Hoover Dam Kayaking Trip, 6 Hot Springs, 6 Caves, 4 Waterfalls
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
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Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 46 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Hoover Dam Kayaking Trip, 6 Hot Springs, 6 Caves, 4 Waterfalls worth booking?
Hoover Dam Kayaking Trip, 6 Hot Springs, 6 Caves, 4 Waterfalls is a 7-hour experience in Las Vegas, United States, from $222 per person. It scores 71 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 46 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 71 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (46)
- Duration
- 7 hours
- From
- $222 per person
Our Hoover Dam Kayak Trip is one of the, if not the, Best Dam Trip in the World. Our trip is unique due to our above-and-beyond quest to see as much as we can on this absolutely amazing 12-mile stretch of the Colorado Ri
What you get
About this experience
Our Hoover Dam Kayak Trip is one of the, if not the, Best Dam Trip in the World. Our trip is unique due to our above-and-beyond quest to see as much as we can on this absolutely amazing 12-mile stretch of the Colorado River. We make 4 extra Stops/Hikes/Rain Caves on this trip Guests could choose to experience ONE of these slot canyons on a day hike during winter, but it is not accessible during summer due to the heat. We see ALL via shortcut kayaking the Colorado River. Sauna Cave: We’ll stop here to discover hot springs deep inside the canyon Gold Strike Hot Springs: We'll hike 5 Minutes to these hot springs for a quick dip, and possibly hike further. Lone Palm Falls: Picture Opp with a 40-foot 96+ degree geothermal Waterfall Boyscout Canyon: We’ll explore to see multiple 300+ Foot Horizontal Geothermal Waterfalls Lunch and Ice Water at Arizona Hot Springs: We’ll hike about 10 minutes up to this open Hot Spring Slot Canyon Lastly, Emerald Cave Finish at Willow Beach
What's included
Included
- We provide single kayaks, Double Old Town Loons (best for beginners), single Old Town Toons, Sit-On-Top Kayaks, and we can arrange Canoes at a small extra cost.
- Life Jackets & Paddles
Not included
- Gratuity for your Tour Guide
- Admission fees
- Entrance fees
What you'll see and do
Mike O'Callaghan - Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge
We are one of the few Outfitters approved to take you to the base of the base of the awe-inspiring Hoover Dam. There are restricted passes and guests do need to go through an approved outfitter like us to launch in kayaks from the base of the Hoover Dam. We see Sauna Cave, Goldstrike Waterfalls, Melt Your Shoes Hot Springs, Arizona Hot Springs, Boyscout Slot Canyon, and the Emerald Cave.
20 minutes here · Admission not included
Colorado River
Kayak from Hoover Dam to the legendary Sauna Cave, a 140-foot geothermal tunnel of steam. This natural wonder reaches internal temperatures over 140°F, created by intense geothermal activity beneath the Earth’s surface. We begin by driving down a highly restricted road—normally reserved only for Hoover Dam employees—thanks to our exclusive, pre-approved access passes. The drive takes about 10 minutes. From there, we launch our kayaks directly into the Colorado River. Our first stop: a man-made hot spring that looks and feels completely natural. (We’ll explain the wild backstory in person!)
60 minutes here · Admission included
Colorado River
After soaking out all the toxins and jumping in the nice, refreshingly cool Colorado River, we stop at Two Spectacular Geothermal Rain Caves, including First Rain Cave, First and Last Emerald Cave, and Little Mermaid Rock.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Colorado River
Melt Your Shoes Hot Springs is our Third Stop. The underwater jacuzzi in the Colorado River leads us to a 120-130 degree waterfall where geothermal water is spewing out of the side of the cliff. The blend of hot water and lower river levels can create a perfect 98 to 108-degree Jacuzzi at the riverbank.
