Grand Canyon river running was once considered the adventurer s adventure and only for the daring or foolhardy. It is now considered safe for just about anyone, a fact conclusively demonstrated by the data. In contrast, today it is considered awe-inspiring, exciting, and comfortable. And while today's trip is beyond comparison especially with regard to comfort, the transition away from fear to that of diversion is mostly the direct result of tremendous advances in safety. Prior to the late 1930's, an adventurer who dared the mighty Colorado had a nearly 1000-fold higher risk of dying than travelers experience today.
Safety is a high priority and has been for decades.
In fact, statistics show that safety on river trips in the Grand Canyon has continued to improve over time. To accomplish this there are a few things one needs to understand. First, safety always begins with prevention. Both locations present a unique set of potential hazards, and both need to be approached differently with regard to prevention. With over 160 rapids, many of which are large and very powerful, there is potential for boating accidents.