Las Vegas Hot Springs, Kayaking, Hiking, From Base of Hoover Dam!

Planning a day that balances outdoor adventure with stunning natural beauty? This tour offers a mix of kayaking, hiking, and relaxing in geothermal hot springs—all just a short trip from the buzzing Las Vegas Strip. It’s a perfect escape for those who want to step outside the neon lights and into the rugged scenery of southern Nevada.

What we love about this experience is how it combines active pursuits with tranquil moments—there’s a real sense of variety and discovery. We also appreciate that all necessary gear is provided, removing the hassle of sourcing your own equipment. However, keep in mind that the tour is physically moderate—so if you’re not quite up for some movement, it might be worth considering. This trip suits adventurous travelers craving authentic landscapes and wildlife sightings, as well as those who simply want to enjoy a different side of Nevada’s natural charm.

Key Points

• Combines kayaking, hiking, and hot springs for a well-rounded outdoor day
• All equipment and lunch are included, offering good value
• Small group of up to 15 ensures personal attention
• Guided by knowledgeable, enthusiastic guides
• Moderate physical activity, suitable for most healthy travelers
• Stunning views of Black Canyon, Emerald Cave, and geothermal pools

An Introduction to the Adventure

If you’re looking to swap the bright lights and busy casinos of Las Vegas for some genuine outdoor fun, this tour might be just what you need. It’s designed for those who want a day of exploration—kayaking in the Black Canyon, hiking to geothermal hot springs, and enjoying delicious snacks along the way. While it’s not a leisurely stroll, it’s manageable for most with a moderate fitness level.

What makes this trip stand out is how it offers a full day of activity while still keeping things comfortable and organized. The fact that all kayaking equipment is included means you won’t waste time hunting down gear or worrying about technical details. Plus, the small group setup ensures you get plenty of attention from your guide, whether you’re paddling or admiring the stunning scenery.

On the downside, weather can influence the experience—if conditions turn rough or stormy, the activity might be altered or canceled. That’s a typical consideration for outdoor adventures, but the company’s policy to reschedule or refund if weather is poor gives some peace of mind. This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy being active, love nature, and appreciate guides who know their stuff. It’s a fantastic way to see a less-visited side of Nevada with a small, friendly group.

What You’ll Experience Step-by-Step

Meeting Point and Departure

The adventure begins at the Hoover Dam Lodge and Casino, conveniently located on US-93 in Boulder City. This spot is familiar to many travelers passing through, and it’s easy to find. Arriving here, you’ll meet your guide, who will give a brief safety overview and introduce the day’s itinerary.

The Kayaking Journey

The core of this tour is an approximately 12-mile kayaking trip in the Black Canyon. You’ll paddle through the calm waters, surrounded by striking rock formations and scenic vistas. Reviewers often mention that guides like Ryan make the experience enjoyable with their knowledge and friendly attitude. As one enthusiast shared, “The tour was well-organized and filled with adventure. The guide, Ryan, was extremely knowledgeable and provided an informative yet fun experience.”

The kayaking itself is described as challenging but rewarding—perfect for those with some paddling experience or a desire to push a little. The calm river conditions and expert guidance help make it accessible, but be prepared for a workout if you’re not used to paddling for a few hours.

Exploring the Black Canyon and Emerald Cave

The route takes you past notable landmarks like Emerald Cave—a highlight for many. The clear waters and vibrant surroundings create a sense of wonder. Several reviews praise the scenic beauty, with one saying, “The scenery was absolutely beautiful,” and another noting that they saw wildlife like eagles and mountain sheep.

Hiking to Hot Springs

After your paddle, you’ll hike to geothermal hot springs—a feature that’s incredibly popular. The walk itself is described as short and manageable, with some reviewers praising the “great walks to the hot springs,” and noting how the scenery makes the trek enjoyable. The hot springs are a highlight, especially in cooler months when the geothermal pools feel even more invigorating.

Relaxing in the Geothermal Pools

Once at the hot springs, you can soak and relax in warm water, often remarking as a perfect wind-down after the physically engaging parts of the day. One guest called it their “fave part,” and many mention how peaceful and rejuvenating it is.

