What if it rains on my Grand Canyon rafting trip?

Arizona weather can be unpredictable. While we can say, in general, that spring is windy and by the end of October nights will be cold, nature likes to prove us wrong. July and August usually bring monsoon rains, but there is no way for us to predict exactly what kind of weather you’ll encounter on your Hatch River Expedition adventure.

The most inclement weather you’re likely to find on the river is a rain storm. Sometimes these last 15 minutes, sometimes an hour, and sometimes it feels like the whole trip. Fortunately, you signed up for a river trip, so you were prepared to get wet anyway! 

Still, it doesn’t hurt to have a few things in mind to make your trip enjoyable when the unexpected (or expected) happens. Here’s our tips for if it rains on your rafting trip.

Tips for Dealing with Rain on Your Trip

Here are some tips for camping in rainy conditions:

• Don’t skimp on rain gear
  • Something lightweight is fine, just make sure it has a hood that cinches tight, and sleeves and pant legs with elastic or Velcro to keep water out. (No ponchos!) This piece of gear is absolutely essential for every trip. It will not only keep you from getting wet in a storm, but can keep you dry and warm when hitting those early morning rapids or spending long stretches in the shade. 
• Protect your gear
  • Hatch provides you with a day dry bag and a night dry bag. Use them to store your things safely from the rain and the rapids. Bonus: If you are carrying electronics or other water sensitive items, protect them with ziplock bags or waterproof cases. 
• Plan ahead
  • If it looks like rain, set up a tent even if you don’t intend to use it. When the weather turns, it will be easy to climb in and stay dry. 
• Don’t wake up in a puddle
  • When you set up your tent, find elevated and slightly angled ground that the water can run off of. Whatever you do, don’t set up in a low spot where water is likely to pool. Try to keep your gear away from the sides of the tent as those points of contact are where leaks are most likely to occur. 

Enjoy the rain!

Most Hatch trips aren’t followed by dark clouds. If it rains on your rafting trip, it will likely be pretty temporary.

If you are lucky enough to experience some rain on your trip, you’ll get to see waterfalls that are not in the Canyon the rest of the year. Revel in your good fortune if you are one of the few who gets to see water cascading down the Redwall Limestone cliffs in Marble Canyon or deepening the black Vishnu Schist in the inner gorge.  In our opinion, there is no bad weather in the Canyon!

Check on the weather for your trip with this 7 Day Forecast for Phantom Ranch from the National Weather Service. It’s only one point along the 188 miles you’ll be traveling, but it’s the only weather station at the bottom of Grand Canyon!

Are you ready to experience the wonders of the Canyon rain? 

Check out our trip offerings and start preparing for your Colorado River rafting adventure today!