A Grand Adventure: Joel's Journey Down the Colorado River

For a decade, Joel had been dreaming of one thing: securing a coveted non-commercial rafting permit for the Grand Canyon. Often referred to as the holy grail of river permits, this was a chance he had been eagerly awaiting. Finally, on June 25, 2023, his perseverance paid off. Joel, along with eight of his closest friends, embarked on an epic 17-day journey down the Colorado River, traveling 225 miles from Lee’s Ferry, AZ to Diamond Creek, AZ.

This wasn’t just any trip; it was an exploration of one of the Seven Wonders of the World in the most intimate and exhilarating way possible—by raft. As the captain of his own 18-foot raft, Joel navigated the group through over 50 major whitewater rapids, each one more thrilling than the last. With a steady hand on the oars, he powered through epic waves, all the while ensuring that the group’s beer supply remained refreshingly cold.

Reflecting on his adventure, Joel shared, "After being a part of the whitewater community for nearly 20 years, rafting the Grand Canyon was definitely a bucket list item for me to check off! It’s impossible to describe the incredible opportunity to see the beauty of the Grand Canyon from that perspective, including the Native American history that exists down there. A trip like this puts things in perspective and the people you share it with become family. I feel incredibly blessed to have been given this opportunity."

The journey was more than just a thrill ride. It was a chance to connect deeply with the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history of the Grand Canyon. Each day brought new sights and experiences, from awe-inspiring geological formations to ancient petroglyphs that spoke of the canyon's storied past.

For Joel and his friends, this trip was the culmination of years of anticipation and preparation. It was a transformative experience that left them with lasting memories and a profound appreciation for the majesty of the Grand Canyon. As they paddled through the heart of this natural wonder, they forged bonds that would last a lifetime, united by the shared adventure and the sheer grandeur of the landscape around them.

In Joel’s words, “A trip like this puts things in perspective, and the people you share it with become family.” It was indeed a grand adventure, one that Joel will cherish forever.