ctfshjohn wrote:a little low on the water in the river. i wonder if it will carry us or will have to paddle and work for it. seems like a good perspective of the valley.........
Don't know. I would try it--you may need to carry a raft over some sand bars. You need someone to shuttle you back. You could go just as far as the "swinging" bridge and ride the shuttle bus back.
I tried it on a rental raft a few years ago. It's very peaceful and relaxing, and you see the valley from a different perspective--away from the road.
It's too late for raft rental as the river is too low.
Here's the official regulations, such as needing a PFD for everyone:
http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/water.htm