If I wanted to hike into and out of the Grand Canyon to run a stretch of the Colorado River, would I just need a backpacking permit? Would I be able to spend multiple nights on the river? How do I get a backpacking permit, and what do I need to bring?
Thinking of doing a trip myself end of October, so I have researched the procedure.
Go to the GCNP website, download a backcountry camping permit at:
On this permit, there is a box under canyoneering/packrafting. Check the packraft box. Permits can be submitted up to 4 months in advance.
From the reports that I see on the Yahoo canyoneering forum, the NPS river patrol will stop you and check for your permit.
Oh, if you don’t have a copy already, pick up “Grand Canyoneering” by Todd Martin. Although the book is directed toward technical canyoneering, there is much information on pure backpack/packraft trips.