White-water rapids are non-existent with Grand Canyon rafting. Tour while floating on smooth water. The emphasis is daylong river-centered float tours as visitors of all ages see the canyon from a uniquely different perspective.

Start your tour right from Grand Canyon National Park or outside the main gate at the town of Tusayan, AZ. The ultimate goal is the base of Glen Canyon Dam, reached with a tunnel drive of two miles, but first select a flight or bus trip to Page, AZ.

Climb in for a15.5- mile float trip with the smooth ride of the Colorado River under the inflatable motorized passenger river raft. Immediately, the scenery gets interesting as you cruise around world-famous Horseshoe Bend. Downstream, you pull out and take a short walk to a cliff wall where the Puebloan peoples made ancient petroglyphs.

Anything pique your curiosity? Ask your professional river guide. From the many types of wildlife that call the canyon area home to the incredible cliffs of sandstone and sparkling waters of blue-green tavertine, the guides have taken in this knowledge and are ready to share with you.

Lee's Ferry marks the end of the float tour that takes 2.5 hours with a break for lunch halfway through. Once you land, your return trip to the South Rim begins on a luxurious motor coach with air conditioning. En route, you'll pass through the mystic Navajo Indian Reservation while being treated to excellent views of the Painted Desert. There's also a stop at the Cameron Trading Post where you can purchase authentic Indian handicrafts.

From opening day in April to November closing, float tours require a full day. Departures are early in the morning. Nearly three hours is used by the float trip. I suggest using lots of sunscreen for tourists during the hot May through September months. It's better to travel in comfortable clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat. The water is tempting, so bring along a suit for swimming. Free water and juice is provided on the raft to keep guests hydrated.

Perks like pickup and delivery in the Grand Canyon Village and Tusayan hotel areas, a luxury motor coach, expert guide, lunch, park fees and the water rafting float tours are part of the package. The Grand Canyon Airport is another option as a pickup point for your trip.

Bus-rafting packages are the most economical way and start at $170 per person. Each person spends from $329 for airplane-rafting jaunts. Shopping online presents the best bargain available. My research shows that you can get up to 35 percent off if you book on the Internet. Booking these trips online is much safer than you found in the past. I purchase all my raft trips on the Web and I've never had any issues.

Experience the opportunity to explore the Grand Canyon from the water instead of gazing from the rim. No need for pro status to enjoy Grand Canyon rafting. If you are looking for the more calm waters of the Colorado River, take a bus or plane and venture upstream. The gentle water brushes your feet. Soak up the ambiance and enjoy. Head for shore and gaze at ancient Indian art. Enjoy the freedom. Grand Canyon rafting in the form of smooth water float tours helps create great memories of the trip.