On the subject of rafting the Grand Canyon, most visualize costly seven-day white water adventures. The alternative? The 1-day smooth-water float tour. Relaxing and enjoyable, these South Rim trips are so affordable that even the most frugal traveler is going to be happy.

This specific float trip starts by boarding a luxury bus and traveling 140 miles east via Grand Canyon National Park to Glen Canyon Dam in Page, Az. Here your tour bus will drive down the dam's two-mile entry tunnel until you get to the base and board your motorized pontoon raft.

Now you'll push off into smooth water and float amongst canyon walls until you get to spectacular Horseshoe Bend, the famous "U" that blends the very best of the region's red sandstone cliffs with the river's sparkling emerald waters. Onward, you'll get out at one of many sandy beaches and take a brief stroll to a cliff wall in which ancient inhabitants left petroglyphs.

Among the great things about these all-inclusive excursions would be the boatmen. These river guides navigate the river with skill and ease. Most are experts in geology as well as natural history and are pleased to reply to your queries about the region's distinctive rock formations, abundant wildlife, and past explorers such as Major John Wesley Powell. It's typical to tip your guide in case you found him or her particularly helpful.

The Colorado begins to widen and also the vegetation begins to thicken as you head further west toward the historical town of Lee's Ferry, portal to the Grand Canyon. It is the sole spot for the next 260 miles where you are able to cross the Colorado River. Still standing are a vintage fort plus a trading post. John D. Lee, under a commission from the Mormon Church, built and run the ferry, which turned obsolete in 1928 once the Navajo Bridge was completed. The town now serves as the beginning for all white-water trips.

At Lee's Ferry, you'll move to your luxurious motor coach and begin the return trip to your South Rim accommodation. En route, you'll see the mystical Navajo Indian Reservation and also the surreal Painted Desert, and you will halt at the Cameron Trading Post, an excellent location to buy authentic Native American handicrafts.

The Grand Canyon smooth-water float trip with luxury bus is all-inclusive and includes free hotel shuttle service, lunch, and drinks. Summer time journeys can become hot and I strongly suggest you carry sun block and a hat and drink plenty of water. Bring a swimsuit or wear one beneath your garments if you want to take a swim. This really is all-day trip is suitable for ages 4 years or more.

The list price of this trip is a deal. If you would like the best offer, purchase your journey on the Internet. I recommend this tactic to family and friends. It's not unusual to discover this bundle provided at a 35% discount. Buy your seats ahead of time, too. Rafts carry between 15 to 22 people. Being that this is one of the most popular day journeys on the South Rim, seats sell out quickly.

Float tours are ideal for travelers who want no rapids as they proceed down the Colorado River. The 15.5-mile trip starts at Glen Canyon Dam and comes to an end at Lee's Ferry. In between, you will experience some the most gorgeous scenery in the Western U.S. You'd think an outing such as this one would cost a fortune. Not so! Come aboard one and all, and discover the Colorado River in all its peaceful splendor.