Las Vegas Kayak Outfitter, Blazin’ Paddles

blazin' paddles kayaks

Nevada-based kayak outfitter, Blazin’ Paddles, does one thing and does it well—they take their guests kayaking on the Black Canyon stretch of the Colorado River.

This 12-mile stretch of the Colorado between Hoover Dam and Willow Beach gives you plenty of the Southwest’s dramatic scenery and wildlife, as well as a bottom-up view of the dam, one of America’s engineering wonders.

Part of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Black Canyon is a designated wilderness area. It’s known for its high cliffs and rock formations, crystal clear waters and wildlife.

blazin paddles kayak tour

Blazin’ Paddles Black Canyon Kayak Tours

You have four tour options when you kayak with Blazin’ Paddles:

  • Half-Day Tour with shuttle service to and from Las Vegas. Your on-water time is about 3 hours with 5-6 hours total with pick up and drop off. 4 miles of kayaking.
  • Half-Day Tour without shuttle service. You’ll meet your professional guide at Willow Beach. This tour includes about 3 hours on the water, 4 miles of kayaking.
  • Twilight Paddle. After 2 miles of kayaking you’ll stop to watch the sunset on the Colorado River while you toast marshmallows at a campfire. About 4 hours total, including shuttle service.
  • Full Day Tour with shuttle service to and from Las Vegas. This is the ultimate experience. Launch at the base of Hoover Dam and kayak for 12 miles, with a stop along the way at some natural hot springs. This challenging tour includes 6-7 hours on the water, often paddling into a headwind, so it’s best for those in good physical shape! (Even though it’s on a river, there’s no current to speak of on this stretch.)

PRO TIP: For the most peaceful and quiet experience, plan your trip for a Sunday or Monday when motor boats aren’t allowed on this section of the river.

There’s a very thorough FAQ page on their website for your questions.

blazin paddles hoover dam kayak tour

About Blazin’ Paddles

Blazin’ Paddles owner, Ryan Borup, told us: “Blazin Paddles was founded in 2016, with just a couple employees. Over the last 5 years we have grown to almost 20 employees and have the pleasure of taking up to 15,000 people annually on the river.”

With 5-star reviews on both Yelp and Tripadvisor, it’s no wonder their guests keep coming! One wrote: “This is the second time we've taken a tour with Blazin' Paddles, and it was even better than the first! If I could give six stars I would!”

They use top-quality gear and hire professional guides who have wilderness first aid and water rescue training. Their dedicated to a high level of customer service from the time you book your tour to drop-off back in Vegas.

And every boat includes a water shooter (a big squirt gun)—a refreshing addition to their 100+ degree summer days. How fun is that?

Ryan said, “As we have grown, so has the stress, but I constantly remind myself that the worst day on the river is the best day in an office.”

blazin paddles kayak tour colorado river

For all the details about Blazin’ Paddles and their tours, go to their website. You’ll also find them on Facebook and Instagram.

(All photos courtesy of Blazin’ Paddles)

We want to help you find the paddle that’s right for you! Contact our friendly Customer Service team today: 715-755-3405 • [email protected]

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