Best Kayaking Adventures in Arizona
When most people think of Arizona, they picture desert landscapes and tall cacti. But here’s the surprise — Arizona is full of lakes, rivers, and hidden canyons that are perfect for kayaking. Whether you’re looking for peaceful waters or dramatic red rock scenery, the Grand Canyon State has something for every paddler.
Arizona offers some of the best kayaking in the Southwest, with scenic spots like Lees Ferry on the Colorado River, Lake Powell’s red rock canyons, and Prescott’s Granite Dells at Watson Lake. From desert rivers to alpine lakes, Arizona’s diverse waterways promise unforgettable paddling adventures for beginners and experienced kayakers alike.
Below are some of the best kayaking spots in Arizona that will inspire your next adventure.
Colorado River at Lees Ferry
At the edge of Glen Canyon, the Colorado River flows through one of the most breathtaking stretches of water in the Southwest. Between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry, this 15-mile section is a dream for kayakers. The crystal-clear water is home to trophy-sized rainbow and brown trout, and the canyon walls rise hundreds of feet above you.
As you paddle through Horseshoe Bend, keep your eyes open for desert bighorn sheep, wild horses, California condors, and peregrine falcons. You can paddle upriver or take a backhaul boat from Lees Ferry and float downstream at your own pace.
For gear and shuttles, visit Kayak Horseshoe Bend — they offer kayak rentals, backhaul services, and guided trips that make it easy for beginners and pros to enjoy the river safely and comfortably.
If fishing is part of your adventure, don’t miss out on Colorado River fishing, where world-class trout await beneath the canyon walls.
Lake Powell – Page, Arizona
Above Glen Canyon Dam lies Lake Powell, one of Arizona’s most spectacular places to kayak. Stretching more than 180 miles with over 100 side canyons, it’s a paddler’s paradise.
Explore the narrow sandstone corridors of Antelope Canyon, the twisting maze of Labyrinth Canyon, or the peaceful waters of Lone Rock Canyon. Whether you’re looking for solitude or stunning photo opportunities, Lake Powell’s red rock cliffs and clear blue water make it one of the best kayaking destinations in the state.
Lake Pleasant – Morristown
Just 45 minutes northwest of Phoenix, Lake Pleasant is an easy day trip for kayakers looking for adventure close to the city. Towering cliffs and small islands make every paddle exciting.
The lake is popular with powerboats, so for the smoothest ride, stay near the shoreline or explore the quieter coves on the northeast side. Early morning or sunset paddles are especially beautiful when the desert colors glow on the water.
Watson Lake – Prescott
Located only four miles from downtown Prescott, Watson Lake is one of Arizona’s most photogenic paddling spots. The calm blue water contrasts beautifully with the surrounding Granite Dells—ancient, rounded rock formations estimated to be 1.4 billion years old.
You can rent single or tandem kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddleboards from Prescott Outdoors, or bring your own boat for a relaxing day surrounded by stunning geology and desert wildlife.
Lower Salt River – Mesa
For paddlers near Phoenix, the Lower Salt River in Mesa offers a refreshing escape into nature. The river winds through the Tonto National Forest, where you can often see wild horses grazing along the banks and eagles soaring above.
The upper stretches have gentle rapids that add excitement, but overall, the river is beginner-friendly. Since there’s no shuttle service, plan ahead with two vehicles for drop-off and pickup — or bring a friend and make it a full day on the water.
Fool Hollow Lake – Show Low
When the summer heat hits, head for the cool pines of Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area in Show Low. Nestled at 6,300 feet in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, this 150-acre lake offers calm, no-wake waters ideal for kayakers of all skill levels.
Surrounded by tall ponderosa pines, it’s a peaceful retreat with plenty of wildlife and shaded picnic areas — perfect for a family paddling trip or a quiet solo escape.
Canyon Lake – Mesa/Apache Junction
Framed by steep red rock cliffs and blooming wildflowers in spring, Canyon Lake is a jewel in the Tonto National Forest. Paddlers can explore secluded coves and watch for bighorn sheep on the rocky ledges.
Because this lake is shared with motorboats, stay near the shoreline for a smoother experience. Don’t forget your Tonto Pass, which is required for parking and recreation access.
Big Lake – Springerville
If you crave solitude, head to the White Mountains and paddle Big Lake, located 25 miles south of Springerville at an elevation of 9,000 feet. The air is cool, the scenery is alpine, and the water is rich with trout.
With 450 acres of peaceful paddling, Big Lake is great for both kayaking and fishing. The nearby campgrounds and trails make it a perfect weekend getaway for anyone wanting to escape the Arizona heat.
Blue Ridge Reservoir – Happy Jack
Tucked into the Mogollon Rim, Blue Ridge Reservoir is one of Arizona’s most peaceful paddling spots. The narrow, winding waterway is surrounded by thick pine forests, and since motorboats aren’t allowed, it’s calm and quiet — ideal for wildlife viewing and reflection.
Bring your own kayak and enjoy the stillness. Just note that the reservoir closes in winter due to snow and ice.
Patagonia Lake – Patagonia
In southern Arizona, Patagonia Lake State Park offers warm water, gentle paddling, and incredible birdwatching. Created by damming Sonoita Creek, this scenic lake is home to herons, flycatchers, and hummingbirds.
For a truly peaceful experience, paddle to the east end of the lake where no-wake rules keep the water calm. You can even camp overnight at one of the boat-in-only campsites along the shore.
Plan Your Visit
After a full day of kayaking Arizona’s amazing waters, there’s no better place to relax than Cliff Dwellers Lodge — your gateway to Lees Ferry and the Colorado River. Nestled at the base of towering red cliffs, the lodge offers cozy, air-conditioned rooms, easy river access, and plenty of space to unwind after your adventure.
When hunger hits, treat yourself to a delicious meal at Cliff Dwellers Restaurant, where you’ll enjoy hearty comfort food and friendly service with unforgettable canyon views.
Whether you’re exploring for a weekend or planning a multi-day kayaking trip, Cliff Dwellers Lodge is the perfect home base for your Arizona kayaking trips.
Ready to Explore Arizona’s Waterways?
Plan your Arizona kayaking adventure today and experience the best kayaking, scenery, and hospitality the Southwest has to offer. Adventure is waiting — are you ready to paddle into it?