Black Canyon: Southwest’s only National Water Trail

Black Canyon Water Trail consists of a 30-mile stretch of the Colorado River flowing from the Hoover Dam to Eldorado Canyon, a historic mining area on the shores of Lake Mojave. The trail offers spectacular paddling and boating experiences unlike any you will find anywhere else in the Southwestern United States.

Black Canyon is one of more than a dozen water trails that make up the National Water Trails System. This system was established in 2012 to conserve natural areas along waterways and make it easier for outdoor enthusiasts to access recreational opportunities on the water and its shorelines.

Designated a National Water Trail in 2014, Black Canyon is the first trail located in the Southwest and the only waterway in the system that flows through a desert environment.

The Bureau of Reclamation and Lake Mead National Recreational Area share responsibility for managing the water trail, which offers the ideal setting for exploration by kayak, canoe or boat.

“The Black Canyon National Water Trail is open to everyone,” said Christie Vanover, public affairs officer for Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

“From Nevada, you can access the trail through a designated tour company at the base of the Hoover Dam or you can launch at Eldorado Canyon on your own. You can also access the trail from Arizona at Willow Beach.”

A launch permit is required for any launch from Hoover Dam, but a permit is not required for a launch from any other point along the trail. Permits cost $17 and are available from any authorized outfitter.

The waterway features moving flat water, and while there are no whitewater rapids, paddlers planning a self-guided tour should stay vigilant for strainers, boils, eddies and strong currents in some sections.

Robert Finlay, owner and operator of Kayak Lake Mead since 2004, describes the trail as “an emerald jewel in the middle of North America’s smallest and driest desert.”

Finlay received his paddling instructor certification from the American Canoe Association and enjoys sharing his knowledge of paddling as well as the rich history of this region with those who share his passion for adventure. He is a proficient climber, mountain biker, desert trekker, adventure racer and sea kayaker.

“There are many special places for me, but one stands out,” said Finlay, who offers beginning and advanced kayak lessons as well as guided kayaking and hiking expeditions. “Windy Canyon, between Black Canyon and Eldorado, is rich in rock art (petroglyphs). I love exploring that area.”

These ancient works of art created by the indigenous people of the area can be found at several other locations along the trail. These include Monkey Hole, Willow Beach, Upper Ringbolt Canyon and Arizona Hot Spring Canyon.

Other highlights along the trail include numerous coves, active hot springs, natural caves and coves with sandy beaches.

Arizona Hot Spring Canyon is an especially deep and narrow slot canyon with walls a mere 6 feet apart in some areas. This is a popular destination, especially during the spring and fall months when outdoor temperatures are conducive for a relaxing soak in the warm water. The hot spring is a short hike from the water and located atop a 30-foot waterfall. The National Park Service has installed a sturdy ladder for easy access.

The National Park Service restricts access to Black Canyon by motorized vehicles during certain days. Vessels with motors and personal watercraft are prohibited on the portion of the trail from Hoover Dam to Willow Beach on Sundays and Mondays year-round.

During the fall, winter and spring, personal watercraft are prohibited and boating is restricted to vessels with engines of 65 horsepower or less Tuesday through Saturday in this area.

During the summer, this stretch of the trail is operated as a rural-natural zone with no restrictions on the use of personal watercraft or boats Tuesday through Saturday.

Due to the narrow canyons, wakeboarding, water skiing and houseboating are prohibited year-round at Black Canyon.

Visit blackcanyonwatertrail.org for more information about Black Canyon National Water Trail and a list of authorized outfitters for access from Hoover Dam.