Over 270 miles in length, the Colorado River flows through 70 major rapids and drops about 2,000 feet over its course. After obtaining a river permit from the Park Service, about a third of river runners do it themselves. The park only accepts applications in February. Be aware that the waiting list for a permit stands at over 6,000 names. Click here for details from the Park Service.
Most people sign up with a commercial river company to handle the trip details.
Commercial river trips begin at Lees Ferry and can last from 3 days to 3 weeks. Some companies offer partial trips ending at, or starting from, Phantom Ranch, which is accessible only by trail from Grand Canyon Village or the North Rim. Visit the Park Service Web site for a complete list of commercial operators . Fishing Fishing in the park requires an Arizona state fishing license. Licenses are not available at the North Rim.