Hoover Dam and Black Canyon Kayak Day Trip: Paddle to Hot Springs, Emerald Cave & Hidden Beaches
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
12 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness needed—able to paddle for multiple hours and lift a kayak on shore; good balance helps for beach exits.
Overview
Paddle from the base of Hoover Dam into Black Canyon on a full-day guided trip that combines flat-water kayaking, natural hot springs, secluded beaches and the Emerald Cave catwalk. All gear, guides, lunch, and Las Vegas transport are included for a put-in that’s as convenient as it is memorable.
Hoover Dam and Black Canyon Kayak Day Trip: Paddle to Hot Springs, Emerald Cave & Hidden Beaches
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You start before dawn, bundled into a shuttle that hums away from the Las Vegas Strip while the bulk of the city sleeps. The road drops—1100 feet according to the guide—carving through sunbaked rock until the concrete face of Hoover Dam rises above you, an engineered wall that pins the Colorado River between Nevada and Arizona. At the Lower Portal, your guide straps a dry bag to a tandem kayak, hands you a paddle, and the river suddenly feels like a choice: accept its calm invitation or stay on shore.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring a government ID
All traveler names must match government-issued IDs and you must carry ID on the day of the tour—your trip won’t be confirmed otherwise.
Sun protection and hydration
Desert sun is intense on the water—use high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and carry extra water; bottled water is provided but bring a refillable bottle.
Wear quick-dry footwear
Expect beach landings and some scrambling; water shoes or sandals with straps make exits and returns easier than flip-flops.
Arrive early and confirm pickup
Hotel pickups begin between 5:30–6:00 a.m.; operator will call the day before—contact them ahead if you plan to meet at the Boulder City shop.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bighorn sheep
- Bald eagle
History
Hoover Dam, completed in 1935, reshaped the Lower Colorado River’s flow and provided water and power that transformed the Southwest; earlier Indigenous and mining histories remain visible in canyon routes.
Conservation
Operators use a permit system and group limits to reduce impact on hot springs and shoreline habitats—pack out all waste and follow guide instructions to protect cultural and natural sites.
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Adventure Hotspots in Las Vegas
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Swimsuit
Useful for soaking in the Arizona Hot Springs and for comfort while paddling.
summer specific
Waterproof sunscreen and lip balm
Protects skin from prolonged sun exposure reflected off the water.
Water shoes with good traction
Enables secure beach landings and scrambling on slippery rocks.
Light wind jacket or rash guard
Blocks wind on early-morning shuttle rides and provides extra sun protection on the river.
spring specific