Emerald Cave Kayak Tour - Kayak the Colorado River near Las Vegas
Paddle through the towering volcanic canyon walls of the Colorado River and explore the stunning Emerald Lake. This peaceful guided adventure offers a relaxing pace, wildlife sightings, and plenty of photo-worthy views. Small group sizes ensure a personal, crowd-free experience in nature—just a short drive from Las Vegas.
Options
10:30am - Emerald Cave Tour
Air Conditioned Shuttle: Complimentary A/C shuttle for groups of 6+ (when available). Most guests choose to self-drive for added flexibility
Swimming + Short Hike: Tour includes opportunities to swim, wade, or explore by foot. Short hike leads to a scenic overlook for photos and rest.
Certified Kayak Guides: Our guides are nationally certified and trained for safety, first aid, and guest experience—well beyond local park standards.
Duration: 3 hours: Approximately 3 to 3.5 hours total tour time. Kayaking, hiking, snacking, and photo opportunities are included.
Light Lunch + Bottled Water: Includes cold bottled water and a sealed snack pack (chips, granola bar, fruit, and trail mix). Perfect mid-tour refresh.
Black Canyon, Cave Stop: Paddle through the stunning Black Canyon with a scenic cave stop. Route includes emerald waters, beaches, and photo spots.
Kayak: Guests choose between premium single or tandem kayaks. Tandems (double kayak) are highly recommended to reduce fatigue.
Complimentary Photos: Free digital photos included—captured by your guide and shared after your experience before end of day.
What's included in Emerald Cave Kayak Tour - Kayak the Colorado River near Las Vegas
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Escape the chaos of the Strip with this top-rated guided kayak tour to Emerald Cave. Rated 5.0 by over 700 guests and voted one of the best outdoor activities in Las Vegas, this 3–3.5 hour adventure covers 4.5 miles (7.2 km) round trip through the peaceful emerald waters of Black Canyon. Along the way, you’ll stop at a historic gauging station and explore the iconic Emerald Cave (access 95% guaranteed unless overcrowded). Your nationally certified guide will share the area’s history, wildlife, and hidden highlights—all while ensuring a safe, scenic, and relaxing experience. Everything is included: high-end kayaks, dry bags, waterproof phone cases, snacks, bottled water, sun hats (loaned), and complimentary digital photos. Guests consistently say this tour is “the highlight of our trip” thanks to its relaxing pace, stunning views, and exceptional service. Enjoy personalized attention with a maximum of 12 guests per guide, and explore the Colorado River with premium gear and expert storytelling.
Inclusions
- Premium kayaking gear: paddle, vest, dry bag, bilge pump
- Safety-certified guide (Wilderness First Aid, CPR, ACA Level II)
- Single or tandem kayak (based on selection)
- Light snacks, bottled water, and optional sun hat (loaned)
- Complimentary digital photos
- Professionally guided kayak tour (3–3.5 hours, 4.5 mi / 7.2 km)
- Gratuities (optional)
- National Park entrance fee ($25 per vehicle, includes parking)
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Emotional support animals, pets, or service animals are not permitted on guided tours (per federal ADA guidelines). For guests with service animals, please inquire about rental options instead.
- All participants must complete the online waiver at least 24 hours in advance. Failure to do so may result in cancellation without refund.
- We gladly make reasonable accommodations for guests with disabilities. Please contact us prior to booking so we can support your experience appropriately.
- Not recommended for guests who are pregnant or have heart, back, respiratory, recent surgeries, or other serious medical conditions.
- Maximum weight per person: 260 lb / 118 kg / 18 st. - Tandem kayak combined weight limit: 550 lb / 250 kg / 39 st.
- Looking for an easier option? Try our beginner-friendly Scenic Escape tour (2.2 mile round trip vs 4.5 miles), or inquire about shuttle availability for added comfort.
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- Meet your guide 15–20 minutes early at the Paddlecraft Launch Area at Willow Beach. Look for the EZ Kayak setup by the main ramp. Uber/Lyft— not available for the area and there is no cell service. Free parking included with park entry. Late arrivals may forfeit the tour.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
All participants must complete the online waiver at least 24 hours in advance. Failure to do so may result in cancellation without refund.