Las Vegas is an ideal destination for people who love the outdoors. Beyond the city’s entertainment, nearby landscapes offer remarkable places to get on the water.
Where Is Lake Mead?
Lake Mead sits in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area near Las Vegas and Boulder City, on the Nevada-Arizona border. The recreation area includes the Colorado River below Hoover Dam, where paddlers can explore Black Canyon.
Yes, You Can Kayak Lake Mead
Kayaking is a wonderful way to see the lake and river scenery, but conditions can vary. Choose an appropriate route, watch the weather, and give boat traffic plenty of room.
Bring the Essentials
Bring drinking water, SPF, a hat, sunglasses, secure footwear, a personal flotation device, and dry storage for essentials. Dress for water temperature rather than only the air temperature, and avoid cotton because it takes longer to dry.
Know Where to Launch
Kayaks and other non-motorized boats do not need a Nevada license or registration, but paddlers should understand boating regulations and launch options. Canoe/Kayak Beach near Boulder City, Willow Beach, and the base of Hoover Dam are common starting points. Check permits and fees in advance.
Opt for a Guided Kayaking Tour
A guided tour can take care of kayak rentals, permits, and transportation. Evolution Expeditions offers Emerald Cave Deluxe and Express trips with snacks, historical stops, wildlife viewing, and shuttle service.
Emerald Cave Deluxe
This four-hour trip begins at Willow Beach Marina, travels beside the volcanic walls of Black Canyon, and includes time at the beach, snacks, and lunch.
Emerald Cave Express
The shorter excursion covers a four-mile route through Lake Mead, the Colorado River, and remarkable sites around Hoover Dam.
Kayak Lake Mead With Us
Tours run at Lake Mead all year, giving guests a safe way to glide through serene water and enjoy a striking Nevada and Arizona shoreline.
