Hoover Dam Rafting in Black Canyon — Guided Raft Tour & Swim from Las Vegas
Float beneath the Hoover Dam in Black Canyon on a guided raft tour from Las Vegas—hear construction stories, spot bighorn sheep on the cliffs, and take a brisk swim in the 54°F Colorado River. This four-hour trip pairs accessible adventure with close-up engineering and canyon scenery.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress for a 54°F swim
Pack a quick-dry layer and a towel—the river is cold and you’ll want warm clothes for the return ride.
Wear closed-toe water shoes
Rocky shorelines and raft decks are slippery; sandals aren’t recommended.
Bring sun protection
Wide-brim hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses matter—sun reflects off the canyon and water.
Secure valuables
Use a small dry bag for phones and cameras; guides can suggest safe stow spots on the raft.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge for a high, dramatic view of the dam.
- •Hike the nearby Arizona Hot Springs trail off the canyon rim (seasonally accessible) for warm pools and rock formations.
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Osprey
Conservation Note
Water levels in Lake Mead and the Colorado River are sensitive to drought and use—follow guide instructions, pack out trash, and avoid disturbing nesting birds or shoreline vegetation.
Hoover Dam was built between 1931–1936 as a New Deal-era public works project that controlled the Colorado River and created Lake Mead; its construction reshaped the Southwest’s economy and water management.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the raft at the base of the dam
- • Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge overlook
- • Shoreline landing during the snack break
What to Bring
Quick-dry clothingEssential
Dries fast after the swim and layers easily for chilly mornings.
Water shoesEssential
Protects feet on rocky shorelines and improves footing on wet surfaces.
Small dry bagEssential
Keeps phone, wallet, and camera dry during rafting and swimming stops.
Sunscreen & sunglassesEssential
Necessary year-round to guard against reflected sun and UV in the canyon.
Common Questions
Do I need prior rafting experience?
No—this is a guided, family-friendly raft run suitable for first-timers with life jackets and instruction provided.
Is the swim mandatory?
No—the swim is optional; participants can stay aboard the raft if they prefer not to enter the 54°F water.
What is the pickup location and time?
Pickup is at the LINQ Promenade under the High Roller (around 9:30 AM); confirmation will include exact details and timing.
Are restrooms available on the trip?
Restrooms are available at the launch area before boarding; there are no facilities on the raft itself.
What’s included in the price?
The tour includes round-trip transport from Las Vegas, a guided raft, life jacket, bottled water, and a snack pack (bottle of water, chips, apple, cookie in a souvenir backpack).
Can children and seniors join?
Yes—the trip is rated suitable for all ages and fitness levels, though children should be supervised in the water and anyone with mobility concerns should contact the operator in advance.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Boulder City, Nevada
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in average physical condition; able to board a raft and walk on uneven, rocky shorelines
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