Paddling Black Canyon: SUP, a Secret Cave, and a Riverside History Lesson
A half-day SUP trip through Black Canyon to swim, explore a gauger’s cottage and drift into Emerald Cave
The river arrives before you do—slow, insistent, and carrying the canyon’s cool shade like a promise. At Willow Beach, the Colorado narrows, darkens and tucks itself between basalt walls that rise like ancient teeth. On a good morning the water’s surface is glass; first strokes feather out across an emerald corridor that seems to hum with history. You push off on a stable stand-up board, guided by a coach who reads wind and current the way a musician reads a score. For the next half-day, the river is your clock, the canyon your classroom, and Emerald Cave the reward.
Trail Wisdom
Start Early or Late
Avoid midday heat—mornings and late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and calmer winds.
Bring a Dry Bag
Protect phone, camera and layers in a waterproof bag clipped to your board.
Wear Quick-Dry Footwear
Expect beach exits and a short rocky hike—trail sandals or light shoes with grip work best.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect skin without harming aquatic life or vegetation in the river.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Emerald Cave’s shaded inner cove—best visited mid-morning for green water color
- •Short shore excursion to the historic river gauger’s house for hands-on local history
Wildlife
Bald Eagle, Desert Bighorn Sheep
Conservation Note
This stretch of river supports sensitive shoreline habitats; stick to designated landing areas, pack out all trash, and avoid disturbing nesting birds and shoreline plants.
The gauger’s homes in Black Canyon were part of early 20th-century efforts to record river flows—work that predated and informed large dam projects in the Colorado Basin.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: mild temperatures, wildlife viewing, comfortable paddling
Challenges: variable winds, possible higher flows depending on dam releases
Spring is the sweet spot for pleasant air temps, active wildlife and comfortable paddling; bring layers for cool mornings.
summer
Best for: long daylight, swimming, family outings
Challenges: extreme heat, strong afternoon winds
Summer offers swim-ready water but brings heat—plan early launches and pack plenty of water and shade.
fall
Best for: stable weather, fewer crowds, clear light for photography
Challenges: cooler mornings, shorter daylight
Fall provides stable paddling conditions and crisp light; middays are ideal for beach stops and cave swims.
winter
Best for: crisp canyon light, quiet beaches, cool paddling
Challenges: cold mornings, chilly water, reduced swim comfort
Winters are quiet and clear—dress warmly in layers and bring neoprene or a wetsuit if you plan to swim.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Dry BagEssential
Keeps electronics and layers dry during paddling and beach stops.
Hydration Reservoir or BottleEssential
You’ll be in desert conditions—bring at least 1–2 liters per person for the half-day.
Quick-Dry Trail SandalsEssential
Provide traction for beach exits and the short hike to the gauger’s house.
Light Wind Shell or Layer
Useful for cool canyon breeze in mornings or if wind picks up.
Common Questions
Do I need previous SUP experience to join?
No—this tour includes guided instruction for all levels; beginners receive technique coaching and safety briefing before launch.
How far do we paddle and how strenuous is it?
The route covers about 5.5 miles round-trip; conditions are mostly flatwater with gentle current—moderate exertion is typical, with coaching to pace energy.
Is swimming allowed at Emerald Cave?
Yes—there is a beach and swim stop; water can be cool, so bring a swimsuit or quick-dry clothing and a towel.
What should I wear and bring?
Quick-dry clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, water, closed-toe or strap-on sandals, and a dry bag for valuables are recommended.
Are there age or weight restrictions?
Policies vary by operator—check with the booking provider for minimum age, maximum weight limits or child safety gear; many welcome families with children who can swim.
Do I need permits or park passes?
There may be day-use fees for Lake Mead National Recreation Area facilities; the tour operator typically handles launch permissions—confirm any required fees when booking.
What to Pack
Water (1–2L) for hydration, dry bag for electronics, quick-dry shoes for hikes and shore exits, reef-safe sunscreen to protect skin and river life
Did You Know
Black Canyon’s dark volcanic walls are primarily basalt and andesite, remnants of ancient lava flows that the Colorado River has carved through over millions of years.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Launch from Willow Beach Marina—arrive 30 minutes early; 2) Drive time from Las Vegas ~75–90 minutes; 3) Cell service is spotty in the canyon—download emergency contacts and maps; 4) Bring cash or card for marina day-use fees if applicable.
Local Flavor
After the trip, grab a casual meal at the Willow Beach Marina café or drive to Laughlin for riverside dining and local breweries; the region pairs simple pub fare with classic Southwestern flavors—think grilled fish, tacos and cold beer.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS); Driving distance: ~75–90 minutes from Las Vegas; Trailhead/Launch: Willow Beach Marina; Cell service: limited in the canyon; Permits/Passes: possible Lake Mead National Recreation Area day-use fees—confirm with operator.
Sustainability Note
Pack out all trash, use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid disturbing shoreline vegetation and nesting birds, and follow operator guidance for low-impact landings to protect fragile river habitats.