Kayaking the Colorado River to Lees Ferry is a great way to spend the day. You float down a beautiful canyon and see sights such as Petroglyph Beach and Horseshoe Bend from below. In addition, you will most likely see a lot of wildlife, such as Bighorn Desert Sheep, California Condors, lizards, and more.
How to Float the Colorado River
There are two ways to float the Colorado River from the Glen Canyon Dam. 1. You can use an old park service trail known as the Ropes Trail and hike down to the river. 2. Hire a backhaul service (water taxi) to drop you off up the river.
For most people, the Ropes Trail is very challenging, and not the best option. You need an inflatable kayak and a way to hoist all your gear to do it with success.
There are a few kayak rental companies and backhaul services in the area. For more information, contact Kayak the Colorado or Kayak Horseshoe Bend.
Floating Down the Colorado River to Lees Ferry
Most backhaul services will take you approximately 16 miles up the Colorado River near the Glen Canyon Dam and drop you off. However, if you don’t have a full day to kayak, you can also request a closer drop-off location. Many people go to Petroglyph Beach, at the top of Horseshoe Bend. It usually takes 4 to 5 hours to paddle back to Lees Ferry from Petroglyph Beach.
Camping
Camping is a great option too. Many people who kayak the whole 16 miles will break up the trip by camping a night and finishing the next day. This is an excellent option because it gives your arms a chance to rest, and you get to sleep under some of the brightest stars you will ever see with the sound of the river flowing right beside you. Five camps are along the river, and each spot has composting toilets.
Fishing
If you like fishing, you are lucky because the Colorado River is a world-class fishery! If you decide to fish, you must carry a current AZ fishing permit and read the fishing proclamation. The Colorado River has a few special considerations, like no live bait and crimped barbs. The AZ Game and Fish Websites have all the details if you want to fish.
Kayaking the Colorado River
Kayaking the Colorado River is relatively easy since you paddle downriver the entire time without solid currents. The downstream flow isn’t powerful, but it helps out a bit. If you are not an avid kayaker, you will be sore and tired by the end of the trip.
Directions
Most backhaul service companies will have you meet them at Lees Ferry, but you will get explicit instructions for your trip when you complete your booking.
What to Bring
Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, a hat or shade, snacks (paddling makes you hungry), sunglasses, and water shoes. Consider getting a dry bag or box to store extra dry clothes and your phone and camera.
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Please do your part to keep the Colorado River beautiful by packing out everything you pack in and not changing the landscape. Remember to respect nature and follow ethical practices when engaging in outdoor activities. Always leave a place better than you found it, and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. Enjoy your time exploring and discovering the area’s hidden treasures!
More to Do in the Area
Kayaking through Antelope Canyon offers a unique perspective of the iconic slot canyon from Lake Powell. The difficulty of the kayaking experience can vary depending on weather conditions. In general it’s suitable for beginners with basic paddling skills. The distance covered during a typical kayaking trip through Antelope Canyon is around 5 miles round trip. The end of the canyon provides a hiking trail through the slot canyon that is typically 2 miles round trip.
The Glen Canyon Dam Overlook is located in Page, Arizona. It gives visitors a stunning panoramic view of the Glen Canyon Dam, the Colorado River, and the surrounding desert landscape. Visiting the overlook is generally easy, with a short walk from the parking area to the viewpoint. The path is well-maintained; however, some uneven terrain or steps may be along the way. The walk from the parking area to the viewpoint is less than half a mile round trip.
Horseshoe Bend near Page, Arizona, is a relatively short and easy hike offering spectacular views of the iconic horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River. The trail is approximately 1.3 miles round trip and is considered to be moderate due to some sandy sections.
Antelope Canyon is a stunning slot canyon near Page, Arizona. The hike through Lower Antelope Canyon is relatively easy, primarily involving walking along the sandy canyon floor with occasional steps and ladders. The distance covered during the guided tour typically ranges from around 0.5 to 1 mile round trip.
Upper Antelope Canyon is a world-renowned slot canyon located near Page, Arizona. It is known for its mesmerizing light beams and sandstone walls. Hiking through Upper Antelope Canyon is relatively easy, mainly involving walking along the sandy canyon floor. The distance covered during a tour typically ranges from around 0.25 to 0.5 miles round trip.