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Grand Canyon river permit

GC Rafting Gear Checklist

What to carry on GC Rafting, and why. 1 item is written into the permit rules and 10 more are worth the pack space.

11Total Items
1Required
10To bring

What to bring on GC Rafting

Specific to this permit, not a generic camping list. One item is written into the permit rules, and every one of those carries the rule it comes from.

  • Required

    A human waste carry-out system with park-approved washable, reusable containers

    Permit rule: “A human waste carry-out system accompanies all trips, using washable, reusable containers approved by Grand Canyon National Park”

  • Bring

    Fire pan and a container for charcoal ash

  • Bring

    Rafts, dories or kayaks rated for sustained Class IV whitewater

  • Bring

    Water treatment for the full group for the full trip length

  • Bring

    Satellite communication device

  • Bring

    Photo identification for every trip member at the Lees Ferry checkout

  • Bring

    Full boat repair kit and spare oars

  • Bring

    Wag-bag style systems for hiking away from camp

  • Bring

    Dry boxes for the three weeks of food a long trip needs

  • Bring

    Shade structure

    summer at river level is brutal

  • Bring

    A spare groover setup

    because the primary one failing ends trips

16 people can go on one permit. Split this list between them so nobody carries two stoves.

Build a shared list

General backcountry gear

Kit we recommend for backcountry trips in general. This is not a checklist specific to GC Rafting — the Colorado Plateau Rivers rules for this permit are above.

🎒
Recommended
Wild Ideas

Bearikade Weekender

Ultralight carbon fiber bear canister. IGBC certified.

1 lb 15 ozultralightcarbon-fiber
$325
🎒
Recommended
Katadyn

BeFree 1L

Ultralight collapsible filter system.

2 ozultralightfast-flow
$44.95
🎒
Recommended
BearVault

BV500 Bear Vault

The most popular bear canister for Sierra backpacking. Fits 7 days of food.

2 lbs 9 oz7-day capacityapproved
$89.95
🎒
Recommended
Black Diamond

Distance Carbon Z

Lightweight folding carbon poles.

1 lb 1 ozcarbonfolding
$169.95
🎒
Recommended
Sawyer

Sawyer Squeeze

The most popular water filter for backpacking.

3 ozpopularreliable
$37.95

Gear Tips for GC Rafting

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Weigh your pack before you go. A lighter pack makes for a happier hike.
  • •Rent expensive gear if you are trying a new activity for the first time.
  • •Test all new gear at home before hitting the trail.
  • •Check current regulations as some items may be required seasonally.

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