5.0 (1.4 k) · Las Vegas · By Blazin Paddles LLC Free cancellation Special offer Likely to sell out
Paddle emerald-green waters and venture into the famous Emerald Cave, surrounded by the dramatic cliffs of Black Canyon—all just a short drive from Las Vegas.
With expert guides, beginner-friendly kayaks, and all gear, snacks, and bottled water provided, you get a hassle-free adventure.
Wildlife sightings, stunning scenery, and seamless hotel pick-up make this an unforgettable way to experience the untamed Colorado River up close.
✓ Bottled water✓ National Park fees✓ Snacks✓ All necessary kayak equipment✓ Professional Guide✓ Hotel pickup and drop-off from select Las Vegas Strip hotels✓ Guided Kayak Tour to Emerald Cave✕ Gratuities✕ Personal gear (dry bags, water shoes, etc.) May be available for purchase before tour at office.Activity Schedule
3 h
Begin your day with convenient hotel pick-up from select Las Vegas Strip locations and travel in comfort aboard a Mercedes Sprinter to Willow Beach—the launch point for your kayaking adventure.
After a quick safety briefing and gear fitting, paddle into the stunning Black Canyon, where sheer cliffs and narrow waterways set the stage for unforgettable exploration.
On this fully guided 4-mile out-and-back eco-tour, you’ll discover the glowing waters of Emerald Cave, visit a historic overlook with panoramic views of the Colorado River, and get an up-close look at a 100-year-old river gauging station.
Keep watch for native wildlife such as Desert Bighorn Sheep, Bald Eagles, and Coyotes, while your expert guide shares fascinating stories about the river's history and significance.
This beginner-friendly experience includes complimentary snacks and bottled water, making it a perfect outdoor escape from the Las Vegas heat.
Pick up times can start up to 2 hours before the tour.
Willow Beach The Colorado River
Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking
The operator is located inside the Hoover Dam Lodge. If you wish to bypass the shuttle and meet directly at the river you can do so, but the national park will require a fee of $25 per vehicle if you don't have a national park pass. Please enquire if you would like this option
The operator is located inside the Hoover Dam Lodge. If you wish to bypass the shuttle and meet directly at the river you can do so, but the national park will require a fee of $25 per vehicle if you don't have a national park pass. Please enquire if you would like this option
Pickups start almost 2 hours before the launch time of the tour. The complimentary shuttle picks up at select hotels on the Las Vegas Strip. Please ensure you are on time to your given location out of respect to other guests on tour. Failure to be on time could result in a loss of the tour without refund.
These specified hotels have quick and easy access for the shuttle to get through the busy strip, so you can spend less time in traffic and more time on the river!
Travelers may also meet at the office located inside The Hoover Dam Lodge Casino. There is free parking and is last to be picked up and first to be dropped off from the shuttle.
Travelers may meet at launch destination (25804 Willow Beach Rd, Willow Beach, AZ 86445) *National Park vehicle entrance fee is $25 (payable direct to the National Park Service)
Pick-up will take place 1.5 to 2 hours before the tour start time. (Total duration with half day tour is 5-6 hours, round-trip with pick-up and drop-off from approved Las Vegas hotels on the Strip).
Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated/show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, you will not be entitled to a refund.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries Suitable for all physical fitness levels Pick up time starts up to 2 hours before tour time. Swimsuits, layers, and closed toe water shoes are strongly advised. No lockers provided. Recommended to protect any electronics from water. Dry bags, waterproof phone cases, and other last minute needs are available for purchase at our office location. Requires some athletic ability but good for all skill levels. SELECT hotel pick-ups are offered for this tour. The local operator will help organize the closest pick up if your hotel is not on the list. Operates in all weather. Please dress appropriately Half Day Kayak Tour Duration: 3 hours Snacks and water: Light snacks (cookies, crackers, granola bars, etc.) and bottled water is included. Mercedes Sprinter Van: Silver Mercedes Sprinter van with Blazin Paddles logo on the sides. Half Day: Half-day Tour (4-miles/6.4km round-trip): After hotel pickup you will arrive at Willow Beach where your guide will get you prepared for the day ahead. After you are fitted into your kayaks you'll star Pickup included Book in advance, especially during peak season. Arrive at your pickup location on time to avoid missing the tour. Dress in layers and wear closed-toe water shoes. Protect your electronics from water; consider purchasing a dry bag. Stay hydrated; bottled water is provided, but you may want to bring extra. Be prepared for potential wildlife sightings. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 39939P2
Activity offered by Blazin Paddles LLC via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Adventure seekers Nature lovers Kayaking enthusiasts Visitors looking for an escape from the Las Vegas heat Explore the stunning Black Canyon by kayak. Discover the unique Emerald Cave. See native wildlife like Desert Bighorn Sheep and Bald Eagles. Enjoy a guided tour with expert commentary. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from the Las Vegas Strip.
