What is included in the tour package?

The tour includes round trip shuttle service, guided kayak tour, river usage fees, water shoes, water bottle and snack, photo link, minimum gratuity, and credits for burgers and shared pitchers at The Krow.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, children aged 5 and up can join, with adult supervision and seating available at The Krow.

Is previous kayaking experience required?

No prior experience is necessary; guides provide a safety briefing and assist throughout the paddle.

Are there any physical restrictions?

Participants should be able to paddle, walk up a dock ramp, and sit in a kayak; third trimester pregnancy requires doctor clearance.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?

No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible due to the nature of the river launch and kayak activity.

What happens if the weather is bad?

OAC does not offer refunds or fee rescheduling for weather or natural events; trips may be adjusted if guests arrive late.

Paddle the Verde River: Kayak Adventure with Burgers and Beer in Cottonwood, AZ | Guided Tour | Boat Tour

Located in the heart of Arizona’s Verde Valley, Cottonwood offers an inviting blend of rugged outdoor adventure and lively local culture. The "Boats, Burgers & Beer" tour provides an ideal way to immerse yourself in this vibrant region, combining a guided kayak excursion on the meandering Verde River with a relaxed post-paddle meal at The Krow Bar & Grill. This curated experience brings the perfect balance of scenic outdoor activity and social refreshment, perfect for groups looking to unwind in authentic Arizona style.

The adventure begins with a prompt pickup from The Krow in downtown Cottonwood, where your gear is checked, and you’re shuttled to OAC Tours’ basecamp to prepare for the river journey. Certified guides lead you on a 2-hour paddle through Class I and II rapids, offering a refreshing perspective on the striking geological formations and native flora lining the banks. The Verde River area is known for its sandstone cliffs, cottonwood trees, and an array of desert wildlife, making every turn on the water a chance to spot something special.

The paddle covers scenic stretches characterized by smooth currents interspersed with gentle rapids that balance excitement with accessibility, suitable even for beginner paddlers. After your journey, the shuttle takes you back to The Krow, a local hotspot where a laid-back atmosphere awaits. Here, tasty burgers, cold beer, and big-screen games make for the ideal way to relax and celebrate the day’s adventure.

Boats, Burgers & Beer stands out in the Cottonwood outdoor recreation scene by seamlessly blending outdoor sports with local hospitality. The partnership between OAC Tours and The Krow creates a complete day experience where nothing is left to chance. From water shoes and snacks included in the package to shuttle services and photo links from your paddle, the tour emphasizes comfort and convenience.

The Verde River corridor itself holds a rich ecological and cultural history, acting as a lifeline for indigenous people and settlers over centuries. Today, it remains a treasured natural asset, managed to balance recreation and conservation. This tour not only showcases the river’s natural beauty but encourages guests to appreciate and protect this vital landscape.

Ideal for groups—whether celebrating a bachelor/bachelorette party, family gathering, or just a day out with friends—the Boats, Burgers & Beer excursion offers a memorable taste of Cottonwood’s outdoors and social scene. Whether it’s your first time kayaking or you’re a seasoned paddler, this well-supported and highly social trip will leave you refreshed, satisfied, and ready to explore more of Arizona’s adventure offerings.