From Las Vegas: Hoover Dam Kayak Trip with 6 Hot Springs

Planning an escape from the bright lights of Las Vegas into nature’s quiet wonders? This Hoover Dam kayak trip promises a full-day adventure packed with scenic views, geothermal hot springs, secret caves, and the thrill of paddling along the Colorado River. It’s not your average tour—this outing aims to combine the marvels of engineering with natural geothermal phenomena, all from the comfort of a kayak.

What caught our eye? First, the variety of stops—hot springs, waterfalls, and caves—that offer a multi-faceted experience. Second, the expert guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. On the flip side, the tour’s length and physical demand might be a stretch for some, especially in summer heat or for non-swimmers. It’s best suited for those with some paddling experience and a love for outdoor adventures.

If you’re after a unique way to see the Colorado River and love exploring geothermal spots, this tour could be a great fit. But if you prefer a more relaxed, scenic boat ride or have mobility concerns, it might be worth considering other options. Now, let’s dig into what makes this experience worthwhile and what you should know before booking.

Key Points

• Unique combination of kayaking, hot springs, and caves along the Colorado River.
• Expert guides who enhance the experience with their knowledge.
• Variety of stops providing different scenic and geothermal sights.
• Physical activity involved, suitable for active travelers.
• Requires permits and pre-planning to access Hoover Dam’s restricted areas.
• Includes lunch and water, but bring extra hydration especially in summer.
• Good for those comfortable in water and with a moderate fitness level.
• One of the most memorable dam trips thanks to the diverse stops and stunning views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Hoover Dam Kayak Trip

This isn’t just a casual paddle—think of it as a thoughtfully curated adventure across 12 miles of the Colorado River, with plenty of opportunities to explore nature’s geothermal gifts. Starting from the Willow Beach launch site, you’ll head toward Hoover Dam, but the real magic happens once you’re on the water.

Launching from Hoover Dam

The trip kicks off early, with launch times available at 7 am, 8 am, or 9 am. The meeting point is conveniently at the Willow Beach Parking Lot, where you’ll meet your guide and board the shuttle to the dam. It’s important to arrive about 1.5 hours prior to your launch, so plans to arrive early are key—plus, this ensures you get through the necessary permit checks.

The Kayaking Itinerary

The journey itself is roughly 8 hours, covering about 12 miles downstream. You’re provided with a single sit-inside kayak, with tandems available if you’re paddling with a partner. During your paddle, your guide will help navigate currents and assist if anyone feels unsteady. If you’re worried about physical limits, the tour’s physicality is worth considering—you’ll want to be comfortable paddling for extended periods.

Stops and Highlights

Each stop on this trip is carefully selected for its natural or historical significance. Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Sauna Cave: This geothermal lava tube offers a chance to explore a man-made, naturally occurring geothermal steam cave. It’s a fascinating spot that highlights the geothermal activity in the canyon.
• Goldstrike Hot Springs: A brief 5-minute hike takes you to these soothing hot springs, perfect for a quick dip or a photo. The hot springs are accessible via a short walk, making this a manageable stop.
• Lone Palm Falls: Picture yourself next to a 40-foot geothermal waterfall, steaming and flowing year-round. It’s an eye-catching photo spot that also demonstrates the geothermal activity beneath the surface.
• Boyscout Canyon: This is the highlight for adventure lovers—climb ropes, explore slot canyons, and see multiple 300+ foot geothermal waterfalls. Only accessible by foot and paddle, it’s a favorite among those looking for a bit of adrenaline.
• Arizona Hot Springs: After a 10-minute hike, you’ll get to soak in natural tiered pools, enjoying the scenery and the believed health benefits of geothermal water.
• Infinity Hot Springs & Waterfalls: Imagine soaking in cliffside thermal pools with an epic view over the river, combined with waterfalls that cascade down mineral-rich cliffs.
• Emerald Cave: You’ll see this famous, glowing cavern that’s a visual feast—especially at the right time of day.

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What’s Notable About These Stops?

