Kayak Tours to the Emerald Cave and Black Canyon
Kayak Lake Mead runs guided kayak tours on the Colorado River through the Black Canyon, about an hour's drive from the Las Vegas Strip.
Most tours launch from Kayak Beach at Willow Beach, Arizona. The Whole Dam Tour launches at the base of Hoover Dam. Every tour includes a kayak, paddle, life jacket and a professional guide. Choose an easy half day, an evening paddle under the moon, or a full day from Hoover Dam.
Emerald Cave Kayak Tour
Our most popular tour paddles through the Black Canyon to the Emerald Cave, also called the Emerald Cove, and past historic sites from the Hoover Dam era. It's a perfect half-day trip from Las Vegas.
- 3 to 4 hour guided tour, launching from Willow Beach, AZ
- Launch times: 8 AM and 1 PM
- 4 mile round-trip flat-water paddle
- Kayak, paddle, life jacket and snacks included
- Explore hidden coves, visit private beaches and hike to a scenic overlook
- Chance to see bighorn sheep, bald eagles and other wildlife
Twilight and Moonlight Paddle
Paddle through the Black Canyon in the evening to Bob's Beach for a campfire and a desert sunset, then stargaze on the paddle back. When the moon is out, it becomes a moonlight paddle. It's brightest in the 3 days before, during and after a full moon, but you don't need a moon to have a great night on the river.
- 3 hour guided evening tour, launching from Kayak Beach at Willow Beach, AZ
- 3 mile flat-water paddle
- Kayak gear, snacks and a professional guide included
- Campfire, sunset and stargazing at Bob's Beach
- Chance to spot wildlife that comes out after dark
Cranes Nest Tour
Visit the Emerald Cave, then keep going 2 more miles to Cranes Nest Wash, a quieter stretch of the Colorado River with fewer crowds, a sandy beach with shade trees and an optional hike up a desert canyon.
- 5 hour guided tour, launching from Willow Beach, AZ
- 8 mile round-trip flat-water paddle
- Kayak, paddle, life jacket and snacks included
- Swim from a private beach and explore slot canyons
- Historic sites and more chances to see wildlife
The Whole Dam Tour
This bucket-list trip starts at the base of Hoover Dam, down the original road carved into the canyon walls in the 1930s. Paddle the Colorado River through the Black Canyon, visit the Sauna Cave, and soak in natural hot spring pools along the canyon walls, with waterfalls, wildlife and emerald-green water along the way.
- 7 hour guided tour, meeting at the Hoover Dam Lodge
- 2 person minimum
- Kayak, paddle, life jacket and lunch included
- Launch permit included in the price
- Dates depend on permit availability; payment isn't required until your date is confirmed
South Bound Paddle
Already seen the Emerald Cave? This easy half-day tour heads 2 miles downriver, away from the crowds, to historic artifacts, hidden shores and a beach where you can relax and take a dip. It's great for beginners.
- 3 hour guided tour, launching from Willow Beach, AZ
- 2 mile round-trip paddle, plus an optional 2 mile round-trip hike
- Kayak, paddle, life jacket and snacks included
- Historic sites along the river
Leap in the Past Tour
Paddle almost 4 miles downriver in search of petroglyphs that many paddlers have heard of but few can find. You'll see emerald water, hidden shores and quiet stretches of the canyon away from the Emerald Cave and Willow Beach Marina.
- 5 hour guided tour, launching from Willow Beach, AZ
- 7 mile round-trip paddle
- Swim from a sandy beach and explore the canyon
What to Expect on the Emerald Cave Route
- Willow Beach Marina: visit the store and use the restrooms before your tour.
- Kayak Beach: where we meet and launch.
- Bob's Beach: a stop for a break and snacks.
- The Emerald Cave: take photos of the glowing green water.
- Swim: cool off in the Colorado River.
Before You Book
Guests must be at least 5 years old or 50 lbs. Weight limits depend on height, so check yours with our weight limit tool. All tours are self-drive and must be booked in advance. See our FAQ and policies for cancellations and what to bring.