About this experience
Experience two iconic adventures near Las Vegas in one seamless day, beginning with panoramic Hoover Dam views from the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge before you kayak the Colorado River from Willow Beach through spectacular Black Canyon.
You’ll experience Emerald Cave with a team backed by more than 20 years of experience on the river, with expert guidance, premium touring kayaks, scenic and historic stops, complimentary photos taken by your guide, and a freshly catered riverside lunch at a leisurely pace.
With more time to slow down and take in the canyon, you’ll enjoy a thoughtfully guided combination of Hoover Dam sightseeing and an immersive Emerald Cave kayak adventure.
At a glance
- Duration: 6 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 6 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What is included
- Entry to the Hoover Dam facility
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Lunch
- Certified Guide
- Kayaks, paddles and life-vest
Not included
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
Your adventure begins with pickup from select Las Vegas Strip hotels before heading to Hoover Dam, where you’ll walk the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge for panoramic views nearly 900 feet above the Colorado River. From there, continue to Willow Beach, Arizona, where your guide provides a beginner-friendly kayaking orientation before you launch onto the calm, clear waters of the Colorado River.
You’ll paddle through the towering walls of Black Canyon toward the famous Emerald Cave, where sunlight can illuminate the water in brilliant shades of green. Along the way, explore scenic and historic stops. Watch for desert wildlife such as bighorn sheep and bald eagles while hearing stories that bring the history of the Colorado River and Black Canyon to life.
Midway through your kayak adventure, slow down and relax on a scenic river beach while enjoying a freshly catered lunch surrounded by the canyon. After lunch, continue exploring the Colorado River before returning to Willow Beach, completing a memorable day that brings together Hoover Dam sightseeing, Emerald Cave kayaking, and the natural beauty of Black Canyon—all within easy reach of Las Vegas.
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- Hotel pickup times: Venetian- 8:00 am Bellagio- 8:10 am Mandalay Bay- 8:20 am Shuttles generally arrive back to the Las Vegas Strip between 4:30 and 5:00 PM depending on traffic Please have your cellular phone on and available, your guide will call you the morning of your tour.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Evolution Expeditions
Accessibility and practical details
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- We offer single or tandem (2 seater) kayaks. Please specify which kayak you would prefer.
- Message us if you need a 2XL or larger life vest
- The Emerald Cave is a small cutout of the mountain for a great photo op!
- We will stop at the Hoover Dam facility for photos and history
- Pickup times are: Venetian 8:10, Bellagio 8:20, Mandalay Bay 8:30
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
What are the pickup arrangements?
Venetian- 8:00 am
Bellagio- 8:10 am
Mandalay Bay- 8:20 am
Shuttles generally arrive back to the Las Vegas Strip between 4:30 and 5:00 PM depending on traffic
Please have your cellular phone on and available, your guide will call you the morning of your tour.
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What is the cancellation policy?
Traveller reviews and photos
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