In a city that offers endless options for fun, few activities offer the serenity of kayaking. Gliding across cool, serene waters—while gaining an excellent workout—is perfectly suited for desert denizens thirsty for an adventure.

For the kayak-curious—locals and visitors alike—a good place to start is with a guided tour from a local outfitter. Blazin’ Paddles offers tours on the Black Canyon stretch of the Colorado River, and tour group sizes are limited to 12 people so beginners can feel confident and supported as they take in the dramatic scenery and wildlife.

The accompanying bottom-up view of the Hoover Dam, one of America’s engineering wonders, is simply spectacular, says Blazin’ Paddles owner Ryan Borup.

His company offers a range of experiences including a full-day tour ($209 per person), a 12-mile trip that stops at all the hot springs in the area, including Arizona Hot Springs, Gold Strike Canyon, Sauna Cave, Emerald Cave and more. One of the most popular tours is a half-day tour ($149 per person) out of Willow Beach, “suitable for beginners and for anyone in town for a convention or a bachelor/bachelorette party, or just someone who wants to get off the Strip for a couple of hours,” Borup says.

That four-hour tour out of Willow Beach can also be done at twilight ($199 per person), complete with s’mores and hot dogs to roast over a campfire. Paddlers then return to Willow Beach under moonlight.

A mental game … with a little technique

For those who have never been on a kayak and don’t quite know what to expect, this activity is more mental than physical and can accommodate people with varying degrees of fitness.

“It’s trying to get someone in the mindset that, for instance, on a full-day tour, you’re in for an active 12-mile paddle,” Borup says. “An average person paddles maybe two or three miles an hour, so you’re going to be paddling for a good four hours. If there’s a prevailing headwind, it could make for a little more of a challenge, so we try to get people more into the mindset.”

Once you have the mindset down, it doesn’t hurt to learn a little technique to avoid shoulder strain and maximizing each paddle stroke.

Here’s a primer: Hold the paddle in front of you with your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Now imagine a box in the space between your arms and chest. Keep that imaginary box intact; no bending your elbows or letting your arms take over. Instead, use your torso to power the paddle. Focus on using your core muscles, which are stronger, rather than your arm muscles.

When you’re on the water, your paddle should enter near your feet and exit by your hips, while keeping that torso rotation. This technique helps you paddle more efficiently, reducing fatigue and making your ride smoother and more enjoyable.

Another factor in making your kayaking adventure more enjoyable? Choosing the ideal time to go. Kayaking is a great year-round activity and operators like Blazin’ Paddles see their peak season from May through June, but if you want the perfect conditions, aim for the shoulder seasons: September through November, and March through May. During these months, the water is calmer, the weather cooler, and there are fewer motorboats around, meaning you’ll have the river practically to yourself.

Safety first

Any outdoor activity requires a level of awareness when it comes to safety. Weather, particularly wind and monsoon seasons, can be unpredictable.

“We will only go out as long as the weather allows us, and something that makes us cancel is going to be wind,” Borup says. “We have a cancelation policy in place, [and] in the eight, nine years we’ve been in business, we’ve never had anyone stranded out there.”

The full-day tours come with a lot of side hikes, so kayakers need to be vigilant about getting in and out of the boat and hiking on wet, slippery rocks. Water shoes with a good grip are essential.

As far as wildlife, Borup says that yes, they’re out there, but his tours have never had a problem. “And I don’t foresee us ever having a problem, as long as people are giving the wildlife the respect they deserve,” he adds.

If you’re ready to jump in with both feet out of the water (and into your kayak), there’s really very little you need to bring that the outfitter doesn’t provide for you. In fact, the less you bring the better, and always follow the Leave No Trace philosophy to minimize your impact in the outdoors.

“The one thing you should bring is a picture-taking device,” Borup says. “It’s so beautiful out there. Take pictures so you will always remember it and leave everything else behind.”

KAYAK HOT SPOTS

For more experienced kayakers who want to explore the river at their own pace, Blazin’ Paddles and other outfitters also offer self-guided tours. They provide the kayak, gear and a detailed map. If you have your own equipment, here are some places on Lake Mead that are worth checking out.

Boulder Basin 

Ideal for beginners and seasoned kayakers alike with its calm waters, coves and beaches, Boulder Basin is one of the most accessible and popular kayaking spots in Lake Mead. Boulder Beach has well-maintained facilities and ample parking, making it a convenient starting point for your kayaking adventure. The tranquil waters offer a safe and peaceful paddling experience, with breathtaking views of majestic towering cliffs.

Callville Bay 

Start your paddling adventure at Callville Bay through a series of coves and inlets, then find yourself in Sandy Cove for a relaxing swim. Along the way, stunning views and natural beauty await, with plenty of opportunity for snorkeling and exploring. Pristine beaches and secluded coves offer a perfect break from the city bustle.

South Cove 

If you want to access the more remote east end of the lake, South Cove is a good starting point. It’s where the Colorado River exits the Grand Canyon and starts to form Lake Mead. Located near a Joshua Tree forest, it’s one of the park’s lesser trafficked getaways.

Temple Bar 

Lake Mead offers miles of water for exploration in Arizona and Nevada. Located off Arizona Highway 93 an hour and half from Las Vegas, Temple Bar offers access to coves and beaches along Lake Mead’s shoreline on the Arizona side. With open waters for paddling and side coves for exploring and relaxing, you’ll find plenty of nature’s beauty everywhere. –Genevie Durano

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