A dramatic contrast to the red rock canyons of the Southwest, Idaho s dense pine forests, towering mountain peaks, and rugged alpine beauty attract visitors worldwide. In the heart of the largest road-less wilderness in the lower 48 states, the Main Salmon River, the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, and the Snake River through Hells Canyon provide some of the nation s most renowned whitewater rafting vacations. Come, embark on a journey in style and comfort through the awe-inspiring canyons of Idaho. salmon river Middle Fork of the Salmon River 5 or 6 Days Trips from june august» Ages 7+ Departure Locations: salmon river canyons: Lewiston, Idaho Main Salmon: Boise or Salmon, Idaho Middle Fork: Boise or Stanley, Idaho Snake River: Boise or Cambridge, Idaho (Optional Travel Package for round trip from Boise not included. Trip partners: row and action whitewater adventures) Salmon River Lewiston Canyons Snake Main Salmon River Salmon Middle Fork Cambridge Stanley BOISE IDAHO I was awed by the majesty of the canyon and power of the rapids. Your guides showed a hight degree of skill and professionalism making the whole experience just as you promised it would be, one of our most memorable vacations. Thank you so much! orlando, florida salmon river Main & Lower Salmon 5 Days Trips from june august» Ages 5+ Rich in scenic wonder and history, the Salmon River features 2 popular trips. The Main Salmon adventure winds through dense pine forests garnished with riverside hot springs and historic homesteads. The Salmon River Canyons Family Magic trip on the Lower Salmon offers huge sandy camping beaches and a dedicated River Jester who entertains the children with nature hikes and fun activities. Both provide the perfect blend of whitewater and relaxation. Among river runners, the Middle Fork of the Salmon is a legend. One-hundred and five miles of pure, clear, free-flowing river drop 3,000 feet through astounding canyons. Experience over 100 whitewater rapids, fish in the river s clear mountain waters, relax in natural hot springs, hike to magnificent waterfalls, and camp in alpine meadows. Natural and untamed, the Middle Fork offers an unforgettable experience. snake river Snake River in Hells Canyon 4, 5 or 6 Days Trips from may september» Ages 7+ Straddling the borders of Idaho and Oregon, the Snake River cuts through the deepest river gorge in North America Hells Canyon. Journey through a land rich in myth and geologic wonder. Discover the biggest rapids in the Pacific Northwest. Here mountains of golden grass and pine forest topped with snow capped peaks are home to soaring eagles, wild mountain goats and Native American legends. RESERVE YOUR ADVENTURE TODAY! (800)

26 From the moment I first met your team, I was greeted with a smile, taken care of with great attention to detail, given thorough explanations about procedure and safety, and then told fascinating tales about the river and its magical history. Their generosity and good spirit made all of us feel that we d made real friends with whom we could be ourselves - in comfort and ease. lainie, Texas the western way BEST GUIDES & LEADERS Many things set Western apart. First and foremost are our guides. Since most of our guides return year after year, we choose only a handful of the very best from hundreds of applicants. Then, through one of the most rigorous training programs in the industry, each of our guides receives over 300 hours of training in river safety, culinary arts, and natural history interpretation assuring you the highest possible levels of both service and security. Repeatedly, our guests tell us their guides were the best part of their trip. 24

27 the western way The Western Way is a company culture that has been cultivated over five decades. It is an attention to detail that doesn t always allow us to take the easy way, but which we all believe is well worth the extra effort. We hire and train amazingly talented people, and the combination of their personalities and skills creates something that is truly outstanding. We are all very passionate about what we do and about the special places in which we are privileged to live and work. We think of ourselves as shepherds with a duty to lead our guests through these canyons and deliver them safe and happy at the end. Along the way we hope to teach, entertain, encourage, inspire, and create lasting friendships. Seeing these places for the first time again, through the eyes of our guests, gives us our greatest satisfaction. 25

28 I still haven t come down from this trip! It was amazing, beautiful, adventurous, fun, exciting & spiritual all at the same time. Having never camped a day in my adult life, I did things I never thought possible. From setting up tents to sleeping under the stars to washing in the river - it was incredible. I am so thankful we had the chance to experience the Grand Canyon on the river. Florence Purcell, New York the western way worry-free camping If you ve never run a river or slept outdoors, you are like many of our guests. Relax. Whether you re a seasoned river rat or an urban city slicker, Western River makes it easy and comfortable to enjoy the outdoors. Whatever your trip choice, you ll find that every expedition is packed with the same first-class amenities including cots, tents, sleeping bags, sheets, camp chairs and freshly prepared meals. 26

