Ice…And Tequila?

Alternative titles, “The Big Ditch” or “The Grand Canyon”.

Our trip down the Colorado River was years in the making, starting with a dream and a group of men, who were once boys at Colorado Mountain College together. As a kid, I got the chance to go on a couple of raft trips. The first was also on the Colorado River, but where its runs through Westwater Canyon in Utah. I distinctly remember holding onto the front of the raft and watching the wall of water, wave after wave, come towards my face, while screams of joy erupted from within me.

Time passed and a little over two years ago, while I was returning from Thailand, I started reading the book, “The Emerald Mile” by Kevin Fedarko. A beautiful and gripping tale of the fastest run through the 300 miles of river that cuts the Grand Canyon. It tells the history of the canyon, a story of exploration, destruction, bravery, redemption and revitalization. As I read, I felt as if I was racing through the canyon myself and I knew that I was captivated by the beauty, power and awe of this place I barely knew.

Luckily for me, my dad never stopped dreaming about another trip on the Colorado River. I can now safely say that if you ever get the chance to row [or ride] a raft through the Grand Canyon do not hesitate. Drop everything and run to Lee’s Ferry.

I’ve been trying to figure out how to share about this adventure and I think I’ll do a mini-series. So, hang on to your hats and get ready to high-side because as they say on the river, “We’ll run her down the gut”.