Hoover Dam Kayak Tour: 12-Mile Black Canyon Paddle to Emerald Cave & Hot Springs
Paddle 12 miles downstream from Hoover Dam through Black Canyon to Emerald Cave and natural hot springs on a full-day guided kayak tour. This accessible yet demanding trip blends geological drama, river skills, and desert solitude with shuttle service from Las Vegas.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring water shoes
Expect sandy and rocky beaches plus a short mile-long hike; closed-toe water shoes provide traction and protection—no flip-flops.
Sun protection is critical
Desert sun reflects off canyon walls and water—wide-brim hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and UV sunglasses will keep you comfortable.
Pack a small dry bag
Keep phone, spare layers, and snacks dry—there are photo stops but also swims and splash-over in choppy sections.
Know the permit policy
A National Park permit is required and non-refundable; the operator will arrange it after booking—confirm costs before you pay.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Emerald Cave’s shallow green pool—best photographed at mid-afternoon light
- •Small upstream side coves and thermal seep pockets used by locals for brief warm dips
Wildlife
- •desert bighorn sheep
- •great blue heron
Conservation Note
Permits limit visitor numbers and fees support management—observe leave-no-trace, avoid soaps in hot springs, and pack out all trash to protect fragile desert soils.
Hoover Dam (completed 1936) transformed the Colorado River’s flow and power production; the Black Canyon’s basalt walls were cut and polished by ancient river action long before the dam existed.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the water looking upstream to the dam for scale
- • Entrance to Emerald Cave for saturated green reflections
- • River beach near the hot springs for candid paddler shots
What to Bring
Sturdy water shoesEssential
Protect feet on rocky beaches and provide traction on wet trails.
Quick-dry layers and sun shirtEssential
Light layers keep you comfortable from cool mornings to hot afternoons and protect against sun.
Dry bag (10–20L) or waterproof phone caseEssential
Keeps electronics, wallet, and spare clothes dry during paddling and beach stops.
Wide-brim hat and polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduces glare and protects eyes for long hours on reflective water.
Common Questions
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
No—this tour is suitable for beginners; guides provide instruction and stable, ruddered kayaks, but you should be comfortable doing sustained paddling for several hours.
How fit do I need to be?
Moderate fitness is required—expect 12 miles of paddling and up to 2 miles of hiking over sand and rock; people with serious heart, shoulder, or back issues should not participate.
Is transportation provided from Las Vegas?
Yes—roundtrip shuttle pickup from designated hotels (Mandalay Bay pickup noted) is included; meet-up at Hoover Dam Lodge is also possible.
Are permits included in the price?
No—the National Park permit must be purchased separately (approx. $30/adult, $15 for 16 and under) and the operator will arrange it after booking.
Can children join the tour?
Children may join but there are age and weight considerations; check with the operator and note the activity’s physical demands and permit fees for minors.
What should I eat and drink?
The tour provides a sandwich, fruit, granola bars, and bottled water; bring additional snacks if you have dietary restrictions and carry extra water in hot months.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7–9 hours (including shuttle)
Location
Boulder City, Nevada
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Should be in good aerobic condition with core strength for sustained paddling and ability to hike over uneven sandy and rocky terrain
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