Paddle the beautiful Colorado River at Willow Beach with a private adventure that reveals stunning landscapes and rare wildlife. Perfect for all experience levels looking to combine exercise and exploration.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to handle continuous paddling and some hiking during lessons or onshore exploration.
Wildlife
History
Willow Beach served historically as a trade and transit point along the Colorado River, with rich Native American cultural ties.
Conservation
Efforts focus on protecting the fragile river ecosystem by minimizing human impact and promoting responsible paddling practices.
Paddle to the Core
Paddle the beautiful Colorado River at Willow Beach with a private adventure that reveals stunning landscapes and rare wildlife. Perfect for all experience levels looking to combine exercise and exploration.
Paddle to the Core, based in Boulder City, Nevada, offers a focused selection of paddle experiences and rentals around Lake Mead, Willow Beach and the stretch beneath Hoover Dam. The company provides kayak rentals with all necessary gear included, plus overnight camping options under spectacular night skies. Stand-up paddleboard sessions that welcome dogs begin with essential training and expert guidance so owners and pets can learn safety, balance, and paddling techniques together. For adventurers seeking a longer challenge, Paddle to the Core runs a 13-mile Hoover Dam to Willow Beach trip that navigates dramatic canyon scenery and accesses hot springs and hidden shoreline features without outside assistance. Shorter options include a two-hour Boulder Islands Paddle on Lake Mead that reaches the quiet backside of Boulder Island for peaceful paddling and mountain views, and The Rivers Edge experience at Willow Beach featuring a beach lesson, shoreline exploration, and wildlife viewing opportunities such as Bald Eagles and Big Horn Sheep. All offerings emphasize self-guided exploration, provided equipment, and partner-ready instruction when applicable. Operating from Boulder City, the business is featured on The Adventure Collective and focuses on outdoor paddle experiences suited to a range of skill levels—from relaxed 2-hour paddles to full-day, overnight, and multi-mile canyon runs.
Trip summaries note opportunities to encounter diverse wildlife and include safety measures and gear instructions for participants. Reservations and specific meeting locations are provided per booking details online.
Location
Boulder City, NV
Base for all trips and rentals
Trip Range
2-hour to 13-mile
Short paddles to multi-mile canyon runs
Tours Offered
5 trip types
Kayak, SUP, island, river, canyon
Pet-Friendly
DogOnSUP available
SUP training sessions for dogs
Find kayak rentals, dog-friendly SUP training, or the Hoover Dam to Willow Beach 13-mile paddle — reserve equipment and trip details online.
Wear Quick-Dry Clothing
Opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics to stay comfortable when paddling and after any splash.
Bring Sunscreen and a Hat
Sun exposure can be intense, so protect your skin and eyes with SPF and shaded gear.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water since desert conditions can quickly cause dehydration.
Watch for Wildlife at a Distance
Keep a respectful distance from animals like Bald Eagles and Big Horn Sheep to avoid disturbing them.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Safety first—wear a properly fitting PFD during the entire paddling experience.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated with a refillable water bottle suitable for the desert heat.
Wide-Brimmed Hat
Protect yourself from the sun during spring paddles when UV rays start increasing.
spring
Lightweight Waterproof Jacket
Bring a light jacket for fall to guard against cooler winds and possible light showers.
fall