Our riverboard trip this year was a combination of past participants, friends, and parts of one of the oldest river running families running in Grand Canyon, the Smiths’. Michael Bronstein Smith grew up as part of a river family, and swamped occasionally for his cousin, Latimer. Mike motivated the friends he played water polo with in College, a few of their friends, and his Mom and Dad to join the trip.

 

The fitness level of all the participants made it possible to have an active, fun, adventure filled trip. We did long hikes almost every day, and ran all the big lines that the Canyon has to offer. The incredible thing about riverboarding is the learning curve for folks that are fit, and comfortable in the water. Learning to read little features in the river, identify obstacles, and run really big waves comes quickly and easily to folks with a commitment. By the time we ran the gorge, making it to the “duck pond” at Hance, hitting the waves in Sockdolager, and choosing lines through Horn Creek and Crystal were done by individuals on their own. With the amazing professionalism of Harlan Taney as the safety kayaker, Abigail and I were able to keep folks on line and in the fun water. With a little direction, everyone was able to stay on line in Lava Falls, and have a great time.

The most amazing part about riverboarding is the ability to truly feel the river is such an intimate way. There is no rubber or plastic separating you from feeling the swirl of the eddies and the action of the waves. In my opinion, it not only creates a more intimate way to share the river, but also a deeper bond with the other folks in the water.

 

It is still such a unique experience that so few people have had the opportunity to try. It has the aura of a “radical” or “extreme” sport; but it is truly most suited for big Class 3-4 rivers like the Colorado. As a Swiftwater Rescue Instructor for the past 25 years, I also truly believe that for a fit person, it is one of, if not the, safest ways to enjoy the river. The riverboards have 160 pounds of flotation, and there is no gear! Only you, your friends, and the river. With a full wetsuit, helmet and PFD, the protection is complete.

 

As with any Grand Canyon trip, the stories and friendships will last for a lifetime. Thank you fellow riverboarders for being adventurous enough to take the plunge in a unique and wonderful way!