The Kayaking Trail in Nevada That’s Better Than Most Hikes

Mention the best hiking trails in Nevada, and the Historic Railroad Trail at the Hoover Dam is on my list. That said, many kayakers would agree that the Colorado River Paddle: Hoover Dam to Willow Beach Route is better than some hikes at the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. This kayaking route in Nevada is a favorite among locals and visitors seeking another side of the historic site. While paddling along the calm waters of the Colorado River, you’ll drift by high canyon walls, sandy beaches, hot springs, and hidden caves, and you might even spot the bighorn sheep that call the area home. If you’re an avid paddler or just starting out, this kayaking trail could become your new favorite thing to do in Nevada. Well, at least, I think so.   

Where This Trail Is and What Makes It Unique 

The Colorado River Paddle runs along the upper section of the Black Canyon National Water Trail, a 30-mile paddle route that stretches from the Hoover Dam to Eldorado Canyon. The 12-mile kayak trail launches in Boulder City, and depending on how many stops you make, it should take about six hours to complete.

This trip feels exclusive since the launch area at the base of the Hoover Dam requires a permit. The good news is, you’ll have no issues finding outfitters that will take care of logistics like permits, stopping points, and shuttle pick-up/drop-off. If you’re a beginner kayaker, don’t be discouraged by the mileage. Simply opt for a guided tour with a knowledgeable guide. 

Pro or self-guided kayakers can expect calm waters, and you’ll notice that there are lots of places to stop along the way. Many kayakers break up this trip by camping overnight, or they paddle at their own pace, making frequent stops at the riverside beaches or to hike through the canyon. Since Lake Mead National Recreation Area is only about an hour south of Las Vegas, the paddle trail is easily accessible for a day or overnight trip. 

No matter how you choose to complete this trail, you’ll be seeing a different perspective of the desert that millions of visitors will never experience for themselves. It’s no wonder that this water trail is often described as a bucket-list-worthy trip in Nevada.      

What You’ll See Along the Way

The main draw along the trail is paddling through the Black Canyon, the Sauna Cave, stopping at the hot springs, and I can’t forget to mention the glowing Emerald Cove. Since the trail begins at the base of the Hoover Dam, your first views will be of the 700-foot man-made structure from below. Most visitors will never witness this vantage point from the main observation spots inside the park. 

From the launch area, expect to paddle downstream through Black Canyon and be amazed at the towering volcanic rock walls that are a contrast to the emerald waters of the Colorado River. There are also hidden coves, multiple hot springs, and the Sauna Cave, a geothermal grotto that you can hike to if you choose. Sandy beaches along the way are places to rest and enjoy a snack before launching back on the water.

Another highlight of this paddle (and worth the detour) is found on the Arizona side: the famous Emerald Cove. When the sunlight hits the Colorado River, the cave glows with green hues, so you’ll want to have your camera to snap pics here. Aside from all the detours on the trail, you’ll appreciate the quieter sections, where you can simply listen to the sounds of the paddle hitting the water. Be sure to look out for bighorn sheep, waterfowl, or bald eagles flying high above the canyon walls. This paddle trail will be a true sensory experience with man-made wonders and the best of Nevada’s nature. 

Tips for Visiting This Paddle Trail

As with most kayaking trips or hiking trails in the Nevada desert, the earlier you get out, the better. Plus, it can get windy on the water in the later part of the day, making paddling more challenging. For this paddle route, plan your trip between October and mid-spring before the desert heat reaches triple digits. Sunscreen, a life jacket, a hat, proper footwear, snacks, and lots of water (more than you need) are essential.

Due to its permit requirements, this kayaking trip requires extra planning, so you’ll want to make sure you secure a permit or book a guided tour in advance. Visit the National Park Service website for more information about permits, closures, and to check weather conditions before your trip. Don’t have a kayak? Make things simple by booking this Hoover Dam Kayak Tour and Hot Springs Hike, and all the necessary permits, equipment, and gear will be taken care of—and it includes lunch, which is a bonus if you ask me.

The next time you’re in the Vegas area and you need to escape the buzz of the strip, head to Boulder City to paddle one of the best kayaking trails in Nevada, and uncover the magic of the desert from the waterway. It’s a part of the desert that even some locals don’t get to see, and a great alternative to hiking the trails at Lake Mead National Recreation Area.