SALT LAKE CITY - s4story -- Every year, more than 5 million people visit Grand Canyon National Park. Yet fewer than 25,000—roughly .05%—ever experience the canyon from its most awe-inspiring vantage point: the Colorado River itself.

Western River Expeditions, one of the few outfitters licensed to run commercial rafting trips through the Grand Canyon, will release 2027 Grand Canyon rafting dates on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at 6:00 PM Mountain Time (5 PM PT, 7 PM CT, 8 PM ET). Historically, many departures fill within minutes to hours.

A Rare Chance Few Ever Get

While millions peer over the rim, only about 1% of visitors go below it, whether by hiking or rafting. An even smaller segment completes multi-day rafting expeditions through the canyon's most secluded waterfalls, slot canyons, side hikes, and starlit beaches.

Announcing 2027 Reservations Opening December 3, 2025

Demand is already high. Western released its 2026 dates last December, and many trips have sold out. To secure a 2027 seat, Western strongly recommends:

• Review available 2027 dates (https://www.westernriver.com/grand-canyon-raft-trips-2027?utm_source=email&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=GC-Preview-11192027-1) before the on-sale time
• Choose 1–2 backup options
• Book immediately when reservations open. Visit: www.westernriver.com.
• Call 801-942-6669 for real-time assistance on Thursday morning December 4 if preferred

Why So Few Can Go

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Grand Canyon rafting permits are tightly limited by the National Park Service. Western River Expeditions, the largest and one of the longest-operating outfitters in the canyon, is among the select few companies licensed to guide guests along the river's 188 miles of world-class whitewater.

2027 Grand Canyon Expeditions

• 6–7 Day Full Canyon Expedition (https://www.westernriver.com/grand-canyon-vacation)

Lees Ferry to Lava Falls with helicopter exit

Nearly 200 miles of rapids, slot canyon hikes, waterfalls

Ages 12+

The most complete Grand Canyon river experience

• 4-Day Grand Canyon River & Ranch Adventure (https://www.westernriver.com/grand-canyon-rafti...)

Bar 10 Ranch stay plus helicopter entry and jetboat exit

Nearly 100 miles of rafting

Horseback riding, ranch activities, and scenic flight

Ages 9+

• 3-Day Grand Canyon Escape (https://www.westernriver.com/grand-canyon-river...)

Helicopter entry and jetboat exit

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Perfect for travelers short on time

Ages 9+

Grand Canyon by the Numbers

• 5 million+ park visitors annually
• <0.05% raft the river through its heart
• 25,000 annual river runners (commercial + private)
• 188 miles on the full canyon expedition
• 60+ years Western River Expeditions has guided the canyon
• Top 10% of global adventures on TripAdvisor

Booking Information

• 2027 reservations open Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at 6:00 PM Mountain Time.

To reserve your adventure:

• Visit: www.westernriver.com
• Call: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669)

Media Contact:

Dave Wiggins: 720.301.3822 / dave@travelnewssource.com