Adventure Collective
Verde River Kayak Tours with OAC Tours in Arizona - Phoenix

Verde River Kayak Tours with OAC Tours in Arizona

Cottonwoodeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for participants with basic fitness; paddling is gentle and guides support all skill levels.

Overview

Paddle Arizona’s scenic Verde River with OAC Tours for a calm, scenic kayak trip perfect for all skill levels. Finish your adventure with local wines and bites at charming regional venues.

$1500.00
Cottonwood, Arizona

Private Kayak Tour

3 Hours • Up to 10 People

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Adventure Photos

Private Kayak Tour photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience a serene kayaking adventure on Arizona's Wild and Scenic Verde River, perfect for all skill levels. After paddling through stunning landscapes, indulge in local refreshments at charming venues like Tantrum Wines. Enjoy a unique blend of nature and culinary delights for an unforgettable afternoon escape.

A beautiful paddle followed by local refreshments of your choice!

Rates

Private Tour Buy-Out $1500

Duration

3 Hours

About

What better way to spend an afternoon than with a river paddle followed by local fare?

This kayaking tour is $120 per person and includes shuttle to and from the river with your choice of wine tasting and ither menu options at Tantrum Wines.

Check in at the boathouse and we will shuttle to and from the Verde River for the tour. Come paddle the peaceful, picturesque stretch of the Verde River @ Clarkdale. Recognized as one of Arizona’s only two Wild and Scenic Rivers, beginner and veteran paddlers alike enjoy the scenery and opportunities to cool off in this lush riparian community.

Once off the river, you will have the option of changing or freshening up before venturing off to a local partner of your choice, for individual bookings head to Tantrum Wines to enjoy the ambiance of a Parisian style Cafe and an area of wine tasting possibilities. Group bookings receive a private patio at The Krow or a private room at Blazin' M Ranch for your choice of wine or beer flights and added fun from local providers. Conveniently located within minutes of Clarkdale or Old Town Cottonwood for dinner or drinks for a relaxing Sip-n-Shop experience.

Tour pricing includes all boats and safety equipment, transportation, fees and skilled guides. (Guide Gratuity not included)

This adventure is intended for adults 21 and over in your choice of single or tandem kayaks.

Please arrive 1 hour before your tour is scheduled for tour prep, safety instructions and shuttle to the river. Changing facilities, restrooms and lockers are available at the boathouse.

NEED TO KNOW INFO:

  • Check in 45 minutes prior to tour launch time at 551 N Main St, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
  • Lockers and changing rooms available for use
  • You will get wet from the waist down! Dress for water and weather
  • You walk in and out of the river so your shoes are wet and muddy.
  • NO FLIP FLOPS, CROCS, SLIDES, BACKLESS SHOES OR BARE FEET!
  • Single kayaks are standard and suggested unless paddling with children 12 and under
  • Double kayaks must be requested prior to check in
  • Waivers required for all participants
  • Private tours are Non-refundable within 7 days of check in

WHAT TO BRING:

River essentials include:

  • Refillable water bottle, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, towel
  • Snacks and other sundries available for purchase at OAC (Everything else should be locked up at the boathouse)

WHAT ELSE:

  • Porta potty at put in and take out
  • Restroom available at the boathouse prior to shuttle ride
  • Brief shuttle ride and safety talk prior to launch
  • On the water for 2+ hours
  • Everything gets wet from the waist down!
  • Option to swim at the swimming hole or wade in the water at your comfort level (during warm weather)
  • Give yourself half an hour after tour ending time for return shuttle, change and freshen up if needed before scheduling any additional activities
  • 602-834-5034 Call reservations if you have any questions

Itinerary:

  • 9:45am Check in
  • 10:00am Shuttle departs
  • 10:15am Brief Safety Talk
  • 10:30am-12:30pm Private Guided Kayak Tour
  • 12:45pm Return Shuttle
  • 1:00pm Check out
  • Water shoes, water bottles, Aqua Case (per adult) and snacks provided per person

Adventure Tips

Wear Secure Water Shoes

Shoes must protect your feet and stay on when wet; flip-flops and slides are not allowed due to slippery riverbanks.

Arrive Early for Check-In

Arrive 45 minutes before launch for safety briefings, equipment fitting, and shuttle boarding from the Cottonwood boathouse.

Dress for Getting Wet

Prepare to get wet from the waist down; wear quick-drying clothing and bring a towel for after the tour.

Hydrate and Protect Yourself

Bring a refillable water bottle, hat, and sunscreen to stay hydrated and shielded from the Arizona sun.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Beavers active along the riparian corridors
  • Belted kingfishers darting overhead

History

The Verde River is one of Arizona’s only two federally designated Wild and Scenic Rivers, preserving its natural state since 1984.

Conservation

OAC Tours promotes Leave No Trace principles and partners with local conservation to maintain the river’s pristine quality and wildlife habitat.

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Adventure Hotspots in Phoenix

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Water shoes

Essential

Protect your feet and provide traction for riverbanks and wet surfaces.

summer specific

Quick-dry clothing

Essential

Dries fast and keeps you comfortable when wet from paddling or splashes.

summer specific

Refillable water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated during the paddle and throughout the day.

Sunscreen

Essential

Protect exposed skin from the strong Arizona sun.

spring specific