Below the Wall: A Calm-Water Float Through Black Canyon
A family-friendly, calm-water float that slides through geology, history, and desert wildlife—no paddling required.
Dawn finds Hoover Dam in silhouette, a dark ribcage holding back the pale blue of Lake Mead. Below it, the Colorado River exhales a cool breath—52-degree tailwater sliding from the penstocks—while the canyon’s volcanic walls blink awake, ember-red in the first light. The current nudges your raft forward, steady and sure, as if the river is impatient to tell its story.
Trail Wisdom
Dress for cool water and hot sun
The river stays near 52–55°F year-round. Wear quick-dry layers, a light wind shell, and UPF sun protection.
Footwear that gets wet
Closed-toe water shoes or sandals with heel straps make shoreline stops safer on slick, rocky edges.
Hydrate early, hydrate often
Even on the water, desert air dehydrates fast. Sip steadily and carry a full bottle in addition to the provided water.
Mind the wind
Afternoon gusts can funnel through the canyon. Secure hats with a strap and keep small items in a zipped pocket or dry bag.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail near Boulder City for big lake views
- •Willow Beach National Fish Hatchery boardwalk for a quick, quiet stroll
Wildlife
Desert bighorn sheep, Osprey
Conservation Note
Black Canyon is part of a designated National Water Trail—pack out all trash, avoid trampling delicate shoreline vegetation, and give wildlife space, especially lambing bighorn in spring.
Hoover Dam was constructed from 1931–1936, a New Deal project that powered the Southwest and created Lake Mead; Boulder City was built to house the workforce.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temperatures, Wildflower blooms
Challenges: Windy afternoons, Cool water chills when wet
Pleasant air temps and bright, clear light make spring a sweet spot for families and photographers.
summer
Best for: Early starts, Wildlife at first light
Challenges: Extreme heat, Reflective glare off water and rock
Go early, cover up, and lean on the river’s cool air to offset desert heat.
fall
Best for: Stable weather, Soft golden light
Challenges: Shortening days, Occasional wind shifts
Warm days and crisp mornings create comfortable conditions with excellent visibility.
winter
Best for: Crowd-free floats, Crystal-clear air
Challenges: Chilly winds, Cold spray on the raft
Bundle up; tailwater temperatures and shaded canyon walls make winter feel colder than the forecast.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
UPF Long-Sleeve Sun ShirtEssential
High, reflective sun off the river and canyon walls makes full-coverage sun protection a must.
Lightweight Wind ShellEssential
Cuts the chill from 52–55°F tailwater and canyon gusts without adding bulk.
Closed-Toe Water ShoesEssential
Grippy soles protect feet on slick rocks during the shoreline stop.
Small Dry Bag (5–10L)
Keeps cameras, phones, and extra layers dry from splash and spray.
Common Questions
Do I need to paddle on this trip?
No. The rafts are motor-assisted and navigate calm water, making this suitable for all ages and abilities.
How cold is the water below Hoover Dam?
The Colorado River here is released from deep in Lake Mead and typically stays around 52–55°F year-round.
Is lunch included?
Yes. A box lunch (turkey wrap, chips, fruit cup, cookie, and water) is provided. Request dietary alternatives at booking when available.
What about transportation from Las Vegas?
Round-trip hotel transportation is available for an additional $69, with check-in at Lake Mead RV Village before launch.
Is there an entrance fee?
Lake Mead National Recreation Area charges a $15 entrance fee per vehicle, waived for holders of National Park Passes; guests under 16 are not charged.
Can I swim during the tour?
You’ll stop along the shore to wade or splash, but the water is very cold and full swimming is not recommended.
What to Pack
UPF sun shirt and brimmed hat for high-reflective sun; closed-toe water shoes for slick shoreline footing; lightweight wind shell to cut the cold tailwater breeze; small dry bag to protect phones, cameras, and extra layers.
Did You Know
The Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, completed in 2010, is the highest concrete arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere and spans 1,060 feet across Black Canyon.
Quick Travel Tips
Book the earliest departure for cooler temps and softer light; Bring your National Park Pass to waive the entrance fee; Expect limited cell service in Black Canyon—download confirmations ahead of time; Plan a Boulder City lunch stop post-tour to avoid peak Las Vegas traffic.
Local Flavor
Post-float, head to Boulder City’s Boulder Dam Brewing Co. for a desert-cold IPA and fish tacos, or grab a diner classic at The Coffee Cup Café. Stroll Old Town’s galleries, then swing by Hemenway Park—local bighorn sheep often graze the grass at dusk.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Harry Reid International (LAS), ~30–45 minutes to Boulder City. Check-in: Lake Mead RV Village, 268 Lakeshore Rd, Boulder City, NV. Drive time: ~15 minutes from Boulder City to launch. Cell service: Spotty to none in the canyon. Fees: Lake Mead NRA entrance fee ($15) unless you have a National Park Pass; shuttle from Las Vegas available for +$69.
Sustainability Note
This corridor is part of the Black Canyon National Water Trail—pack out all trash, use refillable bottles, and keep a respectful distance from nesting birds and shoreline habitats.
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