A mere 25 miles southeast of Las Vegas, between Boulder City and the Colorado River, is the Black Canyon Wilderness Area. Its 13,400 acres hold creeks, 18 miles of trails, hillsides, vegetation, wildlife, and a memorable route for kayaking Black Canyon along the Black Canyon Water Trail.
What is the Black Canyon Water Trail?
In 2014, this section of the Colorado River was officially designated a National Water Trail—the first in the Southwest and the first to flow through a desert. Access points include Hoover Dam and Willow Beach in Arizona.
The beauty of Black Canyon goes beyond the view. It is steeped in history and gives visitors a slice of the Southwest that is hard to find elsewhere.
Going on a Black Canyon Kayak Trip
The Black Canyon Water Trail spans 30 miles and is home to hot springs, wildlife, sandy beaches, caves, coves, and Emerald Cave a couple of miles away. Paddlers travel through Lake Mead National Recreation Area between Hoover Dam and Willow Beach and may spot desert bighorn sheep, turkey vultures, bald eagles, red-tail hawks, and coyotes.
Who Can Kayak Black Canyon?
Anyone and everyone can enjoy this flat-water stretch. It is not a whitewater adventure, so beginner kayakers and families can have a safe, enjoyable journey alongside seasoned paddlers.
4 Tips for a Black Canyon Kayak Trip
1. Prepare for the Sun
Temperatures are no joke. Apply SPF liberally and reapply every few hours; sunglasses help with glare and a hat protects your scalp.
2. Wear Your Lifejacket
A life vest is required by law. Calm water is not a reason to leave it behind: accidents can happen, and a properly fitted lifejacket helps keep you safe.
3. Go with an Experienced Guide
A guide can handle permits and logistics, point out the canyon’s highlights, and help keep the group safe if weather turns or a kayak tips.
4. Wear Clothing You Don’t Mind Getting Wet
Avoid cotton, wear sun-protective layers and a bathing suit, and choose supportive shoes that will not slip off. Ask your guide for seasonal clothing advice.
How Do I Schedule a Black Canyon Kayak Tour?
Evolution Expeditions offers guided kayak tours through Black Canyon, including trips that begin near Hoover Dam and explore the Colorado River’s canyon scenery, wildlife, caves, and hot springs.
