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Paddle under the Hoover Dam and soak in hidden hot springs on this full-day kayak and hike adventure near Las Vegas. Discover breathtaking canyon views and river wildlife on a unique Nevada outdoor experience.
Paddle under the Hoover Dam and soak in hidden hot springs on this full-day kayak and hike adventure near Las Vegas. Discover breathtaking canyon views and river wildlife on a unique Nevada outdoor experience.
Book with Evolution Expeditions
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Evolution Expeditions · Boulder City, Nevada
Experience one of Nevada’s most unique outdoor adventures with the Kayak Hoover Dam & Hot Springs Hike by Evolution Expeditions. This full-day tour takes you on an incredible 12-mile paddle starting at the base of the iconic Hoover Dam, giving you an unparalleled fish-eye view of this massive engineering marvel. You'll kayak down the stunning Colorado River through the Black Canyon, encountering geothermal hot springs, hidden sauna caves, and emerald-green waters along the way. The hike portions provide mild yet refreshing exploration through slot canyons on both the Nevada and Arizona shorelines. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate chances to spot desert bighorn sheep, falcons, and bald eagles in their natural habitat. Whether you are a beginner or advanced paddler, this tour offers a challenging but rewarding experience, supported by professional guides and top-quality gear. Permits are required and included, but availability is limited, so booking in advance is essential. Shuttle service is available from select Las Vegas hotels, or you can self-drive and meet at the Hoover Dam Lodge. With catered lunch, complimentary beverages, and a knowledgeable guide, this adventure is perfect for outdoor lovers seeking a memorable day on water and land just minutes from the Las Vegas Strip.
challenging.
7 hours.
Participants should have good endurance and strength for a full day of kayaking and hiking, as the route covers 12 miles requiring constant paddling and moderate hiking.
Beginners are welcome as guides provide instruction, but participants should be physically prepared for a challenging 12-mile paddle.
Shuttle from select Las Vegas hotels is available subject to minimum participants; self-driving to the Hoover Dam Lodge is also an option.
Tours may be canceled for safety reasons due to extreme weather or river conditions; guests will be notified promptly.
Yes, a catered lunch along with bottled water, juice, and snacks are included.
Expect to see desert bighorn sheep, coyotes, falcons, bald eagles, and various migratory waterfowl.
Yes, permits are required and included in your tour price, but they sell out quickly so early booking is advised.
The Hoover Dam, completed in the 1930s, revolutionized water management and electricity generation in the Southwest; water gauging sites from 1921 can still be observed along the river.
Strict permit limits and Leave No Trace principles help protect the Black Canyon's fragile ecosystem and historical sites during river tours.
Evolution Expeditions is a Boulder City, Nevada outfitter specializing in kayak tours on Lake Mead and the Colorado River through Black Canyon. The company offers a variety of shuttle and self-drive formats, including express paddles, deluxe excursions, sunset trips, and combined kayak-and-hike itineraries that start near Hoover Dam. Trips visit signature sites such as Emerald Cave, volcanic canyon walls, slot canyons, and geothermal hot springs. Many itineraries include wildlife viewing—reports note sightings of desert bighorn sheep and bald eagles—and stops at historical sites dating to the 1920s. Several tours provide a catered lunch or dinner on secluded beaches, plus opportunities to swim and enjoy campfire time during sunset paddles. Guided options are led by knowledgeable guides who provide route orientation, safety briefings, and local insight. Self-drive and shuttle choices allow flexibility for visitors coming from Boulder City, Las Vegas, or the Lake Mead recreational area. Tour descriptions clearly state logistics, what to bring, and the skill level recommended; many trips are presented as suitable for all skill levels, from first-time paddlers to experienced kayakers. Evolution Expeditions focuses on accessible access to Black Canyon and Lake Mead experiences that combine natural scenery, local history, and outdoor recreation. Trip options accommodate different preferences for launch style and duration while highlighting the Hoover Dam, Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge views, and the unique Emerald Cave destination.
Book with Evolution Expeditions