Gianni Santin
4 Hours - 5 Days
WILLOW BEACH RENTALS
Paddle into Black Canyon, explore the historic gauger's homesite, and kayak into Emerald Cave.
About the Experience
An option for both beginner or experienced paddlers, Willow Beach is a popular launching point for SUPs, kayaks and canoes. Go paddle for a day or spend a several days exploring the crystal green waters of the Colorado River.
Sit-on-top kayaks are the preferred boat in summer and for all skill levels. Beginners will find them easy to get on in the event of a capsize. Canoes are preferred for multi-day trips and you can even try a stand-up paddleboard if you feel adventurous!
The waters are crystal clear and you can often spot fish swimming in the water beneath your boat. Pack your lunch for some fun in the sun. Be sure to wear a bathing suit in summer months; the water temperatures are perfect for swimming.
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Meeting times at Willow Beach are daily at 10:30am, and takeout is 2:30pm daily. All times are Pacific time (Nevada not Arizona). Multi-day trips can launch at 10:30am or 3:30pm.
If you need sleeping bags, tents, or a stove, you can outfit your whole trip in our gear rentals section. Black Canyon paddlers staying overnight must carry:
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Map
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Water filter
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Portable human waste system
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Firepan (if having a fire)
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Firewood (if having a fire)
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Rope to tie up boats
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Food storage system (animal proof)
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Emergency plan
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Communication device (no cell service)
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If you have never paddled before, we highly recommend a guided tour for your first experience, or taking a kayak class before venturing out on your own.
ACTIVITIES & HIGHLIGHTS
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Paddling
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Hiking
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Swimming
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Wildlife and photography
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Fishing
DIFFICULTY
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Easy to moderate paddle
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Potential for strong winds
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Swift, cold, deep water
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4 to 6 miles
SKILL LEVEL
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Beginners welcome
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Able to perform capsize recovery
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Practice Leave No Trace ethics
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
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Able to fit into a 52" chest size PFD
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Recommend 14+ years and 100+ lbs to paddle solo
Packing Your Gear
Come prepared. You will be paddling in a harsh desert environment, with total exposure to the elements. Temperatures can vary greatly, so it is best to be prepared for all types of weather conditions. We have put together a recommended gear list for you, which will help keep you comfortable while enjoying the outdoors.
Packing List
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National Parks Pass or $25/car for the fee station
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Map
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Watch or timekeeping device
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First Aid kit (required)
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Rope
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AIS Sticker (if bringing own paddlecraft)
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Cash for souvenirs and tips
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Multi-day additions:
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Tent, sleeping bag, pad, pillow
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​Drybag (Rentals $10)
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Cooking equipment, fuel
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Kitchen tarp (required)
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Food storage system (animal proof)
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Garbage bags
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Firewood / Firepan (required)
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Wag Bags / Portable Toilet System (required)
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Emergency communication device
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Emergency Plan
Izzy Collett
IMPORTANT: It is your responsibility to know your own limits, be prepared, and make your own judgements about weather and risk. We offer insight to help you make a decision, but your safety is your responsibility. There is NO RESCUE SERVICE and you are responsible for abandoned or lost equipment. When you purchase this service, you are paying for equipment rental and delivery only. You should have capsize recovery skills, know how to deal with wind, waves, and weather, and be able to handle yourself in deep cold water. If this makes you nervous, we STRONGLY suggest a guided trip.
Joe Hjortshoj
Izzy Collett
RENTAL INCLUDES
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Kayak, Canoe, or SUP
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Paddle(s)
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PFD(s)
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Bowline
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Launch / Retrieval
DOES NOT INCLUDE
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Lake Mead Entrance Fee ($25/vehicle)
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Drybags (rentals $10)