Experience the stunning Colorado River with a private paddle adventure at Willow Beach. Learn to paddle, explore quiet shorelines, and spot wildlife in this unique outdoor escape.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic fitness to paddle continuously for several hours and be comfortable in outdoor conditions.
Wildlife
History
Willow Beach has been a fishing and recreational spot for decades, with roots connected to the Hoover Dam construction era.
Conservation
Paddle to the Core practices Leave No Trace principles and emphasizes protecting the Colorado River’s fragile ecosystem during all tours.
Paddle to the Core
Experience the stunning Colorado River with a private paddle adventure at Willow Beach. Learn to paddle, explore quiet shorelines, and spot wildlife in this unique outdoor escape.
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-drying clothes
Lightweight, moisture-wicking attire will keep you comfortable during paddling and potential water splashes.
Bring biodegradable sunscreen
Protect your skin without harming the river’s delicate ecosystem with reef-safe sunscreen products.
Stay hydrated
Carry plenty of water; the desert sun can quickly dehydrate you even while on the water.
Keep distance from wildlife
Observe Bald Eagles and Big Horn Sheep from afar to avoid disturbing their natural behavior.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Safety first – a properly fitted PFD ensures security on the water.
Lightweight paddling gloves
Helps prevent blisters and keeps hands warm during cooler paddling.
fall
Wide-brim sun hat
Protects your face and neck from harsh sun exposure on the open river.
summer
Dry bag
Keeps your electronics and valuables safe and dry throughout the adventure.