This section of the Verde River is one of the most scenic and thrilling whitewater runs in Arizona when flowing at high water. There are many class III-IV rapids (possible V depending on water levels) along the river as well as large boulders, tree debris, surf holes and steep drops that add plenty of challenge and excitement to the adventure. Verde Falls located about 6.5 miles from Beasley Flat is one of the most challenging drops along the river, especially at high water, and should be scouted before proceeding or portaged if safety is in question. Flows on the river are best in the spring but can also pick up in the summer monsoon season. Be sure to check current water conditions with the Tonto National Forest before starting the trip.

This section of the Upper Salt River is one of the most popular rafting destinations in all of Arizona due to its beautiful rugged scenery and thrilling whitewater. The river travels through a scenic canyon and classic Sonoran desert landscape that provides abundant opportunity for viewing wildlife. There are multiple rapids and holes along this stretch of river for paddlers to enjoy that range in difficulty from class I to possible class IV depending on water flows. To launch and run this portion of the Salt River requires a permit for each individual from the Apache Tribe that can be acquired at the local Salt River Canyon Store and other possible retailers in the area. There are also multiple rafting outfitters that offer rafting trips down the river.

The Grand Canyon is one of the most scenic and stunning places in all of America to paddle and explore. The high-canyon walls and fast-flowing waters provide visitors with endless fun and amazing scenery. Unfortunately due to the popularity of the area, rugged nature of the canyon, and limited access, public use is limited and permits are required to float the river. Permits can be acquired through the park service but are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis or through a lottery system so there is no guarantee of obtaining one. The canyon can also be floated by using an outfitter that offers trips through the canyon. In addition to having a permit from the National Park Service, visitors must also obtain permits and pay fees to the Hualapai Indian Tribe for passing over tribal land. The canyon river can be run year-round but the floating experience will vary depending on water levels and time of year. During peak flows the river offers lots of thrilling whitewater whereas the rest of the year the river is much calmer and is more of a wilderness float. Visiting this section of the river usually requires 3-5 days.

The Grand Canyon is one of the most scenic and stunning places in all of America to paddle and explore. The high-canyon walls and fast-flowing waters provide visitors with endless fun and amazing scenery. Unfortunately due to the popularity of the area, rugged nature of the canyon, and limited access into the canyon, public access is limited and permits are required to float the river. Permits can be acquired through the park service but are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis or through a lottery system so there is no guarantee of obtaining one. The canyon can also be floated by using an outfitter that offers trips through the canyon. In addition to having a permit from the National Park Service, visitors must also obtain permits and pay fees to the Hualapai Indian Tribe for passing over tribal land. The canyon river can be run year-round but the floating experience will vary depending on water levels and time of year. During peak flows the river offers lots of thrilling whitewater whereas the rest of the year the river is much calmer and is more of a wilderness float. Running this section of the canyon must be done as a very long multi-day trip due to ver limited access down into the canyon. There is one midway point that can be used to gain access out of the canyon but this would require a 10-mile hike.

A great river route that also passes through a small lake, this river run is a great route for beginners. With relatively calm waters for a river (Class II), this course takes you from a little-known entry point north of Lake Mojave to Davis Dam. You can exit the river at the dam or at the marina northeast of the dam on the Arizona side.

An easy but very fun length of the famous Colorado River, this is a calm course without whitewater or especially difficult sections. Access this route from the River Palms Casino, and exit at the Avi Casino, two very recognizable landmarks that sit right on the river.

A downriver trek of epic proportions, this is a long-distance and probably multi-day adventure along the Colorado River from the Hoover Dam in Nevada to Lake Havasu in Arizona. You’ll pass through several cities, and lodging is available both in the form of campgrounds and even hotel-casinos that sit right on the river.

Looking for an experience on the water near Las Vegas? Bring your raft, canoe, or kayak to the bottom of the Hoover Dam and float your way to relaxation as you move calmly down the Colorado River to Willow Beach. This is a great option for those who would like to spend a little time on the water without the challenge of big rapids.

This section of the Colorado River starts just below the Glen Canyon Dam and travels through the dramatic and scenic Glen Canyon to Lees Ferry. There is no put-in spot up by the dam so paddlers need to either catch a ride on a motorboat up to the dam or paddle upstream which can be challenging depending on boat type, skill level, and water levels. There are outfitters that offer the ride upstream for a fee March through October. There is also a fee to park and launch at Lees Ferry.

For an easy and fun water adventure in the Las Vegas area, consider the Boulder Island kayaking route. Leaving from the Hemenway Harbor, you’ll paddle to the very nearby Big Boulder, Little Boulder, and Rock Islands and explore their ever-changing coastlines (due to rising and falling reservoir water levels). Waves on Lake Mead can be a bit bigger than on smaller water bodies, upping the difficulty of cross-lake travel, but this is still a good adventure for novices.