15 minutes here · Admission included
Colorado River
Goldstrike Hot Springs and Slot Canyon is our next stop, where we hike up the slot 95 degree stream, to a beautiful geothermal waterfall and Hot Springs with five layers of Hot Springs to choose your desired heat. Very light scrambling here. Very doable hike. Based on heat and hiking comfort level, we hike up to the top of the waterfall and see a 300-foot horizontal waterfall. Please note: You can hike all of these during winter and spring, but they are closed during summer due to the heat. You'd only have time to hike one each day. We get to see all of these with our backdoor pass from kayaking the Colorado River. + We get to drive down and launch in kayaks from the base of the dam, and see one of the most, if not The Most Beautiful, stretches of any river in the world.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Colorado River
Lone Palm Falls Geothermal Waterfall. You can hike all of these during winter and spring, but they are closed during summer due to the heat. You'd only have time to hike one each day. We get to see all of these with our backdoor pass from kayaking the Colorado River.
15 minutes here · Admission included
Colorado River
Boyscout Canyon: Year-round, the safest and easiest way to access the canyon is through the river with an outfitter like us. (Unless you have a 350-foot rappelling rope lying around and a car that off off-road). This is our favorite stop, weather and time permitting. It's not for the faint of heart, but kids in the 5th-8th grade can make it up the second geothermal waterfall rope climb and see the 400-foot horizontal rain cave and waterfall. We guide you and show you how to use leverage against both sides of the slot canyon to pull yourself up.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Arizona Hot Springs
We hike up from the river and up a large ladder through a waterfall to get to the world-famous Arizona Hot Springs.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Technically, we are paddling through the Black Canyon water trail from the base of the Hoover Dam to Willow Beach, which is in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. We will be paddling with a nice, calm, and slow one mph current of the river. We will show you how to catch the current as it is coming down, avoiding eddy currents. We will see 6 caves in total, 11 Geothermal Waterfalls, 4-6 Hot springs, and also stop at some of the most beautiful beaches and emerald caves with crystal-clear, almost glowing water guiding our path.
180 minutes here · Admission included
Willow Beach
We exit here at the dirt boat launch of Willow Beach. We can either pick you up there (If your a morning person) so you can hop in your car and go when we conclude our trip, or we can take you back to your car at the Hoover Dam Lodge (If your not a morning person)
20 minutes here
Emerald Cove
We will pass by the Emerald Cave on our way back to Willow Beach. Lighting will be good July-September but we can go inside year round.
15 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Las Vegas
We meet at the National Park Parking Lot just to the left of the Hoover Dam if you're looking at it. (West Parking Lot of Hoover Dam Lodge) Sometimes we will meet our guests directly here instead of Willow Beach in the morning. When we call to book your exclusive permits, we will discuss this.
Meeting point
Las Vegas
We will text direct meetup directions to discuss. We usually meet at Willow Beach, since this is the end point. Our Driver and Guide will meet you 1.5 hours before launch Las Vegas Time. We always meet before, there could be a $25 fee to enter, without a National Parks pass after 7:30 AM weekends.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
We meet at the National Park Parking Lot just to the left of the Hoover Dam if you're looking at it. (West Parking Lot of Hoover Dam Lodge) Sometimes we will meet our guests directly here instead of Willow Beach in the morning. When we call to book your exclusive permits, we will discuss this.
Ends at
We will text direct meetup directions to discuss. We usually meet at Willow Beach, since this is the end point. Our Driver and Guide will meet you 1.5 hours before launch Las Vegas Time. We always meet before, there could be a $25 fee to enter, without a National Parks pass after 7:30 AM weekends.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Adventure Child LLC
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 46 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
6 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
46 verified traveler reviews for Hoover Dam Kayaking Trip, 6 Hot Springs, 6 Caves, 4 Waterfalls. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Excellent adventure
The Hoover Dam kayak trip was truly an experience of a lifetime! If you're planning this adventure, I highly recommend requesting Sean as your guide. He was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely cared about making sure everyone had an amazing experience. Sean came well prepared with plenty of delicious food, snacks, and cold water to keep us fueled throughout the 12 mile journey. Even though the temperatures were extremely hot, the cool, refreshing water made the kayaking much more enjoyable. One of the highlights of the trip was Sean's knowledge of the Hoover Dam and the surrounding area. He shared fascinating stories and pointed out interesting landmarks along the way. He also knew all the best places to stop, including beautiful hot springs, scenic lunch spots, and perfect places to take a break and cool off. If you're booking this trip, definitely ask for Sean—you won't regret it! I also recommend bringing a Camel back or another hydration pack with plenty of water, along with a wide-brimmed hat or other sun protection. It's hot on the river with zero shade.. This was an unforgettable adventure, and I would absolutely do it again!
