Starting just south of Hoover Dam on the Colorado River, this scenic float is a fun and popular option for paddlers who don't mind sharing the outdoors with other people. Black Canyon is popular spot with motorboats, jet skis, tour helicopters, hikers, and lots of paddlers so there is not much solitude but the scenery is impressive. The river passes by caves, soaking pools, hot springs, beaches, and hiking trails providing lots of opportunity for stopping and relaxing while floating down river. Black Canyon is closed to motors on Sunday and Mondays. A permit and small fee is required to launch from Portal Road and can be obtained from some of the local tour companies so contact the Bureau of Reclamation for information on obtaining a permit. Parking at the take out at Willow Beach is free for shuttled vehicles or paddlers leaving from this location and paddling upstream.