South Bound Paddle
Not interested in the Emerald Cave and want to explore more of the Colorado River near Las Vegas? Join us on this educational kayak trip of discovery! Perfect during busy times like holidays to avoid the large crowds!
3 hour educational kayak tour
2 miles roundtrip paddle
2 mile roundtrip hike
we provide the snacks and equipment
visit historic landmarks
relax on a private beach
chance to spot desert wildlife
Kayak Lake Mead is the first, and probably the only, outfitter to offer this flat water roundtrip paddle and hiking adventure. On this trip you will go south from Willow Beach in the opposite direction of the Emerald Cove. The distances are surprisingly short—only two miles in total of paddling, and only two miles in total of hiking. But this short hike is adventurous!
A Journey Through Time and Nature
As you set out on your kayak, you’ll immediately notice the vibrant algae-tinted water that gives this part of the river its unique charm. The two-mile flat water paddle downriver is not just a physical journey but a voyage through history. Our knowledgeable guides will point out various historical artifacts and share intriguing stories about the river’s past. One of the highlights of the tour is the exploration of Queho Cave, named after the infamous renegade Indian whose legacy still echoes through the canyon.
Wind Speed Color
Discover the Untold Secrets of the Black Canyon
Queho’s life was one of survival and mystery. Queho was an outcast, a renegade Indian, a mass murderer, and the subject of much local speculation and colorful history. A survivor who evaded capture by numerous posses for almost 30 years.
As you paddle around hidden coves and hike through the areas he once roamed, you’ll get a sense of the harsh yet beautiful desert experience that shaped his life. The cave, tucked away from the main paths, offers a glimpse into the rugged existence of this elusive figure. It’s a unique opportunity to step back in time and imagine the canyon as it was a century ago.
Experience the Natural Splendor
Beyond its historical sites, the South Bound Paddle tour showcases the natural beauty of the Black Canyon. The secluded shores and hidden sandy beaches are a stark contrast to the more popular and crowded spots like Emerald Cove. Here, you can enjoy the tranquility of nature, far from the hustle and bustle of more frequented destinations.
The tour provides ample opportunities to witness the region’s amazing desert wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic Bald Eagles soaring above or the nimble Big-Horn sheep navigating the rocky cliff views. These incredible wildlife sightings add an element of breathtaking beauty to the trip, making it an unforgettable experience for wildlife viewing.
A Perfect Escape for All
Whether you’re a bunch of kayak newbies, have some basic kayaking experience or an amateur kayaker, the South Bound Paddle tour is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all experience levels. The short distances make it manageable, while the varied landscapes and rich history ensure there’s always something to capture your interest.
For those looking to extend their incredible experience and visit the scenic overlook of the Queho cave, there’s a two-mile round-trip hike. This short hike is filled with scenic views and even more historical insights. It’s an excellent way to stretch your legs and immerse yourself further in the canyon’s beauty on this amazing adventure.
A Relaxing Interlude
At any point in the paddle, you’ll have the chance to stop at a secluded beach. This is the perfect spot to relax, refuel with the provided snacks, and perhaps take a refreshing dip in the cool water. It’s a moment of peace and relaxation, allowing you to fully appreciate the stunning beauty before paddling back to Willow Beach Marina.
An Unforgettable Adventure
The South Bound Paddle tour is more than just a kayak trip; it’s an adventure that blends history, nature, and relaxation into one unforgettable experience. By steering clear of the crowded Emerald Cove, this tour offers a more intimate and personal exploration of the Black Canyon. It’s a chanc5-6e to connect with nature, uncover hidden stories, and create lasting memories. The inclusion of kayak, paddle, life-vest, and snacks means you only need to bring your sense of kayak adventure.
Here are some good articles and links to learn more about the Queho Cave.
What To Expect on Your South Bound Paddle Kayak Tour
When you get to Willow Beach Rd, to enter Lake Mead National Park, you might have to pay the national park entry fee, or you can present your national park pass if you have one.
Show up early enough to give yourself time to visit the Willow Beach Marina store and grab some extra snacks or water if you haven't already.
Right across from the store are some decent bathrooms. You can use these before you start your way over to Kayak Beach, the paddle craft launch area you saw on the way in.
Be at Kayak Beach 15 minutes before the launch time so we can get you comfortable in your PFD (Personal Floatation Device) and go over a quick safety and paddle talk.
When you board your single or tandem kayak, place one foot in front of the seat, then sit down before bringing your second foot in.
The last step for getting in your kayak is adjusting your footrests so that you are comfortable throughout the entire experience.
Once everyone is in a kayak and ready to go we paddle together down the crystal-clear waters of the Colorado River, with incredible sights around every bend.
Sometimes you can spot amazing desert wildlife such as bighorn sheep, different types of water fowl, or the elusive bald eagle.
When we reach the beach for Queho cave, we will get out of the kayaks, relax on a private beach, re-fuel on some healthy snacks and maybe go for a swim.
If you're up for the challenging excursion of hiking two miles to a historic landmark with unforgettable views, we'll reach a fantastic photo opportunity and an awe-inspiring view of the location that Queho once called home.
After taking a well-deserved break, we get back in our kayaks and finish the final leg of our exciting journey back to where we started at Kayak Beach.
We take complimentary photos throughout the journey to help share your everlasting memories and will share them with you via a Google Drive link.
