Kayak Horseshoe Bend

World-famous Horseshoe Bend in Page, AZ; you knew you could see it from the top down, but who knew you could actually get down in it on a kayak? Now that you know, you should definitely go, and experience Kayak Horseshoe Bend for yourself!

Soak in the splendor of the Colorado River on a more intimate and interactive level than the Horseshoe Bend Raft Trip. Begin by driving to Lees Ferry, approximately 1 hour from Page, AZ. Bring your own kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard (SUP), or rent a single or tandem kayak or SUP from Kayak Horseshoe Bend. All kayak, paddleboard, or SUP rentals include paddles and personal floatation devices (life jackets).

Next, you’ll board a customized backhaul boat upriver, piloted by a US Coast Guard Certified Captain. Go all the way to the base of the Glen Canyon Dam for an all-day paddle trip through the last remaining intact stretch of Glen Canyon. Or, get dropped off at Horseshoe Bend, Petroglyph Beach, or another location of your choosing for a shorter kayak experience. The knowledgeable guides at Lees Ferry Anglers can suggest the best drop-off spots for your timeframe.

**Effective June 1, 2023, all watercraft utilizing the 16-mile stretch between the Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry will need to have their group leader sign up for a free Backcountry River Permit at the self-serve kiosk above the Lees Ferry Parking Lot.

After pushing off from your designated spot, the rest of the day is yours, and you’ll want to maximize every moment you can. The gentle current of this rapid-free stretch of the Colorado River will carry you to natural delights such as lush hanging gardens, riparian sanctuaries populated by big horn sheep, mule deer, herons, and egrets, and sandstone walls that rise over 1,000’ as you coast along on the crystal clear waters. A California Condor may even pay a visit! The silence will only be interrupted by the splash of your paddles, the occasional surge of a boat motor, and possibly the cry of a hawk diving for a fish.

Want to extend your journey into an unforgettable overnight adventure? Bring your tent, sleeping bag, and provisions – you are welcome to camp at one of 5 designated campsites along the river, no permit or reservation required. Like to fish? Bring your Arizona fishing license, your favorite fishing rod, and hip waders – this stretch of the Colorado River is home to some hardy specimens of rainbow trout, brown trout, sunfish, and striped bass (limits, quotas, and/or catch-and-release policies may apply to some species of fish, see Glen Canyon Fishing Regulations for more details).

The paddle portion back to Lees Ferry is unescorted, but not to worry: hundreds of first-time paddlers, including kids, kayak Horseshoe Bend every day, and count it as one of the best parts of their Arizona vacation. Turning in your kayak at the end of the day is easy; simply beach your paddle craft at Kayak Horseshoe Bend’s designated site on the beach at Lees Ferry, and be on your way to your next destination. Or, take the opportunity to explore other sights in the area such as the Blanche Russell Balanced Rock House and Navajo Bridge, or enjoy a meal at Cliff Dweller’s Lodge, one of Arizona’s #1 hidden gem restaurants.

Trip duration: 2 hours to full day depending on your timeframe, preferences, etc.

Operating season: March through October

Backhaul Fees:

$75 per person for backhaul service including up to 100 pounds of watercraft, luggage, and gear. There is a two-person minimum ($150) for the backhaul boat.
$50 surcharge per person for watercraft, luggage and gear exceeding 100 pounds

Kayak/watercraft rental fees:

Single Inflatable $35
Single Inflatable XL Kayak $45
Tandem Inflatable $55
Fishing Kayak $45
Paddleboard $35

What’s included:

For boat/kayak rentals: paddles and PFD’s (personal flotation devices aka life jackets)

What’s not included:

Food and beverages
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area entrance fee ($30/vehicle, good for 7 days time)
Arizona fishing license
Camping or fishing equipment

What to know:

You are welcome to bring your own kayak or stand-up paddleboard, but Lees Ferry Anglers will not launch any craft deemed to be unsuitable or unsafe for local river conditions.
Summer weather is extremely hot and there is little to no shade in the canyon. Adequate sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat, etc.), as well as a canopy or umbrella, are highly recommended. Monsoon storms (mid-July through mid-September) may occur in the afternoon, in which case, you should be prepared to seek shelter.
Kayak Horseshoe Bend reserves the right to cancel a trip if weather or other conditions render the river unsafe for our guests.
Children must be at least 5 and accompanied by a parent or guardian in a tandem kayak to take part.