Response from the operator: Hi Jodi! Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a detailed review! We are absolutely thrilled to hear that your Las Vegas Kayak Tour was an experience of a lifetime. We'll be sure to pass your kind words along to Sean—he takes immense pride in keeping everyone well-fed, hydrated, and filled with great history throughout the 12-mile journey. Launching right at the base of the dam to explore hidden hot springs and spots like Boyscout Canyon is what makes this the Best Hoover Dam kayak trip. Whether guests want a full-day excursion or quick Las Vegas Kayaking, we strive to deliver the most immersive Black Canyon Adventures on the river. Thank you also for sharing those great pro-tips on hydration packs and sun protection! As a top choice for Las Vegas Kayaking Tours, Las Vegas kayak tours, and Vegas Kayaking Tours, keeping our paddlers safe and comfortable while they Kayak Hoover Dam is our highest priority. Thank you again for choosing Adventure Child for your Black Canyon Kayaking journey and top Kayak Tours! We can't wait to guide you on the water again next time!
via Viator
Best day ever!
Best day ever! Dylan was an amazing guide! We could tell he was extremely passionate about showing us all the incredible unique and beautiful spots. We can’t wait to go again and will definitely recommend to friends and family! Thanks for an extremely memorable day!
Response from the operator: Here are two tailored, SEO-rich response options for kkkjbj’s review praising Dylan for an "amazing day." Option 1: Complete Keyword Coverage (All 11 Keywords Included) Hi kkkjbj! Thank you so much for the fantastic review! We are absolutely thrilled to hear that you had the "best day ever" on the water with us! We will be sure to pass along your kind words to Dylan—he is truly passionate about guiding paddlers to the most breathtaking spots on the river, including iconic locations like Boyscout Canyon. Providing the Best Hoover Dam kayak trip is always our top priority, and getting to Kayak Hoover Dam right from the base of the dam makes for an unforgettable Las Vegas Kayak Tour. Whether guests are looking for full-day Black Canyon Adventures or relaxing Las Vegas Kayaking, our team works hard to deliver top-tier Black Canyon Kayaking experiences. Thank you for recommending Adventure Child to your friends and family! As a premier choice for Las Vegas Kayaking Tours, Las Vegas kayak tours, and Vegas Kayaking Tours, we appreciate your support and can’t wait to welcome you back on future Kayak Tours!
via Tripadvisor
Do the full day tour!
Words can’t begin to capture this incredible adventure! Gorgeous 12 mile paddle on the Colorado River, launching at the base of the Hoover Dam with stops at hot springs, emerald caves, hikes through canyons, coupled with sightings of Big Horn Sheep, lizards and fish. Our amazing, knowledgeable guide, Cam, thought of everything! Yummy snacks and food.
Response from the operator: Hi Kathleen! Thank you so much for the fantastic review! We are thrilled to hear how much you loved your 12-mile paddle on the Colorado River. We will definitely pass your compliments along to Cam—he takes so much pride in taking great care of everyone with yummy snacks, expert guiding, and pointing out local wildlife like Bighorn Sheep! Launching right below the dam to explore hot springs, emerald caves, and side hikes into Boyscout Canyon is what makes this the Best Hoover Dam kayak trip. Whether guests are looking for full-day Black Canyon Adventures or relaxing Las Vegas Kayaking, our team works hard to deliver top-tier Black Canyon Kayaking experiences. Thank you for choosing Adventure Child for your Las Vegas Kayak Tour! As a top-rated choice for Las Vegas Kayaking Tours, Las Vegas kayak tours, and Vegas Kayaking Tours, we love helping paddlers Kayak Hoover Dam and explore the canyon. We hope to see you back on future Kayak Tours soon!
via Tripadvisor
Our guide was awesome!!
