easy
2 hours to full day
Basic fitness needed to paddle for extended periods, suitable for beginners to intermediate paddlers
Paddle Gunlock offers kayak and paddleboard adventures at Gunlock Reservoir, a hidden water gem in southwestern Utah’s red rock landscape. From guided eco-tours to flexible rentals, get ready to paddle through a unique desert oasis.
Gunlock, Utah, is a lesser-known pocket of rugged beauty tucked against the red-rock landscapes of the American Southwest. Here, Paddle Gunlock offers an immersive way to engage with the region’s striking waterway and desert backdrop through paddle sports. Located near Gunlock Reservoir, this outfitter brings paddlers of all skill levels to calm blue waters framed by sandstone cliffs and juniper-covered mesas. Paddle Gunlock’s range of kayak and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals includes options from two-hour bursts to full-day excursions, giving visitors the flexibility to tailor their adventure to fit their schedule.
The standout experience is the Kayak Eco-Tour, where guides highlight local ecology, from towering cottonwoods and river otters to the desert plants that hug this intermittent lake's edge. Tandem kayak experiences add a social element for couples or friends wanting shared time on the water. Beyond rentals, the Movara Paddle Tour and Clinic caters to paddlers seeking technical skills, improving stroke efficiency and water reading in an intimate setting. The SUP Eco-Tour offers another vantage point to glide silently while keeping a close eye on the reservoir’s quiet wildlife.
Gunlock Reservoir itself is steeped in geological history, as the area’s sedimentary rock formations echo the region’s volcanic and erosional past. The reservoir is not only a local fishing spot but also a refuge for migrating birds and native fish species, making every paddle a chance to feel connected to Utah’s high desert environment. Paddle Gunlock anchors this unique outdoor offering by combining education, recreation, and conservation awareness.
For visitors coming from St. George, just 40 minutes south, Paddle Gunlock provides a refreshing aquatic counterpoint to the red rock hiking and mountain biking nearby. Its genuine focus on small-group tours and equipment quality sets it apart as a must-visit resource for paddling enthusiasts in southwestern Utah. Whether renting gear on your own or joining a guided eco-tour, expect a hands-on adventure that uncovers an aquatic side of Utah many don’t expect. Paddle Gunlock bridges the water’s stillness with the raw desert energy surrounding it, inviting paddlers to move deliberately, observe closely, and connect deeply.
Gunlock Reservoir water levels can fluctuate seasonally; verify current conditions for safe paddling.
The high desert sun is intense—bring a hat, UV-protective clothing, and sunscreen for all-day coverage.
Rocky shorelines and occasionally slippery ramps make water shoes a smart choice for launches and landings.
Guided eco-tours and clinics can book up quickly in summer; plan ahead for preferred dates and times.
Gunlock Reservoir was created in the early 20th century to support irrigation, shaping the local agriculture and recreation landscape.
Paddle Gunlock emphasizes Leave No Trace principles and supports local efforts to protect shoreline habitats and water quality.
Safety is paramount; always wear a fit-for-purpose personal flotation device while on the water.
Protects your face and neck from intense desert sun during extended paddling sessions.
spring|summer|fall specific
Provides grip and protection when entering or exiting the water over rocky terrain.
Staying hydrated is critical in the dry climate, especially on longer tours or rentals.
summer|spring|fall specific