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Questions
What kind of kayaks do you use?
Our guided trips are equipped with high performance composite kayaks made by SEDA, Jackson Kayak, Delta,
Current Designs, Necky, and Perception. They are lightweight, strong, and fast. These boats have rudders to make steering easy,
along with sealed hatches to keep your items protected. These are top of the line boats.
What is included on a guided trip?
Guided trips are all inclusive. You will get personalized service, the best equipment, freshly prepared
and tasty meals, and a certified guide. All you do is show up; we take care of the rest! Your kayak will
have a rudder for easy steering, and we will give you a dry bag to keep your essentials safe. A guided
trip is the best value for your money. Your guide has the experience of reading the water currents, avoiding
dangerous situations, taking you to the best spots, and pointing out wildlife. If you feel uneasy or uncomfortable
about kayaking, or are a first time paddler, we recommend a guided trip.
I don’t know how to swim. Can I still go?
Although it is extremely beneficial to know how to swim, it is not necessary. Swimming, in most cases,
is optional. Nature can be unpredictable though, and there is always the possibility of capsizing. We take
every precaution to minimize risks and provide a safe, enjoyable experience. Personal flotation devices are
properly fitted to you, equipped with a whistle, and mandatory on all trips. Our guides are professionally
trained in river rescue techniques, as well as First Aid and CPR. They know how to read currents, keep you upright,
and bail you out if the need arises.
Is there white water? Will I tip over?
Most days, the river is moving flat water, with no rapids. Depending on wind, weather, and flow rates, there
can be choppy water, rolling waves, and even large swells along the way. Our kayaks are stable, and most people
make it through the day without any “out-of-boat” experiences. This doesn’t mean that you should take this river lightly.
The Colorado is a big cold river, and there can be strong currents, eddies, hidden obstacles, and other unforeseen
circumstances that may pose a threat. Our guides are prepared for this and will steer you in the right direction for
a safe and memorable experience.
Will I get wet?
Yes. This is a river trip! You will definitely get wet at least up to your knees. Anything above that is considered a bonus. The river is 54F degrees year round. It is quite refreshing during the heat of summer, but unless you want to become part of the polar bear club, too cold for winter swimming. Bathing suits are recommended for the hot springs. We will give you a dry bag to keep your belongings safe and dry.
What kind of experience do your guides have?
Our guides have been paddling personally and professionally for years. They possess a vast knowledge of the history
of the area, wildlife, plants, weather patterns, and river currents. Before they can become lead guides, they must
undergo a series of training programs which include rescue techniques, wind and weather, river kayaking, physical skills tests,
and written tests. Wilderness First Aid, CPR and AED training is standard, and we carry marine radios and cell phones at all
times.
What should I bring/wear?
In summer: Shorts and a T-shirt, along with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Wear a bathing suit under layers of clothing. Some people prefer long sleeves to protect from sun exposure. Be sure to wear river sandals or old tennis shoes that can get wet. Flip flops are not suitable for the area; the algae and moss is very slippery and flip flops don’t give enough support. You should definitely bring a camera or buy a waterproof disposable.
In winter: Bathing suit under long sleeves and pants (no cotton). Cotton tends to retain water, so fleece or synthetic material is best for cold weather. Nylon, polyester, capilene, and polypropylene work wonders. A light fleece jacket keeps you warm, and a pair of wool socks will warm your feet even when wet. A ski-type beanie or hat that covers your ears is oh-so-nice and a light pair of gloves will keep your digits toasty. Bring sunglasses and sunscreen. Water shoes or Teva type sandals will be fine. Don’t forget the camera!
What if I am a beginner?
You may start as a beginner, but you will end the trip as a confident kayaker. Our guides are professionals and we introduce newcomers to the sport everyday. A high percentage of our trips consist of first-time paddlers or those who have tried it once or twice. Because of this, we’ve chosen lightweight, fast kayaks equipped with rudders for easy steering. All trips will receive safety rules as well as basic paddling instructions. What better way to try a new sport?
Is there a minimum age requirement?
For guided trips, we recommend the child be at least 6 years old and paddle in a tandem kayak with an adult, or 14 years old if they wish to paddle their own kayak. Your guide may rearrange people throughout the day to balance the ability of the group. If you feel you can paddle for two, well we won’t stop you. Just remember, the trip is almost 12 miles.
Do you rent or sell equipment?
Yes to both. We rent boats, paddles, coolers, tents, sleeping bags, stoves, and camping equipment. Digital
waterproof cameras can be rented for the day, and photos burned to a high resolution CD for you to take home.
In our retail shop you can find last minute items such as sunscreen, dry bags, waterproof cameras, batteries, film,
squirt guns, etc. If you are looking for a new kayak, we can definitely set you up with everything you need. Want
to save a few bucks? We sell used equipment as well.
When should I make a reservation?
Space is limited, so you should make your reservations as early as possible. Holidays and weekends book up quickly,
so be sure to call ahead.
Where do we meet and what time will I get back?
We will pick you up at your hotel between 9:00-9:30 a.m. We will be kayaking by 10:45am and off the river by 3:00-4:00pm.
Depending on traffic, we should arrive back at your hotel around 5:00-5:30pm.
What is the best time of year to go?
Anytime! Our guides favor the fall and winter with calm, glassy waters, no motor boats, and fewer crowds.
Daytime winter temperatures hover in the low 60’s, making the hot springs inviting as steam rises above their
surface. Springtime brings colorful wildflowers, newborn wildlife, and warmer temperatures. Winds can sometimes be
brutal during March and April. Summer is just plain hot, but is still our busiest time of year. You are almost g
uaranteed to see bighorn sheep drinking from the river, and a good swim in the cold water is invigorating to say the least. We run trips year round, with a season for everyone!
Do you offer any discounts for children (or other)?
For our guided day trips, we offer a $10 discount for children 14 years and younger. Locals receive $20 off
any guided trip and $5 off any rental (must present a ID).
Is there a minimum number required for your trips?
Yes, certain trips have minimum requirements. The minimum # of people required for day trips is two (2) people.
Overnight camping trips and certain multi-sport trips require more.
Do you supply alcohol? May we bring our own?
For day trips, alcohol is not permitted. Safety is our main concern. We have a spotless record, and we want to keep
it that way. Combining tourists who aren’t used to desert temperatures of 120F with miles of paddling usually
equals dehydration. Mix alcohol into that equation, and it gets dangerous quickly. For the safety of our Guides,
drivers, guests, and everyone involved - if we feel you are intoxicated at the 6AM pickup (this is Vegas!) we will
refuse service, without a refund. Please do not show up drunk.
Should I buy travel insurance?
If you are concerned about the possibility of having to cancel, we strongly suggest you purchase trip cancellation
insurance to protect your vacation investment. Our cancellation policy will apply in every instance, with no
exceptions for any reason. Desert Adventures is not responsible for any expenses incurred due to travel delays,
flight cancellations, or illness. Desert Adventures assumes no financial responsibility for personal injury,
emergency evacuation, or equipment lost or damaged in any way.
What if I have to cancel?
We have a 14 day cancellation policy. Cancellations made 2 weeks prior to departure date will receive a full refund.
Cancellations made within those dates will be issued a percentage of their refund, with absolutely no refunds or
rescheduling within 48 hours. If you must reschedule, we require 48 hours notice and rescheduling fees
will apply. Desert Adventures will not issue any refund for leaving a trip early.
Trips run rain or shine. Desert Adventures reserves the right to cancel trips due to weather or unsafe
conditions. In this case, we will reschedule, issue a credit, or refund money, depending on individual
circumstances. For more information see our Payment & Cancellation Policies
section, or call our offices.
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