Buzz From Canyon Raft Trip Hard to Shake

It's been a few months since my nine-day whitewater rafting trip in the Grand Canyon, and I still find myself struggling to readjust to the “real” world. Along with twenty-three others I participated in a Grand Canyon Field Institute-sponsored, oar-powered trip from the Phantom Ranch Boat Beach, to Diamond Creek.

This one hundred-plus stretch of the fabled chasm features enormous rapids, remarkable side canyons, towering waterfalls, peculiar wildlife, and sandy beaches.

Indeed, one of the biggest challenges for the 25,000 lucky ducks who take on the Colorado River through Grand Canyon each year is trying to convey their experience upon returning home. It remains elusive to all but the most eloquent of writers and indescribable for those with a mere website column as their vehicle. My advice is to experience the magic firsthand. With the sagging economy, the commercial river running companies are holding their prices, and the days of waiting two years to snag an available spot are gone. So go ahead and break the piggy bank and treat yourself to the trip of a lifetime!