Colorado River Kayak Day Trip: 12-Mile Black Canyon Hot Springs & Caves
Paddle 12 miles of the Colorado River through Black Canyon on a full-day guided kayak trip that visits hot springs, secret caves, and quiet beaches. Leave the city behind for a seven-hour journey that mixes geology, wildlife, and hands-on exploration.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a leakproof dry bag
Keep your phone, camera, and an extra layer dry—many cave entrances require scrambling and splash-prone transfers between shore and kayak.
Wear closed-toe water shoes
Stronger grip and toe protection make launching and walking on hot, rocky beaches safer and more comfortable.
Sun protection is non-negotiable
High desert sun plus reflected water increases burn risk—use a wide-brim hat, SPF 30+ sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses.
Pace your hydration
Bottled spring water is provided, but bring an electrolyte option if you sweat heavily—seven hours in dry heat depletes salts.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Emerald Cave mouth—perfect for backlit photos and a cool swim.
- •Small, shaded beaches below Gold Strike that are quiet even on busier days.
Wildlife
- •Bighorn sheep
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Access is controlled by Bureau of Reclamation permits to limit impact; follow Leave No Trace principles and avoid disturbing fragile hot-spring vegetation and nesting birds.
The lower Black Canyon sits below Hoover Dam, whose 1930s construction changed river flow and access; earlier Indigenous and mining-era travel routes shaped the canyon’s human story.
Photographer's Notes
- • From your kayak near Emerald Cave entrance
- • Shoreline at Arizona Hot Springs pool
- • Willow Beach Marina boardwalk for downstream panoramas
What to Bring
Dry bag (10–20L)Essential
Protects electronics and extra clothing during cave visits and beach stops.
Closed-toe water shoesEssential
Provide traction on rocky shores and in shallow, hot-spring areas.
High SPF sunscreen & sun hatEssential
Sun exposure is intense on the river—protect skin and eyes during long stretches of open water.
Light technical layer or windbreaker
Early launches can be cool; wind off the river chills you on shaded stretches.
Common Questions
How long is the trip and how far will we paddle?
The tour is approximately 7 hours and covers about 12 miles of the lower Colorado River through Black Canyon.
Where do we meet and is shuttle service available?
Meet at the Hoover Dam Lodge west parking lot 30 minutes before launch; shuttle pickups from Las Vegas begin about 90 minutes before launch times.
What level of fitness is required?
A moderate level of fitness is required—participants should be able to paddle for sustained periods and perform short hikes over uneven terrain; minimum age is 8.
Are permits and safety equipment included?
Yes—Bureau of Reclamation permits, life jackets, helmets when needed, and all safety equipment are provided by the operator.
Can I choose a single or tandem kayak?
Yes—specify single or tandem preference at booking; availability depends on group composition.
What happens in bad weather or if the trip is canceled?
Trips can be canceled for unsafe conditions or insufficient participants; in such cases you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund according to the operator’s policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7 hours
Location
Boulder City, Nevada
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; comfortable paddling for extended periods and basic scrambling ability for cave access
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