Population 641,903 (2020)
Elevation 610 m
Currency United States dollar
Driving on the right
Power plugs A, B · 120 V
Emergency number 911
Capital city Washington, D.C. Average temperatures 8° Jan 10° Feb 14° Mar 18° Apr 24° May 30° Jun 34° Jul 32° Aug 28° Sept 20° Oct 13° Nov 7° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the duration of the kayak tour? + The kayak tour itself is 3 hours long. The total duration including pick-up and drop-off can be 5-6 hours.
What should I wear for the kayak tour? + Swimsuits, layers, and closed-toe water shoes are strongly advised. It's recommended to protect any electronics from water.
Is hotel pickup included? + Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from select Las Vegas Strip hotels is included. Pickups start up to 2 hours before the tour time.
What if I want to meet directly at the launch point? + You can meet directly at the launch destination (25804 Willow Beach Rd, Willow Beach, AZ 86445). However, a National Park vehicle entrance fee of $25 per vehicle will apply if you do not have a National Park pass.
Is this tour suitable for beginners? + Yes, this is a beginner-friendly experience that requires some athletic ability but is good for all skill levels.
Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.
★★★★★ Viator review
Great Way to See More Than Just The Strip
dionysus1769, October 2026
This is a great day/mid-day trip for anyone that is reasonably active and likes being outdoors.The scenery is fantastic, the guide is very knowledgeable and shares interesting bits of history and nature as well as safety. Groups are small and you move at a manageable pace. There is no real hurry. We went in early October so the weather was perfect! Absolutely recommend for a day away from the lights and the hustle of The Strip!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
The Best Day of our 7-Day Vegas Trip!
kathleentbikeandski, October 2026
The Emerald Cave and Black Canyon Tour was hands down the BEST day we had during our 7-day stay in Vegas! If I could give this tour more than 5 stars, I absolutely would. The scenery was breathtaking, the experience was unforgettable, and everything was made even better by our amazing tour guide, Chelsea!
Chelsea was the absolute BEST! She was so friendly, knowledgeable, and informative, making the entire experience fun and enjoyable. She went above and beyond by sharing a bunch of photos with us at the end of the day, which was such a thoughtful touch and gave us wonderful memories to look back on.
This tour was truly a highlight of our entire trip, and we can’t recommend it enough! Our only regret is that we didn’t sign up for the full-day tour. We definitely will next time! If you’re visiting Vegas and considering this excursion, DO IT! And if you’re lucky enough to have Chelsea as your guide, you’re in for an amazing day! T
★★★★★ Viator review
Do a full day instead
Anya_D, October 2026
What a beautiful place to paddle. My only disappointment was how short it was (yes I only signed up for the half day so that's on me). Would love to come back and explore with my paddleboard as an overnighter or even multiple night stay. Nico was great and made the trip so much fun especially with the "water guns" 🤣. She was also informative with the tidbits around wildlife and ecosystem along with info on Hoover Dam
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Incredible time
L1007LLgiovannim, October 2026
Really fun and amazing experience. Seth is an incredible tour guide who made the experience more memorable with his personality. This was my first time ever kayaking and i could not have picked a better place to book with.
★★★★★ Viator review
Yay team go
Dianna_A, October 2026
Easy and fun. The cave itself was tiny but the trip was doable for a not so fit 67 year old. We were given good instructions on where to meet.
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