Is prior kayaking experience required?

No, the tour is guided and suitable for beginners with basic physical ability.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, children as young as 5 can be included with a group reservation.

What happens if the weather is bad?

OAC offers no-fee rescheduling or credit if weather or emergencies prevent the tour.

Is transportation included?

Yes, private limo or van shuttle service from Sedona or Verde Valley accommodations is included.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

No, it requires walking up a ramp from the river dock and is not wheelchair accessible.

Can the dining menu be customized?

The package includes preset menus with options for upgrade and adding wine or beer tastings.

River to Ribeye: A Luxurious Kayaking and Dining Adventure on the Verde River | Boat Tour | Canoe

Set along the picturesque banks of Arizona's Verde River near Cottonwood, the River to Ribeye Kayaking Package delivers a refined blend of outdoor adventure and gourmet dining. In this unique full-day experience, guests embark on a guided two-hour kayak journey through some of the most striking riparian landscapes in the Verde Valley before indulging in an upscale meal at Whitehorse Wood-Fired Grill, a local favorite known for its exquisite steak and wood-fired specialties. Cottonwood, a charming town nestled in the Verde Valley, serves as the gateway to this remarkable river adventure. The Verde River itself stretches as one of Arizona’s last free-flowing rivers, supporting diverse wildlife and framed by dramatic desert vegetation and limestone cliffs. Kayakers glide past towering sycamores and cottonwoods, with occasional glimpses of herons, turtles, and even the elusive river otter. The gentle current and professional guides make this trip accessible to paddlers of moderate skill who want to appreciate the serenity of Arizona’s waterway without the rush. What sets this experience apart is the seamless combination of adventure and comfort. Guests are chauffeured from Sedona or local Verde Valley accommodations in a private limousine or passenger van directly to the river launch point. Equipped with water shoes and aqua cases, you’re ready for your paddle under blue skies and warm Arizona sun. After soaking in the natural beauty of the river corridor, the group is whisked away to Whitehorse Wood-Fired Grill for a preset menu that includes wagyu sirloin steaks, wood-fired chicken, and pasta classics. Add-ons like wine or beer tasting and decadent desserts ensure a personalized and celebratory finish. The itinerary is crafted for convenience and enjoyment: from pickup through kayaking and dining to return shuttle service, everything is arranged to keep the day flowing smoothly. This makes it an ideal choice for groups, corporate team-building, special celebrations, or intimate gatherings seeking an elevated experience in Arizona’s outdoors. Beyond just a paddle and a meal, the River to Ribeye Package highlights the Verde River’s ecological significance and the importance of preserving Arizona’s natural heritage. Whether you’re a river lover or a culinary enthusiast, this trip presents an exceptional way to experience one of the Southwest’s scenic treasures in unparalleled style.

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

5 hours.

Fitness level

Participants should be in moderate physical condition, able to paddle and climb a river ramp with ease.

Wildlife

Great blue heron
River otter

History

The Verde River remains one of Arizona's few remaining free-flowing rivers, historically vital to indigenous and early settler communities.

Conservation

OAC emphasizes river stewardship by maintaining low-impact practices and educating guests about preserving the Verde River ecosystem.

OAC Tours is a Cottonwood, Arizona-based outfitter specializing in guided and self-guided paddling experiences on the Verde River. Operating from the Verde Valley region, OAC Tours offers a diverse lineup of river options including guided 2-hour kayak tours, self-guided launches, stand-up paddleboard and inner tube rentals, and pre-arranged back shuttle service to simplify logistics. Trips are tailored to a variety of interests: seasonal winter floats (Polar Bear Float), private and small-group guided tours for families or friends, multi-activity packages that pair ATV rides with river time, and curated local experiences such as Kayak to Cocktails and Kayaks 'N' Cowboys featuring wine tastings and chuckwagon dinners. Equipment and safety gear are provided for rentals and guided outings, and selected seasonal trips include specialized cold-water gear as described in trip descriptions. OAC Tours partners with local venues and outfitters in the Verde Valley for combined experiences, and offers private tour options for groups seeking a personalized outing. Launch points and shuttle arrangements are organized to keep focus on the river experience. For visitors to Cottonwood and the Verde Valley, OAC Tours provides accessible river recreation, flexible booking options, and a range of trips that highlight the natural and cultural offerings along Arizona’s Wild and Scenic Verde River.

Base locationCottonwood, Arizona

Tours offered12+

Specialtywater-activities

StewardshipLeave No Trace