Grand Canyon Rafting Trips Will Continue Uninterrupted Despite National Park Budget Cuts
Despite recent federal budget cuts to the National Park Service, Western River Expeditions confirms that Grand Canyon rafting trips will continue uninterrupted, ensuring a seamless experience through this iconic landscape.
SALT LAKE CITY, UT, April 29, 2025 – While recent federal budget cuts to the National Park Service may impact visitor experiences across the country, travelers planning a Grand Canyon rafting trip with Western River Expeditions can rest easy: river adventures through this iconic landscape will go forward without disruption.
"Unlike some land-based activities that rely heavily on park staffing, our river trips operate independently," explains Brian Merrill, CEO of Western River Expeditions. "Our trained guides and self-sufficient operations ensure guests experience the Grand Canyon’s wonders without interruption."
Why Western River Expeditions' Grand Canyon Trips Remain Secure:
- History of Continuity: Even during past government shutdowns, Grand Canyon National Park has remained open and accessible, thanks to state-level funding support from Arizona.
- Operational Independence: As a licensed concessionaire, Western River Expeditions staffs, supplies, operates and manages its own trips under a long-term contract with the National Park Service.
- Emergency Readiness: Open communication with park officials ensures that emergency services will remain operational even during federal staffing shortages.
Western River Expeditions recommends that travelers consider purchasing travel insurance for added peace of mind when booking their trip.
A High-Demand Experience
Bonnie Cratch, Reservations Manager at Western River Expeditions, emphasizes the importance of early planning: “Grand Canyon trips are always in extremely high demand. Strict regulations cap the number of rafting participants allowed each year, so reservations fill quickly.”
The rafting season on the Colorado River runs from April through September. There are still a few spots available for August 2025 for those who act quickly.
- Grand Canyon 6 or 7 Day Rafting Trip (ages 12+), featuring thrilling Class III–V rapids and unforgettable hikes into hidden canyons.
- Grand Canyon 4 Day Rafting Trip (ages 9+), perfect for families and first-timers, with exciting Class II–III rapids and incredible side canyon explorations.
Every trip includes off-river hikes to waterfalls, slot canyons, ancient ruins, and breathtaking side canyons — places unseen by most rim visitors. Western’s exclusive J-Rig rafts offer accessibility and comfort, even through the canyon’s most thrilling whitewater.
Plan Your Adventure
To request a 2025 catalog, check availability, or make reservations:
Call: 866-904-1160 (Local: 801-942-6669)
Visit: www.westernriver.com
Learn more about Grand Canyon rafting trips:
https://www.westernriver.com/grand-canyon-rafting
About Western River Expeditions
Since 1961, Western River Expeditions has led professionally guided rafting trips through Utah, Idaho, Oregon, and Arizona. As the Grand Canyon’s largest licensed outfitter and Moab’s leading adventure provider (through its division, Moab Adventure Center), Western River Expeditions continues to earn national recognition — including being named the #1 Whitewater Rafting Company in the U.S. by Newsweek (April 2025) and earning 21 consecutive Best of State awards in Utah.
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