Many reviews highlight guides’ knowledge and friendliness—one traveler from Canada described the trip as “great,” despite getting rained on. The guide apparently made the experience memorable, which is just as important as the scenery. The variety of geothermal spots stands out, offering both quick dips and longer soaking options, perfect for those who love thermal waters.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour is priced at $249 per person, which might seem steep, but it covers quite a bit:

• An 8-hour guided kayak trip covering 12 miles.
• All necessary paddling gear and tandem options.
• Lunch and ice water, with a note to bring extra hydration.
• Shuttle service from Willow Beach to Hoover Dam and back.

However, there are some essential extras to keep in mind:

• You’ll need permits and passes to access the dam’s restricted roads—these aren’t included in the base price and must be arranged in advance. The tour’s team handles this, but it’s a crucial step to ensure access.
• Entry into Willow Beach itself costs extra, either via a National Parks Pass or a $25 fee per car, but since you’ll be there early, you might avoid this fee.
• Tipping your guide is customary—average tips are around $40-$60 per person.

Is It Good Value?

Considering the stops, the guidance, and the included lunch, many would agree it offers solid value for outdoor adventure and geothermal exploration. It’s not just a kayaking trip—it’s an experience that combines nature, geology, and engineering marvels. Plus, the small-group setting tends to enhance the trip’s intimacy and safety.

Physical and Logistical Considerations

While this trip is suitable for active, water-loving travelers, it’s important to note that it’s not suitable for children under 6 or non-swimmers. The tour also has a weight limit of 250 lbs (113 kg). You’ll want to be comfortable paddling and walking on hikes, some of which are short but involve uneven terrain or ropes.

In summer, heat can be intense, so having plenty of water and sun protection is advised. The tour provides some ice water, but bringing an extra 3 liters is a good idea. The experience involves some physical effort, especially during hikes and climbs, so it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This kayak trip from Las Vegas to the Hoover Dam with stops at 6 hot springs is a bonafide adventure. If you’re someone who loves exploring different environments—geothermal caves, waterfalls, slot canyons—and doesn’t mind a bit of physical activity, you’ll likely find it exhilarating. The knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery make it a memorable way to escape the city buzz.

However, this isn’t a laid-back float. Expect to paddle for hours, hike, climb ropes, and enjoy some chilly water therapy. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full, active day and love discovering natural wonders away from crowds.

If you’re after a relaxing boat cruise or aren’t comfortable in water, this might not be the best fit. But for those craving a mix of adventure, geology, and breathtaking views, it’s a solid choice.

FAQ

Do I need a special permit to do this tour?
Yes, the tour requires launch permits and special use passes for access to the Hoover Dam area. The tour operator handles this, but you need to arrange it in advance.

What’s included in the price?
The $249 fee covers the guided kayaking trip, gear, a provided lunch, and ice water. It does not include park entry fees or tips for guides.

Can I choose a different launch time?
Yes, you can select from 7 am, 8 am, or 9 am by calling ahead. The default is 9 am unless you specify otherwise.

Is this trip suitable for families?
It’s not explicitly designed for children under 6 or non-swimmers. The physical activity and hikes mean it’s better suited for active travelers comfortable with water and some walking.

What should I bring?
Bring at least 3 liters of water, sun protection, closed-toe shoes for hikes, and a sense of adventure. The guides will provide paddling gear, but extra water and personal items are your responsibility.

What if it rains?
One review noted a traveler got rained on but still enjoyed the trip. Guides are experienced, and some activities are weather-dependent, so check the forecast.

How long is the trip?
The total experience is about 8 hours, including paddling, stops, hikes, and breaks.

Are tandem kayaks available?
Yes, tandem kayaks are available upon request, which can be helpful if you’re paddling with a partner or someone less experienced.

Is tipping expected?
Yes, tipping guides is customary, with the average being around $40-$60 per person if you feel the guide provided a great experience.

What’s the best time of year for this trip?
While available year-round, summer can be hot, so plan accordingly. Spring and fall might offer more temperate weather, making hikes and water dips more comfortable.

To sum it up, this Hoover Dam kayak tour with hot springs is a well-rounded, exciting outdoor adventure. Perfect for active travelers who love geothermal sites, caves, and scenic river paddling, it delivers a day packed with sights and experiences you won’t forget. Just make sure you’re ready for some physical activity and have booked your permits ahead of time. If you want to combine a bit of engineering marvel with natural geothermal beauty in a guided, small-group setting, this tour is definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: