We are a family of 5 (3 kids age 15 to 20, mom, dad) who are writing this review together because the Cataract Canyon trip we just took with Sheri Griffiths was so spectacular,,, we really wanted to get this review right.
First, a word about our guides, Zhanna and Addy. We hit the jackpot! They were funny (even our 15 year old laughed at their jokes), smart (they knew more about the insects, geology, history of the area than our 18 year old, which never happens), and creative problem-solvers (Addy is an actual boat mechanic, which came in handy when the motor wouldn't start - she was able to diagnose that the choke was sticking open, and fix it). Zhanna and Addy were constantly checking in with us to make sure we were hydrated, fed, reapplying sunscreen, staying cool, etc. Also, they worked incredibly hard, always putting our needs first, making sure we were safe/happy at all times. It was incredible to watch the two of them working like a well-oiled machine loading the boat in the morning, cooking dinner at night, and navigating the rapids with deep boating technical expertise. We had insane wind ("Uncle Gusty" on the river), but Addy and Zhanna stayed positive the whole time, even though it made everything harder for them -- picture (1) an epic battle to get the sun shield up in 50 mph winds because they were determined to protect our skin and (2) navigating rapids safely despite the gusts trying their hardest to throw us into the rocks. We also appreciated how they adapted over time as they got to know us and picked different hikes based on our interests. They took us to see more Ancestral Puebloan granaries when they saw how much we loved learning about the history from them - their respect for Native American history and culture was inspiring. Zhanna is a serious athlete who taught us how to catch the eddies while swimming (zooming) in circles around Airplane Eddy.
Next, a word about the company. We picked Sheri Griffiths because they offered the length of trip we needed (2 nights, 3 days). Again, we hit the jackpot. Everything was impressively orchestrated. The orientation the night before was super helpful (would recommend your whole group attend). After reviewing everything from the trip plan to how to close a dry bag, Zhanna took drink orders and hit the grocery store later that night to buy us our favorite brand of seltzers. These personal touches throughout made all the difference! The food was delicious, plentiful, and constant. When we got off the boat, our driver was there watiing for us, and was another friendly guy who knew a ton about the area, and had lots of snacks and drinks for us.
Finally, a word about the area. We were mesmerized by the beauty, the solitude, and the care with which everyone treated both the environment and eachother. We checked in with every boat we encountered to make sure all was well. We even grabbed a guide-friend of Addy's for a while to hitch a ride (he was on an 8-day solo trip, rowing the whole way).
So, needless to say we are HUGE fans of Sheri Griffith, and even more so Zhanna and Addy. Thank you all for three days that we will never forget. You have set a high bar for any guided trips we take in the future! read more