This was an absolutely beautiful paddle. Gino was an amazing guide. He helped both of us through some slippery areas and took a huge amount of beautiful pictures. I'll be telling my friends to ask for Gino when they're ready to paddle. I'll ask for him again when we come back for more. Thanks Gino!
Response from the operator: Thank you for the wonderful review! We'll definitely pass along your shoutout to Gino—he loves guiding guests through tricky canyon spots, snapping beautiful pictures, and making sure everyone has an amazing time. Delivering the Best Hoover Dam kayak trip is always our main goal! Whether you're exploring stops like Boyscout Canyon or launching right below the dam to Kayak Hoover Dam, we aim to make every Las Vegas Kayak Tour special. Thank you for choosing Adventure Child and for recommending us to your friends looking for Las Vegas Kayaking Tours, Las Vegas kayak tours, and Vegas Kayaking Tours. We look forward to seeing you back on our Kayak Tours for more Black Canyon Kayaking, Las Vegas Kayaking, and Black Canyon Adventures!
via Tripadvisor
Amazing Experience
We had an absolutely fantastic time on this Hoover Dam kayak tour! Launching right below the dam was such a unique experience and something you can’t do just anywhere. The scenery along the Colorado River was breathtaking, and the vibrant emerald-green color of the water was even more beautiful in person than we expected. The trip was packed with interesting stops, from hot springs tucked into canyons to waterfalls and caves that felt like hidden gems. Every stop offered something different and made the day feel like a true adventure. A big part of what made the experience so enjoyable was our guide, Gino. He was knowledgeable, friendly, and kept the group engaged throughout the trip. He shared interesting information about the area, made sure everyone felt comfortable, and helped create a fun, relaxed atmosphere. This was one of the most memorable outdoor experiences we’ve had. Between the incredible scenery, unique access to areas only reachable by kayak, and Gino’s excellent guiding, this trip exceeded our expectations. We highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun and unforgettable way to experience the Colorado River and Hoover Dam!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $222 to $333
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 16
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 71
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Hoover Dam Kayaking Trip, 6 Hot Springs, 6 Caves, 4 Waterfalls: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Las Vegas.
How much does Hoover Dam Kayaking Trip, 6 Hot Springs, 6 Caves, 4 Waterfalls cost?
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Prices start at $222 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Las Vegas usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Hoover Dam Kayaking Trip, 6 Hot Springs, 6 Caves, 4 Waterfalls take?
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Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Las Vegas is not rushed.
Is Hoover Dam Kayaking Trip, 6 Hot Springs, 6 Caves, 4 Waterfalls worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 71 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 46 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Las Vegas, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Hoover Dam Kayaking Trip, 6 Hot Springs, 6 Caves, 4 Waterfalls?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Hoover Dam Kayaking Trip, 6 Hot Springs, 6 Caves, 4 Waterfalls suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Hoover Dam Kayaking Trip, 6 Hot Springs, 6 Caves, 4 Waterfalls?
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Around 16 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Las Vegas can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Las Vegas and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Hoover Dam Kayaking Trip, 6 Hot Springs, 6 Caves, 4 Waterfalls start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Las Vegas within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Las Vegas?
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Las Vegas sells two trips at once: the Strip after dark, and the red-rock desert that starts twenty minutes past the last casino. Helicopter runs to the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam half-days and Red Rock Canyon drives all leave early, while show tickets, speakeasy crawls and high-roller dining fill the evening. Outty Ranking weighs operator reliability heavily here, because the gap between a well-run desert tour and a coach-and-queue version is enormous. On Outty we rank every Las Vegas experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Small Group: Valley of Fire Half Day Tour from Las Vegas, Small Group Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, 7 Magic Mountains VIP Tour, Grand Canyon West, Hoover Dam Stop, Breakfast, Lunch & Skywalk. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Las Vegas?
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October to April. Summer highs above 105F make midday outdoor tours punishing. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Las Vegas?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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