About the Expedition

While photography is a focal point, this expedition is open to all who appreciate nature, beauty, and adventure. We’ll explore photography at every level—capturing sunrises, glowing canyon walls, the swirl of stars, fascinating geology, and the stories we write along the way. Our partners at Arizona Raft Adventures (AZRA) are the finest in the business. Their expert boatmen handle the rowing, the cooking (unless you’d like to join in), and the camaraderie that defines each evening on the riverbank. Their care and humor are a big part of what makes this trip unforgettable.

A 10% gratuity for our guides is already included in the trip cost, ensuring they know how much they’re valued.

Why This Trip Is Special

We’ll keep our group intentionally smaller than AZRA’s 24-person capacity for more room—on the rafts, in camp, on the trails, and in conversation. By journey’s end, we’ll all be good friends. NO MOTORBOATS! Do you really want to sit next to a gas motor for hours a day? Absolutely not. Plus, there’s a magic to going the speed of the river, moving as fast as the water can flow and the guides can row.

There’s a rhythm to river life—waking with the sun, hiking through redrock narrows, sharing laughter and meals, and letting go of the noise of the world above. Disconnecting from that world allows us to reconnect—with nature, with each other, and with ourselves.

The Grand Canyon holds a kind of magic that words rarely capture. We can’t wait to share that with you.

A 15 Day Raft Trip Down the Colorado River:

A completely unique trip, unmatched, unsurpassed

Experience the full 226 miles, 5 Rafts, 1 Dorie, NO MOTORBOATS 🥳

I’m thrilled to invite you on an extraordinary 15-day Grand Canyon Rafting Photo Expedition—a voyage through one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. Rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon is more than a journey—it’s a renewal of spirit. For fifteen days, we’ll leave behind the world of headlines, tweets, screens, and bad news, trading it all for canyon light, star-filled nights, fine company, and the timeless rhythm of the river.

A World-Class Team: Ralph Lee Hopkins & Jeff Litton

This year, I’m especially delighted to share that National Geographic photographer Ralph Lee Hopkins—the man who pioneered these Grand Canyon photo expeditions—will also be joining me as co-host.

Ralph’s legacy runs deep: decades exploring the world for National Geographic, leading photography workshops from the Arctic to the Galápagos, and capturing stories that celebrate wild places. I began working alongside him more than 15 years ago, learning the craft of river photography under his mentorship. To now lead this journey together is both an honor and a full-circle moment.

As for me, Jeff Litton, I’ve been working on the National Geographic Expedition ships with Lindblad Expeditions for 17 years, working as a Photography Instructor, naturalist, hiking guide, and undersea specialist. My degree from Brooks Institute of Photography gave me a well-rounded background in film & photography, and I built on that with years of traveling the World for the sake of teaching photography and teaching travelers about the incredible flora and fauna of our wild world. I also work as a filmmaker, and you may have seen my work on The National Geographic Channel, in National Geographic magazine, or many other places.

With Ralph and me guiding, you’ll gain insight from two photographers who have spent their lives chasing light—from canyon sunsets to polar ice. Whether you’re shooting with a phone, a pro camera, or simply your eyes and heart, you’ll return home with new ways of seeing the world.

What to Expect

Hiking:
We’ll explore side canyons and hidden oases most days. Some hikes are gentle; others are more adventurous—but all reveal the magic of the Canyon. And most importantly, with this many guides, we can always cater the hikes to suit the hikers, so shorter hikes are always a great option. Let me say it this way, you can always hike as far as you want. No hikes are mandatory, shorter versions of hikes are always great too, so this should not be of concern. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me and I’ll call or email you asap.

Camping:
Each afternoon we’ll pull into camp along the river’s edge. While our guides prepare dinner, you can set up your tent—or sleep under the stars. There’s time to swim, wander, relax, or share stories as twilight fades to starlight.

Comfort:
AZRA provides comfortable sleeping gear, including a 2” foam pad (you’re welcome to bring an inflatable pad for extra plushness). Dietary preferences are easily accommodated, and we’ll hold a detailed Zoom prep call to ensure everyone’s ready.

Photography & Power:
Small solar panels keep camera batteries topped off throughout the journey. Compact tripods are encouraged. Large electronics—laptops, CPAPs, or other plug-in devices—are best left behind. This is your rare chance to unplug and reconnect.

Expedition Details:

Sunday, Sept 13, 2026:  Orientation, 7 p.m., Flagstaff, AZ

Monday, Sept 14, 2026: Launch on the Colorado River at Lee’s Ferry
Monday, Sept 28, 2026: Final day on the river

Cost: $8,000 per person
Includes all meals, park fees, 15 days on the river, and a 10% guide gratuity.

Payment Schedule:

Dec 2025: $2,376.40 paid to me (Venmo, PayPal, Zelle, or check, includes AZRA’s 15% deposit & 10% tips for guides)

Mar 18, 2026: $5,623.60 due directly to AZRAAll payments are non-refundable. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.If it speaks to you, please reach out soon to reserve your place.

Let’s cast off into something wild, beautiful, and unforgettable—
a rare chance to explore one of the world’s great natural wonders with two photographers who’ve spent their lives chasing light and beauty.

With warm regards,
Jeff Litton
In partnership with Ralph Lee Hopkins