Emerald Cave Kayak Tour in Black Canyon from Las Vegas
Paddle through stunning landscapes and discover desert wildlife on the Colorado River
Need a break from the city on your trip to Las Vegas? Reconnect with nature on a 5-mile kayak tour through Black Canyon on the Colorado River. Guided by an expert kayak guide, you'll paddle upstream, spotting desert wildlife like Desert Big Horn Sheep and Bald Eagles. Visit the historical Gauging Station and beautiful Emerald Cave. With snacks, water, and round-trip transport thats only an hour away you're sure to have a hassle-free journey into this natural oasis the whole family can enjoy.
- Meeting Point
- Willow Beach
- Gauging Station
- Wildlife Spottin
- Emerald Cave
- Short Hike
- Paddle Back to Willow Beach
- Ending Point
Begin your day with pick-up from Mandalay Bay Hotel, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow adventurers before being transported to Willow Beach, the starting point for your incredible 5-mile kayaking journey. After a briefing from your U.S. National Kayak Champion guide, you'll paddle upstream into the stunning Black Canyon, immersing yourself in the peaceful surroundings of the Colorado River. Along the way, you’ll be on the lookout for a variety of desert wildlife, including Bald Eagles, Desert Big Horn Sheep, and more. Your tour includes a stop at the historical Gauging Station, followed by a visit to the mesmerizing Emerald Cave, where the water glows in an otherworldly shade of green. Afterward, take a short hike to a historical site before enjoying healthy snacks and water. The tour concludes with a relaxing paddle back to Willow Beach and a return shuttle to Mandalay Bay Hotel, leaving you with memories of a truly unforgettable adventure.
Emerald Cave Kayak Tour in Black Canyon from Las Vegas Description
Your 6-hour tour includes:
Professional kayak guide
Fun for the whole family
Transportation from Mandalay Bay Hotel
Black Canyon with views of the Emerald Cave
Kayaks and life vests
Snacks and water
Views of desert wildlife and amazing photo opportunities
Small group size of 12
Meet Your Guide and Begin Your Adventure
Your day begins with a convenient pick-up from Mandalay Bay Hotel, where you'll meet your expert guide and fellow adventurers. After an hour long scenic drive, you'll arrive at Willow Beach, the gateway to a thrilling 5-mile kayak journey through the stunning Black Canyon on the Colorado River. Your guide, an expert kayaker will provide a quick briefing, getting you ready for the adventure ahead. From here, you'll paddle upstream toward the historic Gauging Station, built in 1935, which was meant to measure the level of the water right after the Hoover Dam was built. You’ll be gliding through tranquil waters framed by dramatic desert cliffs and a landscape that feels like another world.
Explore Desert Wildlife and Learn the History of the River
As you kayak, be on the lookout for the diverse wildlife that inhabits the canyon. The Colorado River is home to Desert Big Horn Sheep, Bald Eagles, Blue Herons, and more, perfectly camouflaged against the rugged canyon walls. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating stories about the river’s history, the Hoover Dam, and the area’s rich ecosystem, giving you a deeper understanding of the natural wonders you’re experiencing. And no visit to this unique part of the river would be complete without a stop at Emerald Cave, where the water glows with a mesmerizing green hue. It’s a highlight of the tour, offering a moment of awe and tranquility.
Historical Hike, Snacks, and Return to Willow Beach
After exploring the cave, take a short 5-6 minute hike to a nearby historical site, where you can stretch your legs and enjoy a refreshing break with healthy snacks, fresh fruit, and bottled water. This is the perfect time to take in the breathtaking surroundings and relax before heading back. On the return journey, the calm waters of the river offer a peaceful paddle, providing more opportunities to appreciate the beauty of the canyon and spot any wildlife you might have missed earlier. Your kayaking adventure wraps up with a scenic drive back to Mandalay Bay Hotel, where you’ll return in the afternoon, having experienced a memorable day full of nature, history, and serenity.
What you get with this tour
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Hat, sunglasses, sunblock, water shoe (no flip-flops!), layered clothing, swimsuit (under clothes) and great attitude.
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
This tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Las Vegas.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
This activity is not wheelchair accessible.
What happens if it rains?
We run our tours rain or shine. If the weather is extremely bad and we cannot proceed with the tour, we’ll inform you as soon as possible.
Is there a dress code to join this full-day tour?
We suggest wearing comfortable clothes, suitable for an active day. Please wear a swimsuit under your clothes, plan on getting a bit wet, and bring water shoes, no flip flops.
How much walking is involved in this tour?
This tour includes a short 5-7 minute hike to a lookout point. While the pace is gentle, you may have to navigate uneven terrain. Otherwise, you will be in a van or in the water on a kayak.
Is food and drinks included in the price of the tour?
Snacks, a granola bar, banana and water will be included. Anything additional is at your own expense.
What if I have food allergies, intolerances, or other dietary requirements?
Please contact us in advance so we can do our best to accommodate your needs. We will work with our tour partners to provide you with an alternative when possible.
Can I bring my kids, and do I have to pay for them?
Of course! This is a family friendly tour. While babies and toddlers up to two years old are free, all ages 3 and up will need to be paid for. If you have a child under 2, infant seats are available.
Does this tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup is not included on this tour. Please arrive 15 minutes before your departure time from Mandalay Bay Hotel.
Where does this tour end?
This tour ends back at Mandalay Bay Hotel. From here, our guides will be happy to point you in the direction of public transport, organize a taxi, or recommend things to do nearby.
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