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Experience the dazzling beauty of the Colorado River with a guided kayak tour through the picturesque Black Canyon and into the breathtaking Emerald Cove. Paddle crystal-clear waters, marvel at towering canyon walls, and relax in the serene glow of this hidden grotto—an unforgettable highlight of your Las Vegas getaway. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this tour includes snacks, bottled water, and convenient hotel pick-up, with a self-drive option also available. Discover why kayaking Emerald Cove is one of the top outdoor adventures near Las Vegas. Book your Black Canyon kayak tour today and make incredible memories just minutes from the Strip!
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please be advised hotel pick-ups commence 60-90 minutes before the posted departure time
Most days, tours fill up but in the event minimum numbers are not met, you will be offered another date or offer a full refund
Emerald Cave is not a paddle through cave but more of a grotto style.
By booking a tour, you assume all risks of your participation in this activity, whether known or unknown to you, including travel to and from the Activity or any events incidental to this Activity. You also agree to the release of images/video for the operator to use at their discretion
National Park entry fee is only included with HOTEL PICKUPS, NOT SELF DRIVE!
Please advise your kayak preference in the Special Requirements field at the time of booking (single or tandem)
Weight limit is 260 lbs
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Willow Beach Marina
Begin your kayak adventure at Willow Beach Marina, where you’ll paddle the clear waters of the Colorado River surrounded by stunning desert scenery. Guided and suitable for all skill levels, this tour promises an unforgettable outdoor escape just outside Las Vegas. Experience the beauty of the river and its dramatic canyons, an absolute highlight for both new and seasoned paddlers.
Colorado River
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of Black Canyon as you kayak along the emerald-green waters of the Colorado River, framed by soaring cliffs and striking desert landscapes. This guided paddling adventure offers a peaceful escape into nature, perfect for all skill levels. Discover the hidden beauty of Nevada’s wilderness just outside Las Vegas on this unforgettable outdoor experience.
Cold, premium bottled spring water
All Safety Equipment
National Park Entrance Fees (Hotel pickups only)
A variety of tasty snacks including an array of granola and protein bars, a wide variety of chips, and fresh fruit!
Kayak Tour in Single (1 person) or Tandem (2 person) Kayaks
Pick-up and drop off from select hotels (if option selected)
Hotel pick-up and drop off (if self-drive option selected)
Lunch
National Park Entrance Fee (Self-drive only)
Gratuities
Excalibur Hotel & Casino
3850 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas United States
Aria Resort & Casino
3730 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas United States
Hotel pick-up is NOT included: You must make your own way to the departure point via rental car. There is no cell reception to arrange your return ride Kayak Type: Please advise your kayak preference in the Special Requirements field at the time of booking (single or tandem)
Hotel Pick-up Time: Pick-up is approximately 90 minutes prior to listed launch times Kayak Size: Please advise your kayak preference in the Special Requirements field at the time of booking (single or tandem) Pickup included
5,161 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Jesse S,May 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Gabby was an awesome guide and very knowledgeable with lots of cool facts/stories along with way. Very enjoyable trip from the shuttle to along the river and back. Highly recommend this experience!
Lisa S,May 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
Beautiful scenery! Amazing guide (Preston)! Fun bonding time for the family! Definitely bring your sunblock!




589eleuterios,May 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
I must say, this has truly been an amazing experience. I have never kayaked before, but with Carlene's help, she was truly helpful and very informative. I would definitely recommend trying it out! The water is very refreshing.


Eleuterio S,May 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
I must say, this has truly been an amazing experience. I have never kayaked before, but with Carlene's help, she was truly helpful and very informative. I would definitely recommend trying it out! The water is very refreshing.
Jan C,May 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
Michelle was our tour guide and what a brilliant guide she was. She took care of everyone on and off the water. She could tell us about the river, the birds, the wildlife and the plants and trees. She was so friendly, fun and efficient. This is one of the best tours we have been on. We'll done Michelle and River Dogz.
Kevin L,May 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
Michelle was the best! She just made the trip enjoyable and is so knowledgeable. You can tell she loves what she does and treats you like friends, not clients. Great trip I would recommend to anyone looking for something other than the casinos or hiking.
Heather D,May 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
This was a great experience. Good for all skill levels. Our guide Michelle was very knowledgeable of the area and provided interesting history on the drive as well. Pick up was very easy and efficient from the hotels they use. Very relaxing paddle even with a lot of other people on the river, you had plenty of room and it never felt crowded. The cave was very unique and a fun diversion to get out of the sun for a bit. It sparkles inside! The river helped keep you cool so even though it was full sun the whole time it was not uncomfortable. The scenery along the way did not disappoint. We saw mountain goats, different types of ducks and even a few fish. A highlight was seeing a bald eagle fly over several times and seeing an eagle nest. We did this on our last day in Vegas to kill time because our flight did not leave until very late. Very glad we took the time to do this. We had a great time and highly recommend this tour and this group..
jaackerberg,May 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had a beautiful day. Would not go on a windy day. Need to fix their site. It states the tour starts at 11 AM and is 3 hours long. We found out that morning it started at 10AM - "Run Forrest Run" to pick up site at MGM :) and were then told at least 5 hours long. You might need to pay a National Park entrance fee so if you have your 7 day valid receipt from possibly visiting other National Park or Lifetime Pass bring it! It was beautiful, you have the opportunity to swim in the ice cold refreshing water. Met a lot of really nice people. Nice trip to get out of Vegas.
Felicia D,May 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
This was an awesome experience. The views were amazing. This was my first time kayaking and Preston was great! I definitely recommend this excursion.
Barb Z,May 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
We had a great experience. I highly recommend a tour for your first kayak adventure! We went as a family of 4. Our 17 & 19 year old daughters had kayaked once or twice before, but they handled the length of time great. The pace was perfect for our group. Our guide, Griff, was so kind and knowledgeable, I think everyone in our group got to spend some time chatting with him one on one, which made it very special. I'm glad we chose the first launch, the river was quiet and peaceful. Make sure to get breakfast in. We were almost late because we often eat a later breakfast, but decided to eat something - and that was the best decision, there were snacks and waters provided at about the halfway point. It started getting really hot midday, but the cool water of the river was an excellent reprieve, and there was a cool(ish) breeze every once in awhile. Make sure to pack a sun hat and sunscreen for your knees! Overall, the very early alarm was worth it. It was a delightful escape from the lights and noise of Las Vegas. If you drive yourself, you'll have plenty of time and energy to go to Hoover Dam afterwards. This tour was the absolute highlight of our trip. Worth every penny. I can't recommend it enough.


Operated by River Dogz