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BACK TO NATURE
Get exclusive access to Northern Arizona’s great outdoors BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
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his month marks the 100th anniversary of the National Parks Service, so why not head to the great outdoors in honor of our state’s breathtaking beauty? Arizona’s own Colorado River Discovery, located in Page, is making it possible for you to celebrate in style with Helios, the Colorado River’s first 100 percent electric raft. The culmination of nearly a decade of research and development, Helios produces zero emissions, exponentially reducing waste products that could pollute the environment or disrupt the climate. Plus, it’s also exclusive. While Colorado River Discovery’s traditional half- and full-day trips through the picturesque Glen Canyon Dam allow for up to 18 people per raft, Helios is limited to just eight guests – and can be rented by one party – to give a more personalized custom experience. Formally launching to the public Aug. 19, these eco-friendly, yet fabulous, Helios river trips begin with an exciting ride down the two-mile Glen Canyon SO SCOTTSDALE! |
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Dam access tunnel. With the dam soaring 700 feet above, guests board Helios and begin their journey downstream along one of the most dramatic stretches of river in the U.S. During the journey, an experienced guide will share the area’s story of soaring sandstone cliffs, crystal bluegreen waters, abundant wildlife, native cultures, and will even make a stop to view ancient petroglyphs left by ancestral Puebloan peoples. Looking for a luxe addition to the tour? Colorado River Discovery has also partnered with Grand Canyon Helicopters on a combination tour featuring both the Helios experience as well as a private helicopter and photography tour of the nearby Tower Butte, towering 5,000 feet above sea level. The Helios & Helicopter Experience begins at 11:30 a.m. by reservation only and starts in the sky, whisking guests on a personalized tour past Antelope Canyon, the Navajo Nation and Lake Powell while ascending Tower Butte. The 360-degree panoramic view from Tower Butte is absolutely breathtaking and features natural wonders including Glen Canyon, Lake Powell, Kaiparowits Plateau and both the Grand and the Vermillion cliffs as far as the eye can see. Only accessible by helicopter, this adventure offers incredible memories, spectacular photographs and bragging rights to an exclusive view of the American Southwest and the Navajo Nation. Once complete, guests move on to Colorado River Discovery for lunch at the in-house bistro, followed by the Helios experience. Rates start at $339 per person for the combination tour. Rates for guests wishing to book the entire raft for their party – as well as the helicopter experience – start at $2,700 and can be made by calling Colorado River Discovery at 1.888.522.6644. For more information, visit www.raftthecanyon.com.
| AUGUST 2016
7/22/16 9:18 AM