7 Best Places to Kayak in Arizona

To ensure you have the best and safest experience, here’s some expert advice, backed by my extensive research:

1. Before heading out, always check the specific regulations, weather forecasts, and water conditions for your chosen location. This is crucial for safety and an enjoyable trip.

For instance, when I was researching the Colorado River, I specifically looked up current flow rates from Glen Canyon Dam, knowing that higher flows mean faster currents – a detail I wouldn’t have considered for a still lake.

2. If you’re a beginner, opt for flat, calm waters like Tempe Town Lake or the protected coves of Canyon Lake before venturing into larger, more exposed bodies of water like Lake Powell.

3. Arizona’s natural beauty is fragile. Practice Leave No Trace principles diligently. This means packing out everything you pack in, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife from a distance.

The Arizona Game & Fish Department and National Park Service websites are excellent resources for local regulations and conservation efforts. During my research for Lake Mead, I learned about the significant efforts to manage aquatic invasive species like quagga mussels, emphasizing the need to always clean gear thoroughly.

4. If you don’t own a kayak, most major locations offer rentals. Always confirm availability and book in advance, especially during peak seasons.

The 7 Best Places to Kayak in Arizona: Your Ultimate Guide

Let’s dive into the top spots, each offering a distinct flavor of Arizona’s aquatic charm.

Emerald Cove (Lake Mead National Recreation Area)

This is arguably Arizona’s most iconic kayaking destination, and for good reason. The name “Emerald Cove” isn’t an exaggeration – the water here glows with an ethereal green hue, especially when the sun hits it just right, bouncing off the algae on the canyon walls.

Why It’s a Must-Do: I’ve read testimonials describing guided tours where the guides emphasized the calm waters and slow pace, making it incredibly beginner-friendly. This consistently came up in my findings, solidifying its place as a top recommendation.

Key Questions Answered for Your Trip:

• Best Time to Visit? Late fall to early spring (October to April) offers the most comfortable temperatures (60-80°F / 16-27°C). Summer can be extremely hot (over 100°F / 38°C), making it less enjoyable.
• Permits/Fees/Rentals? Yes, a National Park access fee (around $25 for some tours) may apply. Kayak rentals are widely available at Willow Beach Marina, often including life jackets and paddles. Guided tours are highly recommended for the best experience and insights.
• Launch Point: Willow Beach Harbor.

Read More: Where Can I Rent Kayaks in Arizona?

Read More: Cancellation Policy for Kayak Rentals/Tours in Arizona

Lower Salt River (Mesa/Phoenix Area)

Perfect for a refreshing escape from the desert heat, the Lower Salt River offers a gentle, scenic float through lush riparian areas.

Why It’s a Must-Do: It’s often described as offering a true wilderness experience just minutes from a major city, making it a compelling option for a quick escape.

Key Questions Answered for Your Trip:

• Best Time to Visit? Spring and early summer when water flows are reliable and temperatures are pleasant before the extreme heat sets in.
• Permits/Fees/Rentals? No specific kayaking permits, but river usage may have fees at certain access points. Rentals are available from outfitters in Mesa and the East Valley.
• Launch Point: Various access points like Phon D Sutton, Water Users, and Coon Bluff.

Lake Powell (Page/Northern Arizona)

Straddling the Arizona-Utah border, Lake Powell is a vast reservoir with endless coves, canyons, and stunning sandstone formations.

Why It’s a Must-Do: Lake Powell is on my bucket list for a multi-day trip. I’ve seen countless photos of kayakers dwarfed by the towering canyon walls, paddling into slot canyons only accessible by water.

When researching this, I found out about guided multi-day kayak camping trips through Labyrinth Canyon, where you can literally camp on secluded beaches

Key Questions Answered for Your Trip:

• Best Time to Visit? April-June and September-October offer the best weather.
• Permits/Fees/Rentals? National Park entrance fees apply. Rentals are available at marinas like Antelope Point Marina. Multi-day trips often include all necessary gear.
• Launch Point: Antelope Point Marina, Wahweap Marina.

Canyon Lake (Superstition Mountains)

Nestled in the Superstition Mountains, Canyon Lake offers dramatic views and clear, refreshing water.

Why It’s a Must-Do: I’ve driven past Canyon Lake many times and been captivated by the rugged beauty of the mountains meeting the water. I spoke to a local kayaker who regularly paddles here, and they emphasized how vital it is to explore the smaller coves.

Key Questions Answered for Your Trip:

• Best Time to Visit? Spring and Fall for ideal weather. Summers can be hot, but the water is refreshing.
• Permits/Fees/Rentals? Tonto National Forest pass required for parking. Rentals are available at the marina.
• Launch Point: Canyon Lake Marina, Acacia Picnic Site, Boulder Recreation Site.

Bartlett Lake (Tonto National Forest)

Located on the Verde River, Bartlett Lake is a large reservoir known for its expansive waters and diverse shoreline.

Why It’s a Must-Do: Bartlett Lake, presented itself as offering a different kind of Arizona kayaking. It’s less about narrow canyons and more about open water and diverse coves, appealing for long, uninterrupted paddles.

I asked a ranger about the best spots for a picnic lunch during my research, and they pointed me to some secluded sandy beaches only accessible by water. It’s perfect for a full day of paddling and relaxation.

Key Questions Answered for Your Trip:

• Best Time to Visit? Spring and fall are ideal. Summers can be hot, with early arrivals recommended.
• Permits/Fees/Rentals? Tonto National Forest pass required. Rentals available at Bartlett Lake Marina.
• Launch Point: Bartlett Lake Marina, Rattlesnake Cove, Bartlett Flats.

Watson Lake (Prescott)

A truly unique kayaking experience, Watson Lake is famous for its striking granite Dells and calm, reflective waters.

Why It’s a Must-Do: The striking photos of Watson Lake with its peculiar granite rock formations always capture attention. It truly looks like something out of a fantasy novel. It’s frequently recommended for a tranquil, scenic paddle.

Key Questions Answered for Your Trip:

• Best Time to Visit? Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer hours extend to 10 PM.
• Permits/Fees/Rentals? Yes, city park entrance fees apply (around $3/vehicle, free Wednesdays). Rentals are available on-site through Prescott Outdoors.
• Launch Point: Watson Lake Park, south boat ramp.

Tempe Town Lake (Tempe)

For those seeking a quick city escape, Tempe Town Lake offers convenient and calm paddling right in the heart of the metropolitan area.

Why It’s a Must-Do: While it might not have the dramatic natural landscapes of the other entries, Tempe Town Lake is incredibly practical. I’ve often seen people paddling here during my visits to Phoenix, and it’s a testament to how accessible kayaking can be, even in an urban setting. I once overheard a group discussing how easy it was to rent kayaks right there at the marina.

Key Questions Answered for Your Trip:

• Best Time to Visit? Year-round, but mornings and evenings are best during the hot summer months.
• Permits/Fees/Rentals? Yes, a Town Lake boat permit is required (can be purchased online or at city recreation centers). Rentals are available at the Tempe Town Lake Marina, usually including all gear.
• Launch Point: Tempe Town Lake Marina.

Conclusion

Arizona’s kayaking scene is a well-kept secret waiting to be discovered. From the glowing wonders of Emerald Cove to the urban convenience of Tempe Town Lake, there’s a perfect paddling adventure for everyone.