29 Your J-Rig and all of the equipment you supplied were top quality. The design of your J-Rig provided both maximum comfort for the less adventuresome and exhilarating thrills for the white water fans. stuart, meg, & eric yoak, Missouri Experience the Fun & Exhilaration of an Oar Boat On the Green River, Westwater, Cataract (later in the summer), and all Idaho rivers, guides adeptly maneuver three to six-passenger oar boats. These specially designed 18-foot rafts are self-bailing which means that you ll never touch a bail bucket, except for an impromptu water fight! the western way the finest fleet Just the thought of rapids makes a first-timer tense and a seasoned rafter salivate. But rapids should be respected, not feared. Our rafts are designed to ride the rapids safely and Western s guides are trained to skillfully steer you through the excitement. Secure handholds, life jackets, and plenty of advance preparation ensure a fun experience. If you re a thrill seeker, sit up front where the waves hit hardest, or ride aft for more protection. Either way, plan on having the time of your life. The rapids on each trip vary, depending on the time of year and speed of the water. Western matches its rafts to the flow of the river to provide the best experience. For example, a moderate late-season rapid taken in a small inflatable kayak can be just as thrilling as a monster rapid navigated in a J-rig. boat schedule: BOAT SCHEDULE: May change based on water levels/participation. j = J-rig; O = Oar Boat; p = Paddleboat; k = Inflatable Kayak; S = Snout Rig TriP apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Green River O K O K Cataract Canyon 4-Day J J O O P O p Cataract Express s s s Westwater Canyon O O O P O P O P Idaho Trips O P K O P K O P K O P K O P K Grand Canyon J J J J J J find detailed boat diagrams at westernriver.com Ride Big Whitewater on Western s j-rig Bigger rapids demand bigger rafts such as Western s patented J-Rig. Where the Colorado River carves through Cataract Canyon earlier in the summer and on our Grand Canyon trips, J-Rig s are the vessel of choice for maximum excitement and safety. Environmentally friendly, quiet 4-stroke motors power these rugged rafts specially built for Western. Cataract Express on our High-Speed Snout Rig On our 2-Day Cataract Canyon trip, our custom snout rigs skim across the calm water sections and provide huge excitement in the whitewater. Paddle Your Own Inflatable Kayak When water levels are suitable, twoperson inflatable kayaks let you challenge the rapids on your own during Green River and Idaho River trips. When you re ready to kick back and relax, simply return to your oar boat, stretch out in the sun, and let your guide do the work. Join Paddleboat Camaraderie On Westwater, Snake, Salmon, & Cataract Canyon trips (when water levels allow), you can join the spirited crew of a paddleboat. RESERVE YOUR ADVENTURE TODAY! (800)

30 What to expect on a river trip with Western River Expeditions The most amazing adventure of a lifetime. The majesty of the Canyon is beyond anything I could have imagined and the hiking into the side canyons awesome. Our guides Johnny, Wiley, Nate and Patrick are people I will never forget, entertaining, knowledgeable, funny, the best cooks ever and just wonderful, wonderful people. The team on our rig were fabulous as well, again amazing and wonderful people. Thank you all so much, I had so much fun going down the rapids my sides ached from laughing and I dream of the day I will be able to return. This trip was out of this world and beyond my dreams. Sandra Hicks, United Kingdom Choosing your adventure» We want to make sure that the vacation package you select is an adventure of a lifetime. Rest assured, we will make every possible effort to ensure your comfort and safety while traveling with us. We have a five decade history of satisfied guests, and we are excited to have you join their ranks. During the pre-trip planning process, we often receive a number of questions related to choosing which trip is best for you, the nature of a river trip, what to expect during the trip, and what degree of physical conditioning is required. While we have found that we can accommodate a wide range of abilities on all of our rafting trips, the better prepared you are, the more you will enjoy yourself. physical requirements for guests» Our primary concern is participant safety. The nature of an outdoor adventure involves some physical exertion and also possible exposure to weather conditions that can fluctuate greatly due to heat, sun, wind, or rain. Although we do have experience accommodating persons with a wide range of physical challenges, disabilities, or medical and health conditions, we have found that for some people the fact of age, weight, lack of conditioning, heart or other disease, can create additional hardship that diminishes the suitability or enjoyment of this type of vacation. Please consider these conditions in making your choice of river adventures. Please check with your physician prior to your trip if you have any medical or health condition or if you are taking any medications, and then notify us of how we can better help you with these conditions. In general, participants will need to meet the following physical requirements: Fit into a Type 5 Life Jacket (maximum chest size 52 ) required by the National Park Service. Securely grip ropes provided for handholds while running the rapids. Climb on and off the rafts. Depending on type of raft this could be as much as a 2-3-foot reach and often on wet and slippery surfaces. Navigate uneven terrain on hikes and in camp. Carry your own dry bag which will include your 20-pound duffle bag along with the sleeping bag and ground cover we provide. Our principle objective is for you and your fellow guests to have a safe, enjoyable and fulfilling experience. If you are concerned about any of these requirements, please call our friendly staff to further discuss which trip is right for you. Our Acknowledgement of Risk Form will more fully describe some of the inherent risks involved in these activities. We look forward to having you join us on the adventure of a lifetime. a typical day on the river» After meeting your guides you will be given a trip orientation that will include how and where you can sit on the rafts, how to hold on, and safety precautions while on the river. A typical day will include rafting for a few hours at a time, stopping for scenic side-canyon hikes, bathroom breaks, lunch and possible swimming opportunities. Visiting with new-found friends and learning river lore and geology from our well-trained guides adds to the enjoyment of each day. After a full day of learning and fun we arrive in camp. Guests will find their personal campsite and then return to the rafts for the famous fireline the way we load and unload rafts. Your help in passing the gear off the boat is greatly appreciated; however, if you have physical restrictions or limitations that would prohibit you from participating, you are not required to help. The first evening in camp, the guides will give a demonstration on how to easily assemble the cots and tents and will be available to help you if you need additional assistance. Western River provides cots, tents, sleeping bags, sheets, camp chair and water-proof gear bags for all guests. You ll have no need to worry about bringing any of your own camping equipment. While you relax at the river s edge, your guides will prepare dinner. Every night is different, but the menu may include items such as grilled chicken breast, steak with sautéed onions, pasta or fresh fish. At night, whether you choose to sleep in your tent or under the vast canopy of stars, the fresh night air and the rhythm of the river will lull you to sleep. Each morning, your guides will prepare a delicious breakfast. You ll have a chance to enjoy eating before returning to your campsite to take down your tent and cot and pack up your belongings in your dry bag. After bringing your bag down to the boats, guests participate in the fireline once again and you are off on another fun-filled day of adventure. 28

