Cell phone service is not, as yet, implemented in the park.
I recommend carrying an aircraft radio because it provides one of several
options which could potentially save a life. I hear from the NPS also that
signal mirrors are as effective as anything, but with both mirrors and
radios you have to actually be within line of sight to use them. Radios
have the advantage of offering a way to actually let paramedics know in
advance of a flight what the situation is.
A really high tech option is a satellite phone -- don't laugh, the NPS is
currently considering sending them with backcountry trail crews. I have no
idea what they rent for, but for ultimate communications capapbility,
they're the top.
BTW, if you do have an emergency on the river, be sure to let every trip
going by know you have a problem. They may see an airplane before you do.
Good luck and have a great trip.
LEN
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