Float trips down the Grand Canyon have to be one of the best ways to experience this awesome National Park. By floating leisurely through the Grand Canyon on the Colorado River, you will have ample time to soak up the beauty of the area. Floats through the Grand Canyon start near Grand Canyon Village, but you have several options for arriving at the launch point of which the most popular features an airplane flight to the launch point with bus transportation back to the South Rim

There is an airport in Tusayan, Arizona that flies tourists in and out of the Grand Canyon that is located just outside the main gates of the park. Flying east, you'll pass over Navajo country and the fabulous Painted Desert before landing at Page, Arizona.

Then a 4x4 Jeep will transport you to an amazing place called Antelope Canyon. The channels cut between the rocks of the canyon are wide enough to walk through. Then the Jeep will take you to the Glen Canyon Dam after driving through a tunnel that is two miles long. The dam itself is a spectacular sight, towering more than 70 stories high. Grand Canyon smooth-water rafting tours launch from this awe-inspiring spot.

If you'd rather skip the flight, you can take a motor coach tour to Glen Canyon Dam. By doing that, you can stop at the Glen Canyon Recreational Area. The tour guides are very knowledgeable about the history and geology of the area, and they love to explain the amazing scenery you will encounter.

Grand Canyon float tours meander down the Colorado River for more than 15 awesome miles, which is enough time and distance to let you see some truly majestic sights as you're soaking up the area's tranquility. You'll land at Horseshoe Bend, where after a short walk you'll be able to view ancient Native American petroglyphs (rock drawings). You'll also enjoy lunch while relaxing in the shade of the orange cliffs towering above you.

Afterwards, you will resume your float down the river until you come to a historic fort and trading post called Lee's Ferry. The smooth-water floating comes to an end here, so you will hop on a bus and head to the South Rim. The bus trip includes a stop to shop at Cameron Trading Post where you will find some great Native American crafts to buy.

Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen, because you'll be spending several hours in the hot sun. You will want to wear a swimsuit since there will be opportunities to take a cool dip in the water, but it is advisable to wear long sleeves while floating for protection from the sun. Drinking water is also a necessity, and you should bring some along if it isn't provided by your tour.

Grand Canyon rafting tours are probably the most memorable of all the adventures you could choose. The water is very calm and there are no rapids to worry about so these trips are ideal for kids and grandma and grandpa too. You will want to book your trip in advance though, because seats sell out pretty fast. Locate a tour company with a good reputation and make your reservations well in advance.