Black Canyon and Hoover Dam 2-Day Kayak Camping Adventure

Duration2 days

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish

Group sizeUp to 20 travelers

Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Fully immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Black Canyon with a two-day kayak adventure beneath Hoover Dam—sleeping out under the stars along the Colorado River for an experience day-trippers simply can’t match. Paddle crystal-clear waters by day, unwind at your riverside campsite at night, and let expert guides handle meals, gear, and all the logistics so you can simply show up and soak in the adventure. Two days of exploration, wildlife, and stargazing make this trip the ultimate outdoor escape from Las Vegas.

What's included

Lunch
Dinner
Air-conditioned vehicle
Breakfast
NPS Launch Permit
Kayaks and all camping equipment included.

Gratuity not included

What to expect

Day 1: Hoover Dam Launch to campsite

Colorado River
Pass by

Experience the unique perspective of the Colorado River at the foot of the massive Hoover Dam. After descending nearly 1100 feet into Black Canyon, you'll launch onto the tranquil waters, surrounded by the towering concrete structure and the rugged canyon walls.
Mike O'Callaghan - Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge
Pass by

Gain an awe-inspiring view of the iconic Hoover Dam as seen from the Colorado River below. Marvel at the sheer scale and engineering of this monumental landmark, looking up at its impressive curved face from a rarely seen vantage point within the dramatic Black Canyon.
Gold Strike Canyon Hot Springs
1h

First stop will be Sauna Cave, where we will explore a natural steam-bath. Then move onto Gold Strike where numerous hot springs are hidden far into the reaches of the canyon.
Arizona Hot Springs
5h

Back at the kayaks, you'll paddle downriver toward Lone Palm Canyon, past waterfalls, and arrive at Boyscout Canyon. Explore the narrow slot canyons in search of the perfect hot spring. When you find it, you can enjoy yourself, knowing that your campsite is just downriver.

A short paddle brings us to our camp for the evening, where our accommodations for the evening include a starry night sky, and the smell of a campfire. Enjoy a hearty dinner and good conversation, as the sounds of the river bubble gently in the background. After dinner, enjoy a long soak in a quiet hot spring before crawling into your warm sleeping bag for the evening.
Black Canyon City
8h

The first day will be full of kayaking and hiking, and you will have plenty of time to roam free. The night will be spent enjoying the hot springs by moonlight, as the campfire crackles in the dark.

Spend hours relaxing and soaking in the natural hot tubs. Paddle into rain caves, and take time to study ancient rock art left by the Mohave tribes who inhabited the area. Many wildlife species call Black Canyon home. You may see Desert Big Horn sheep, bald eagles, coyotes, red-tail hawks, and turkey vultures. Anglers can bring a rod & reel, and try their hand at some world-class striped bass fishing.

Day 2: Campsite to Willow Beach

Arizona Hot Springs
2h · Admission ticket included

Wake up to the smells of hot coffee, and the sounds of birds chirping. Enjoy a healthy breakfast as the sun slowly rises on the steep canyon walls. Morning hiking is optional for those wanting to explore, or you can savor the serenity of the quiet morning while soaking in the hot springs.

Today is filled with kayaking, and as soon as camp is packed up, you'll continue downriver.
3h · Admission ticket included

As we travel down river, Weeping Springs Cove appears, along with a gravity fault, and your guide will explain the historical features of the canyons as you paddle along. Keep your eyes open for Desert Bighorn sheep; you are likely to see a few perched high on the cliffs. Peregrine falcons, eagles, coyotes, foxes, and lizards can also be spotted.

As you approach the historic cableways and catwalk, you will learn about the gauging station and the purpose it served. Kayak into Emerald Cave for a fantastic photo of the shimmering green waters. Take a short break on Emerald Cove and go for a refreshing swim before having lunch on the beach.
Willow Beach Marina
2h · Admission ticket included

Kayak toward the historic homesite, where you can explore the trail to the ruins if time allows. Fantastic views await at the top, so remember to bring your camera! Just a short paddle downriver past the fish hatchery is your final destination, at the Willow Beach marina.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Guest's will be picked up at the designated pick up location.

End point

Guest's will be picked up at the designated pick up location.

Pickup details

We will give our guests a call the day before with a more exact pick up time. If guests do not require a hotel pick up, they can choose to meet us at our shop in Boulder City.

Additional information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Your first days lunch is provided from a local diner. Your options are: Ham, Turkey, PBJ, BLT, or Chef Salad.
Please refer to Viator's cancellation policy.

Cancellation policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Reviews

4.8 (20)