Lunch and Refreshments

A catered lunch with juice, water, and snacks is included, providing much-needed fuel and hydration. Having this nourishment is appreciated by guests, especially after paddling and hiking. The value-added aspect of included food and drinks is a big plus, making the tour more economical than piecing together meals independently.

Guides and Group Size

The small-group nature (up to 15 travelers) shines through in reviews praising guides like Ryan, Chris, and Ashley for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to keep the group moving without feeling rushed. This intimate setup allows for personalized attention, questions, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Physical Demands and Suitability

Most reviews mention that the tour is moderate in physical effort—suitable for those with a decent fitness level. Paddling for hours and hiking a short distance are involved, but it’s manageable with a little preparation. Travelers should be comfortable with being active and outdoors in varied weather conditions.

Duration and Logistics

The full experience lasts about 7 hours, from start to finish. This includes travel time, paddling, hiking, and relaxing in the hot springs. The timing makes it a good full-day option but not overly exhausting. Transportation from the meeting point is straightforward, and the tour is designed to maximize outdoor time without feeling rushed.

Authentic Perspectives from Fellow Travelers

Guests frequently praise the guides, describing them as “extremely knowledgeable” and “awesome,” with one reviewer, Michelle, emphasizing how much she appreciated Ashley’s guidance. The scenery gets rave reviews too, with mentions of “beautiful views,” “hot springs,” and wildlife sightings like eagles and foxes.

Several guests describe the experience as “unforgettable,” with one calling it their “best trip ever.” Such glowing feedback highlights how well the tour delivers on adventure, scenery, and personal attention.

Analyzing the Cost and Value

Priced at $289 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day in nature with all equipment, lunch, water, and snacks included. Considering the cost of renting kayaks, guides, and meals independently, the package provides good value for what it delivers: active outdoor fun in a stunning setting, guided by experts.

The small-group format and well-organized itinerary ensure you get quality time and personalized advice. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but for a full day of adventure with experienced guides, the price is reasonable—especially when you factor in the included amenities.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes suitable for hiking and kayaking.
• Bring sun protection—hat, sunglasses, sunscreen—as you’ll spend much of the day outdoors.
• Be prepared for some physical activity; a moderate fitness level is recommended.
• Arrive early at the meeting point for a smooth start.
• Remember, cancellations due to weather are possible, but the tour offers rescheduling or full refunds if needed.
• This experience is best in cooler months when the hot springs are especially soothing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure suits travelers craving a break from Las Vegas’s bright lights and looking to experience nature in an active way. It’s perfect for those who enjoy paddling, hiking, wildlife viewing, and relaxing in geothermal pools. The guided element makes it accessible, even if you’re not a seasoned outdoors person.

If you’re after a memorable, authentic outdoor outing with a small group and knowledgeable guides, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to see the impressive Black Canyon, enjoy some wildlife sightings, and soak in hot springs—all in one rewarding day.

This tour isn’t ideal if you’re seeking a luxury experience or prefer a more leisurely, less physically demanding outing. But for active travelers who want a genuine adventure that’s well-organized and highly praised, it’s a standout option.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most healthy travelers with a moderate fitness level, children should be comfortable with paddling and hiking. Check with the provider for age restrictions or specific advice.

What should I wear for the day?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, including quick-drying layers and sturdy shoes for hiking, is recommended. Don’t forget sun protection and a hat.

Is kayaking equipment provided?
Yes, all necessary kayaking gear—including kayak, paddle, and safety equipment—is included, so you don’t need to bring your own.

How long is the paddling portion?
The kayaking segment is approximately 12 miles long, which is considered a good challenge but manageable with guidance and some paddling experience.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour can run year-round, many guests find the cooler months more enjoyable, especially for hot springs soaking.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. The company offers full refunds or alternative dates if that happens.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Nevada’s natural beauty, combining active pursuits with relaxing moments in hot springs. For those eager to see a different landscape, breathe in fresh air, and enjoy some wildlife, it’s a memorable way to spend a day outside the Vegas glow.