Colorado River Canoeing

Colorado River Canoeing Trip
Hoover Dam to Willow Beach
Black Canyon, Arizona–Nevada

Overview

Colorado River through Black Canyon is one of the most unique paddle routes in the Southwest. Launching directly below Hoover Dam places you immediately into a steep, volcanic canyon with cold, dam-released water, natural hot springs, and complete isolation despite being minutes from Las Vegas.

This section is ideal for a two-night canoe or packraft trip. It is remote enough to feel wild but controlled enough to be manageable for experienced paddlers who plan correctly.

Route Details

Standard route runs from the base of Hoover Dam to Willow Beach Marina.

Distance approximately 12 miles one way
Typical duration two to three days with camping
Current controlled by dam releases

Some parties extend beyond Willow Beach into Lake Mohave, but wind exposure increases significantly past the marina and is not recommended for open canoes unless conditions are stable.

Permits and Access

Launching below Hoover Dam requires coordination with the National Park Service.

Permits are required for river access and must be secured in advance. Launch access is typically via commercial shuttle or guided transport down to the river since public pedestrian access below the dam is restricted.

There is no casual walk-down launch. This is a controlled corridor.

Camping permits are required and campsites are designated. Dispersed camping is not allowed.

Water Conditions and Temperature

Water released from Hoover Dam remains cold year-round, typically in the low 50s Fahrenheit.

Cold shock is a real risk. Personal flotation devices are mandatory and should be worn at all times on the water.

Despite desert air temperatures, immersion hypothermia is possible even in summer.

Boat Selection and Setup

Expedition-capable canoes only.

High-volume hulls with secured flotation are essential. Every item must be tied in. A single capsize can end the trip.

Dry bags should be double-layered. Cold water and splash zones are constant.

Campsites and Terrain

Camps are typically located on narrow beaches or gravel benches above the waterline.

Wind funnels through Black Canyon, especially in the afternoon. Campsites must be selected with wind protection in mind.

Sand anchors or rock-weighted guy lines are mandatory. Stakes alone are ineffective.

Hot Springs and Notable Features

Black Canyon is famous for its natural hot springs, which emerge directly from canyon walls.

Goldstrike Hot Springs, Arizona Hot Springs, and smaller unnamed springs appear along the route. These provide rare opportunities to warm up mid-trip.

Caution is required. Some springs are extremely hot at the source and must be mixed with river water before entry.

Wildlife and Environment

Bighorn sheep, bald eagles, and waterfowl are commonly seen.

The canyon walls amplify sound and heat. Sun exposure is constant, and reflected heat off dark volcanic rock is intense.

Shade is scarce. Long sleeves and sun protection are not optional.

Water and Food Strategy

River water must be treated before consumption.

Silt levels are lower here than in other Colorado River sections, but filtration systems should still be robust.

Plan one to one and a half gallons per person per day minimum.

Food must be secured against rodents. Campsites show clear evidence of persistent scavengers.

Human Waste Management

Pack-out systems are required.

No catholes. No burying waste. Compliance is strictly enforced.

Smuggling Corridor Fun Fact

Fun fact. This stretch of the Colorado River has historically been used by smugglers moving contraband south toward Mexico. The isolation, winding canyon walls, and water access made it an effective low-visibility corridor long before modern surveillance. While today the area is heavily monitored, the geography that once made it attractive for smuggling remains obvious when paddling through the canyon.

Safety and Emergency Planning

There is no cell service.

A satellite communicator is strongly recommended.

Emergency exits are limited and often require climbing steep canyon walls.

Weather shifts quickly. Wind can turn calm water into a grind within minutes.

Shuttle and Take-Out Logistics

Willow Beach Marina is the standard take-out.

Arrange vehicle shuttles in advance or use a commercial service. Do not rely on rideshare or marina availability.

Strong afternoon headwinds are common near Willow Beach. Plan to reach the take-out early in the day if possible.