Two Hundred and Fivemile Rapids
Arizona • Grand Canyon National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Two Hundred and Fivemile Rapids
Two Hundred and Fivemile Rapids is a dramatic stretch of whitewater on the Colorado River carved into the heart of the Grand Canyon. Rather than a vertical drop, these rapids are produced where the river funnels and tumbles over rocky, constricted channels, creating powerful waves and boils that draw experienced rafters and kayakers looking for a memorable run. The setting is classic Grand Canyon: sheer canyon walls, exposed rock layers, and river scenery that changes with every boat-length. The rapids lie along the Colorado River within Grand Canyon National Park and on lands associated with the Hualapai Indian Reservation (land owner: DESG; land unit/manager: Hualapai Tribe). Because Two Hundred and Fivemile is best experienced from the water, most visitors encounter it on commercial or private river trips that scout and run the rapid rather than from a maintained rim viewpoint. For planning purposes, note that the nearest listed campground in the supplied data is at the Mount Logan Wilderness Area, approximately 36.9 km away; overnight access in the immediate canyon is typically via river campsites on multi-day river runs.
The Setting
Two Hundred and Fivemile Rapids sits at 1,483 feet within Grand Canyon National Park, fed by the Colorado Rvr Abv Diamond Creek, in the foothills of Arizona.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
There is no traditional, maintained rim trail that leads directly to Two Hundred and Fivemile Rapids — primary access is by boat on the Colorado River. The rapids are most often reached and viewed as part of multi-day rafting or kayaking trips through the Grand Canyon. Separately, local trail data indicates a 2.4-mile out-and-back route with about 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate in difficulty; this route is commonly used by visitors who approach from nearby shore or low-elevation access points but it does not replace river access for scouting or running the rapids. Surface type, grade, and technical class are not provided in the supplied data, so expect uneven, natural terrain and plan accordingly (sturdy footwear, plenty of water, and awareness that river travel is the standard means of access).
What to Expect
Expect to see a powerful set of rapids surrounded by the stunning rock formations of the Grand Canyon. The area is remote and offers a unique perspective of the canyon's geology and the force of the Colorado River.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Two Hundred and Fivemile Rapids?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
Permit required
A permit is required for private rafting trips on the Colorado River. Guided trips are managed by licensed outfitters who handle permits on behalf of participants.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Two Hundred and Fivemile Rapids?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are typically the best times to visit due to milder temperatures and favorable river conditions, but trips are available year-round.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Watch for flash flood warnings during monsoon season (July through September). Check with Grand Canyon National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
The rapids are extremely powerful and dangerous. Visitors should follow all safety instructions provided by guides or the National Park Service. Be prepared for remote conditions and limited access to emergency services.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 16 miles away
8,190 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 36 years of record
47.30 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Two Hundred and Fivemile Rapids is located within the Grand Canyon National Park and is primarily accessed via rafting trips on the Colorado River. It is not accessible by road or traditional hiking trails.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated areas within Grand Canyon National Park, such as at the South Rim or other river access points, depending on the starting location of your rafting trip.
Elevation
1483 feet above sea level
Coordinates
36.005541° N, -113.342155° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Plan your visit as part of a guided rafting trip or secure a private river permit well in advance. Be prepared for remote conditions and follow all safety guidelines provided by your guide or the National Park Service.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Mount Logan Wilderness Area
22.9 miles away · 0 sites
The 14,650-acre Mount Logan Wilderness Area lies 45 miles south of Colorado City, Arizona, just north of the Grand Canyon in Mohave County. Hiking, camping, scenic vistas, watching wildlife and hunting are some of the prime recreational opportunities found in this wilderness. One example is the Mt. Logan Summit and Hells Hole Overlook.Mt. Logan is an area of interesting volcanic activity. It includes basalt ledges, cinder cones, ponderosa pine forests, pinyon-juniper woodlands, and a large, color
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Peach Springs, Arizona
Pumpkin Spring
Pumpkin Spring emerges as a mineralized thermal feature in the Grand Canyon's depths, located on the Hualapai Indian Reservatio...
Lava Warm Springs
Lava Warm Springs flows at 90°F on the Hualapai Indian Reservation in Mohave County near Peach Springs, emerging 20 degrees war...
Pakoon Springs
Pakoon Springs flows at 86°F in the remote Arizona Strip country, emerging 18 degrees above the 68°F average at 2,300 feet elev...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Peach Springs, Arizona on SoakingSprings.
Explore Arizona springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other notable rapids along the Colorado River, Grand Canyon viewpoints, and hiking trails accessible from the South Rim or North Rim.
Wildlife
Wildlife in the area may include bighorn sheep, birds of prey, and various reptiles. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Cities near Two Hundred and Fivemile Rapids
Nearby Waterfalls
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