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Ceiba Adventures Logistics and Put-in information for the Grand Canyon

 

Lee’s Ferry, Marble Canyon, AZ

Lee’s Ferry/Marble Canyon is where Grand Canyon river trips launch from. Two and a half hours from Flagstaff, Marble Canyon is home to three lodges (Marble Canyon Lodge, Lee’s Ferry Lodge, and Cliff Dweller’s Lodge). All have multiple services, including restaurants, pay phones, and outgoing mail.

Rig Day:
Traveling from your point of origin to Lee’s Ferry and then rigging your boats usually takes a full day. Many of Ceiba’s services can alleviate frustration and save time if you utilize them!

There is electricity at Lee’s Ferry, bathrooms (no showers), and a private river runner’s camp spot just downstream from the launch ramp. It is illegal to camp on the ramp.

Often, several (or many) private, commercial, and science trips rig on the same day at the ramp. Use just enough space to complete your rig, on the far downstream end of the ramp.

Launch Day:
If the NPS ranger hasn’t checked in with you by this time, he or she will stop by in the morning to start the “checkout” and let you know about the orientation video. Your entire group must watch this video, and it is a good idea to call the Lee’s Ferry Ranger Office one week before your trip to arrange for this. Phone number: (928) 355-2232

Don’t forget:
Trip paperwork
Valid photo ID for everyone on the trip
Participant roster with names (including middle initials) and social security #s
Copy of the Colorado River Operating Requirements (CORS)

Fun in Hermit Rapid

Take-out information - Grand Canyon:

Diamond Creek, AZ; River Mile 226; Hualapai Indian Reservation

It can be busy and hectic at Diamond Creek! Putting some time and effort into planning your take-out is of the utmost importance. Think about de-rig procedures that will save you and your group time on the ramp. Camping within 5 miles of the take-out is a must. During the regular boating season, ONLY the Hualapai are allowed to rig and de-rig on the Diamond Creek ramp between 7 AM and 10 AM. Please be friendly and patient with all the different parties at the take-out, and pay respect to the Hualapai. From the take-out, it takes a solid hour to drive up Diamond Creek Road, which is unpaved, to Route 66.

The Hualapai Tribe charges exit fees for every river trip. They charge $64.20 per person, per vehicle, and per driver.

Ceiba will be happy to assist you with any or all of your Diamond Creek take-out logistics!

If you are planning on going below Diamond Creek and doing the "Diamond Down" section, Ceiba can assist you with all these options as well. We have 15 hp Honda 4 stroke outboard motors available, transoms to fit 18' row boats, fuel tanks, and we can bring in a re-supply with fresh food, ice, beer, and anything your group desires for the lower end of your trip. Ceiba's expertise is this area is a strong resource to consider.

***Check out our PDF, on all the latest camping options below Diamond Creek all the way to the new Pierce Ferry Take Out - Click Here

Pierce Ferry Ramp, Lake Mead, River Mile 279

The new Pierce Ferry Ramp, take-out opened on March 15th, 2010. It is being used by commercial outfitters, Canyon Jet Boat Services, the Hualapai Day Trips, science expeditions, and private boaters as well. At this time you are not allowed to launch a trip for a downstream or upstream trip. The PFR is a great take out to consider for a Diamond Down trip and is a very viable option for a complete canyon trip too. The lower Granite Gorge is spectacular from mile 226 to 237. There are six significant rapids and the current moves pretty well thru this corridor. Grand Canyon ends at Mile 276.5, the Grand Wash Cliffs.

Several 'Pros" to think about while considering the Diamond Down stretch are;
* Saving all the Hualapai exit fees without taking out at Diamond Creek.
* You get great rapids in the lower gorge.
* You'll see the entire Grand Canyon.
* Unlimited side canyon hikes.
* Lake Mead officially starts at 240 mile, Separation Canyon, but there is current well past PFR take out.
* No upstream traffic is allowed above 240 mile.

Please feel free to call us about all the current logistics for the Lake Mead take out options.

South Cove, Lake Mead, AZ; River Mile 297

This take out is still a viable option to consider as well but it all revolves around the nasty Class V rapid Pierce Ferry. It is entirely runnable as this writing (4-2010) and the additional 20 miles from Pierce Ferry to South Cove is incredible country to see. Plenty of camps on both sides of the river, but it can be hot during the summer months on Lake Mead. There are several small rapids at the end of IceBerg Canyon mile 292 that are fun. You'll also have 3 to 4 miles of blue "still" Lake Mead water to traverse to get to South Cove. There are no fees to the take out on the lake and the road to South Cove is entirely paved.

Let us know how we can help with your South Cove take-out!

Diamond Down

Utilizing Diamond Creek as a put-in and running the Lower Gorge is becoming more and more popular. Putting together a private trip and utilizing a Ceiba motorized snout rig makes it a really enjoyable journey. Add a few row boats and inflatable kayaks and your group is set! Call us with questions when you’re planning this “short but sweet” adventure.

Helpful Hints

Hydration and Sanitation

Taking care of yourself is of utmost importance, for your benefit and that of your entire group. Staying hydrated with electrolyte-rich beverages daily will keep you happy and feeling good.

Sanitation starts with everyone always washing his/her hands before each meal, and after using the porto potty. Reminding each other of this task is ultimately the best way to make sure it happens.

Sunscreen, sun coverage (hats and lightweight long sleeves and pants), and staying cool in the heat are absolute musts for making your river adventure successful. Remember it’s a desert out there!

Winter and off-season trips can be a little different, with different gear and clothing needs. Feel free to contact us with questions and concerns about summer and winter extremes in the Canyon.

ACCIDENT INSURANCE

Accident Insurance is now available through Grand Canyon Private Boaters Association. This is an awesome opportunity to get accident insurance for your river trip. You must be a GCPBA member to qualify, so sign up first.

Then check out the many benefits the group policy through GCPBA program offers. Ceiba is recommending this accident insurance policy to all of our clients and participants. Contact them at www.GCPBA.org

Brittle Bush in March

Experience - Ceiba Adventures is proud to be an experienced Grand Canyon Private River Outfitter

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River Permits - Find out how to get a noncommercial River Permit for the Grand Canyon and Colorado River on our River Permits page.

We look forward to hearing from you!