Best Rafting Books of 2026

The Emerald Mile by Kevin Fedarko is a thrilling true story of the fastest boat ride ever, down the entire length of the Colorado River and through the Grand Canyon, during the legendary flood of 1983. The book recounts the journey of Kenton Grua, who intended to use the flood as a kind of hydraulic sling-shot to nail the all-time record for the fastest boat ever propelled. The author's flowing prose makes you feel like you are lurching along with the characters on wooden boats, beneath cobalt skies, into the frenzied thrashings of the Colorado river. Overall, The Emerald Mile is an engrossing meditation on the eternal struggle between man and nature and is a must-read for adventure lovers.

Lonely Planet Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks 6 (National Parks Guide) is a comprehensive guidebook that provides up-to-date information on what to see, where to eat, and what hidden gems to explore in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. The book is user-friendly and offers insider tips to help travelers save time and money while avoiding crowds and trouble spots. The guidebook also includes contextual insights on the history, geology, wildlife, and conservation of the parks. With over 45 full-color trail and park maps, this guidebook is perfect for both exploring top sights and taking roads less traveled.

Lonely Planet's Zion & Bryce Canyon National Parks 5 (National Parks Guide) is an excellent travel companion for anyone planning a trip to these US national parks. The guidebook offers up-to-date information on what to see and skip, insider tips to save time and money, and user-friendly highlights and itineraries tailored to personal needs and interests. With over 60 full-color trail and park maps and contextual insights on history, geology, wildlife, and conservation, this guidebook offers a richer and more rewarding travel experience. Overall, Lonely Planet's Zion & Bryce Canyon National Parks is a must-have for any traveler looking to explore these beautiful national parks.

Lonely Planet Banff, Jasper and Glacier National Parks 6 (National Parks Guide) is an essential travel guide for exploring the Canadian national parks. With up-to-date information, insider tips, and user-friendly itineraries, this guidebook helps travelers tailor their trips to their personal interests and needs. The book covers various topics, including history, geology, wildlife, and conservation, and provides honest reviews for all budgets. With over 52 full-color trail and park maps and images throughout, it is a comprehensive guide for exploring top sights and taking roads less traveled.

Fodor's The Complete Guide to Alaska Cruises is the ultimate travel guidebook for anyone planning a cruise to Alaska. This comprehensive guide is packed with expert recommendations, detailed reviews of all the cruise lines and their ships, and more than 22 maps to help you navigate the area confidently. The guide also includes beautiful color photos, trip-planning tools, and practical tips on everything from when to go to saving time and money. The book's historical and cultural insights provide rich context on the local people, politics, art, architecture, cuisine, music, geography, and more. Overall, this guide is an excellent resource for anyone planning a cruise to Alaska.

Fodor's Arizona & the Grand Canyon (Full-color Travel Guide) is an ultimate guidebook for those who want to explore Arizona and its natural wonders. The book is filled with maps, recommendations, and practical tips to help travelers plan their itinerary effectively. It also provides insights into the local art, architecture, cuisine, and culture. The book's "Best Of" features highlight the top attractions, including the best hikes, day trips, and places to eat and drink. The book is written by local experts and is up-to-date with the latest information. Overall, Fodor's Arizona & the Grand Canyon is an excellent resource for travelers who want to experience the best of Arizona.

"1,000 Places to See in the United States and Canada Before You Die" is an extensive travel guide covering North America's most compelling and unforgettable places. The book includes full-color photographs and over 1,000 entries, featuring everything from pristine beaches and national parks to world-class museums and scenic byways. The author, Patricia Schultz, provides readers with essential information about each location, including how and when to visit. The guide also includes new attractions such as Miami's Pérez Art Museum and Manhattan's High Line, making it a must-have for any traveler exploring North America. Overall, this book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to discover the beauty and diversity of the United States and Canada."

Epic Journeys: 245 Life-Changing Adventures is a comprehensive guide that offers trips of a lifetime for explorers and adrenaline junkies alike. This beautiful book reveals over 225 of the planet's best destinations for hikers, skiers, divers, rafters, and more, accompanied by more than 300 vivid photographs. Combining adventure with cultural experiences, this one-of-a-kind collection will lead you to new heights of exploration. This National Geographic coffee table book is perfect for adventurers and makes an excellent gift. Overall, Epic Journeys is an awe-inspiring guide that showcases the wild beauty of the natural world and offers unforgettable experiences for those willing to step out of their comfort zones.

The Raft, a children's multigenerational family life book by Jim LaMarche, takes readers on a magical summer adventure in the Wisconsin woods. Nicky, the protagonist, finds a raft covered with drawings of wild animals, which brings him and his grandmother closer together and sparks his imagination. The exquisitely rendered pastel drawings create a bewitching glow, and the figures of the animals are lively and direct. The book is an artistic triumph that celebrates the natural world and the joys of exploring one's own talents. This HarperTrophy book is perfect for children aged six and up.

Lonely Planet’s Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks 6 (National Parks Guide) is the ultimate travel companion for those planning a trip to these stunning US national parks. The guidebook provides practical advice on what to see and skip, insider tips to avoid crowds, and highlights for all budgets. It also includes contextual insights on the history, geology, wildlife, and conservation of the parks. With over 40 full-color trail and park maps and images throughout, it's perfect for both exploring top sights and taking roads less traveled. Overall, this comprehensive guidebook is a must-have for anyone planning a trip to these breathtaking national parks.