The summer season is the perfect time for exploring

the outdoors and getting back in touch with nature.

Whether you prefer a relaxing day of fly fishing or the

extreme challenge of river rafting, the United States

offers some of the most beautiful and exciting rivers in

the world. From the Colorado River to the Potomac,

each one offers something unique for the whole family

to enjoy. Consider these seven must-see rivers before

planning your next vacation.

The Merced is a free-flowing river in

California that typically runs through

springtime all the way through mid-

summer. Its volume is dependent on

the previous winter’s snowpack,

offering visitors the opportunity for

whitewater rafting and paddle

boating during the peak season.

Paddlers can choose from a wide

range of levels, from small dips for

beginners to intense adventures for

the more advanced. Take in plenty

of scenery along the way with a wide

variety of colorful plant life blooming

on the surrounding riverbanks.

Running over 500 miles long,

the Colorado River is one of the

most beloved rivers in America

as it runs along Lake Mead,

Lake Mojave, Lake Havasu, and

even through the Grand

Canyon. Travelers around the

world enjoy Grand Canyon tours

from the perspective of the river

for a stunning view quite unlike

any other, including majestic red

rock formations that travel over

6,000 feet from top to bottom.

Located in Wisconsin, the St. Croix

River is a popular choice for scenic

paddling in the upper Midwestern

region of the United States. This

river is protected by the National

Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of

1968, guaranteeing plenty of

natural beauty, wildlife, and bird

life. St. Croix is home to bears,

deer, otters, beavers, eagles,

finches, swans, and more.

Breathtaking maple, oak, and

aspen trees are just some of the

many trees that line the banks

along this can’t-miss riverway.

The Yellowstone River is a popular

choice for fishing fans, offering

plenty of rainbow trout, brown trout,

and Yellowstone cutthroat trout.

Over 670 miles long, the scenery

changes dramatically as it flows

through Wyoming, Montana, and

North Dakota. Visitors can enjoy

stunning views of large canyons and

boulders as well as scenic, fertile

farming lands. This peaceful

waterway is also big for river floats,

perfect for those who simply want to

relax and enjoy the view.

The Potomac is incredibly rich

in history, dubbed “The

Nation’s River” by America’s

first president, George

Washington, and was also the

site for many battles fought

throughout the Civil War. This

millions-year-old river

provides thrill seekers with

plenty of extreme whitewater

kayaking adventures every

summer, and is also a major

destination for river sailing as

well as sailboat racing.

At 126 miles long, the Animas River

flows through Colorado’s magnificent

San Juan Mountains. Here, there’s a

little something for everyone, including

whitewater rafting, kayaking, and fly

fishing. Take in some history and see

the river in a different way by catching a

ride along the Durango and Silverton

Narrow Gauge Railroad.

Located primarily in the Pacific Northwest, the Columbia River runs over 260,000 square

miles. This river has played a major part in U.S. industry, used for fur trading and

steamboat transportation in the 1800s, and remains a major source for hydroelectric

power in surrounding regions to this very day. One major highlight along the river’s route is

Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge, which provides dazzling views and exquisite waterfalls.

Scenic Airlines is one of the largest, most

experienced aerial tour operators in the world, with

over 10 million satisfied travelers. Experience an

unforgettable adventure with unique and

customizable Grand Canyon air tours, river tours,

and much more across the Southwest’s most

alluring state parks and natural wonders.

To get more information or to book your next trip,

visit http://www.scenic.com/ or call 1-800-634-6801.