31 The setting and pace of a rafting adventure gives you something you won t find in other vacations. On a Western River Expedition, you will quickly discover why so many are calling this the best vacation of their lives. It s the combination of drifting over tranquil pools of water under the shadows of towering rock formations, the exhilaration and thrill of rolling waves and splashing whitewater, the exploration of seldom-seen waterfalls and Native American history, the peaceful moments of reflection as you gaze up at the star-studded sky, and the fresh feeling of renewal as the morning sun slowly filters through winding canyons. All this provides an indescribable sense of belonging. A sense of oneness with yourself and those around you. A sense of adventure, reflection and renewal. Come discover the difference. 29

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33 GROUP TRIPS MADE SIMPLE Go for free when you charter your own exclusive trip! Looking for the perfect reunion of family or friends, business retreat, or club adventure? With Western River Expeditions group trips, your planning couldn t be easier. Simply reserve a trip and date and we ll hold space for your group members. Your group members can then call in and make their own reservation or reserve online. Once your group size meets a discount level, your discount will be applied! More online at westernriver.com/trips/group-travel FAMILY VACATIONS WITH A DIFFERENCE A rafting vacation with Western River has all the ingredients for an outstanding family experience: water, adventure, fun, learning, and for the younger kids, the chance to stay dirty. Families are guaranteed some precious quality time together away from phones, computers, video games and TV. Western designates certain trip dates as family trips. Call our friendly staff and we ll help find the right trip for your family. Stress-Free Travel Whether you re traveling with a group, family, friends or solo, Western s trips are the perfect choice. You ll have no worries about where to stay and what to do. You ll have no meals to prepare. And without the worries and distractions, you ll soon discover that a Western vacation provides a one-of-a-kind setting for deepening bonds and creating unforgettable memories. 31

34 I have been to Mexico, the Bahamas, and Europe. I have gone skydiving, bungee jumping, and flown in a fighter trainer. This trip has been without a doubt the most memorable experience I ve ever had. This trip has done something others haven t. It has truly touched our souls. Meridian, Connecticut PREPARING FOR YOUR TRIP Getting ready for a rafting adventure with Western River Expeditions couldn t be easier. Western supplies all the camping equipment, prepares all the meals, and provides a simple packing list for the rest. You ll receive your packing list before your departure or you can access it online anytime, making it simple to find the perfect clothing and gear for the river. 32

35 Get ready for Adventure! Find the Essentials For Your Trip at westernriver.com! Browse your packing list online for recommendations of gear and apparel that will keep you smiling every second of your adventure. raingear Footwear river guidebooks headlamps clothing

36 THERE IS NOTHING LIKE A RIVER TRIP TO PUT EVERYTHING BACK IN PERSPECTIVE Racquet Club Drive Salt Lake City, Utah Mon-Fri 7:00am 6:00pm MST Fax: gorafting@westernriver.com online: Visit westernriver.com Detailed itineraries Photo galleries Online video Customer reviews 24/7 reservations PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID PRSRT STD western river U.S. Postage expeditions PAID western river expeditions