Hoover Dam Raft Tour: Black Canyon Rafting, Swim & Las Vegas Pickup
Float beneath the Hoover Dam in Black Canyon on a 4-hour raft tour from Las Vegas. Enjoy expert-guided history, wildlife sightings, and a brisk swim in the 54°F Colorado River.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring water shoes
Slick rocks and raft boarding demand close-toed water shoes that stay on in current.
Layer for temperature swings
Desert mornings are cool; river spray and sun combine to create variable conditions—pack a light fleece and wind shell.
Protect electronics
Use a small dry bag or waterproof case—phone cameras will get the best angles from the raft but are at risk from splashes.
Arrive at LINQ on time
Pickup is centrally located under the High Roller at 9:30 AM; operators leave promptly to meet park timelines.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet coves a short paddle downstream where bighorn tracks are often visible
- •A shoreline viewpoint just beyond the swim stop with layered rock bands and morning light perfect for macro shots
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Peregrine falcon
Conservation Note
The area balances recreation with habitat protection; follow leave-no-trace practices, avoid disturbing wildlife, and use biodegradable sunscreen to reduce river contamination.
Hoover Dam was constructed between 1931 and 1936 and transformed southwestern water and power management; Black Canyon existed long before, its geology shaped by volcanic flows and river incision.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the raft at the base of Hoover Dam
- • Near the swim-stop shoreline where the canyon walls frame the river
- • On the road above the dam for juxtaposed engineering-and-nature shots
What to Bring
Water shoesEssential
Provide traction on wet rocks and make boarding the raft safer.
Light insulating layer (fleece or windbreaker)Essential
Keeps you warm during cool mornings and when wet from river spray.
Sunscreen and sun hatEssential
Essential for long stretches of unshaded shoreline and reflective water exposure.
Small dry bagEssential
Keeps phone, wallet and extra layers dry during rafting and swims.
Common Questions
Is swimming required on the tour?
No — swimming is optional; guides will offer a supervised swim stop but you can stay aboard the raft if you prefer.
How cold is the water?
The river is typically around 54°F (12°C); plan for brisk immersion and dress accordingly.
Where is pickup?
Pickup is at the LINQ Promenade under the High Roller in Las Vegas; operators request arriving at 9:30 AM for an on-time departure.
Are children allowed?
Yes — the tour is family-friendly; life jackets are provided and guides manage group safety for all ages.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The operator lists the tour as wheelchair-accessible; contact them in advance for specific boarding arrangements and assistance needs.
What’s included in the tour?
Round-trip transport, guided raft tour, life jacket, bottled water and snacks (chips, apple, cookie), and a souvenir backpack.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours (includes transport)
Location
Boulder City, Nevada
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels — be able to step on/off a raft and tolerate brief cold-water swims
Ready to Explore Boulder City?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now