If you’re looking for a water adventure but don’t feel up to the rigors of Lake Mead, this course in Lake Las Vegas is for you. Public access to the lake is found at a parking lot on the east side of the lake. Other access points can be found but may be limited by private ownership of launch spots. This is a popular spot, so be on the lookout for other boats, particularly larger and faster moving craft.

Southwest of Wells, Nevada, Angel Lake is a popular recreation spot with plenty of hiking trails and camping spots, even an annual foot and bike race. Angel Lake itself is a beautiful spot and water sports adventurers will find its smooth surface a great place for a canoe or kayak. Access to the water is provided from a sandy beach next to the parking lot. This is a small lake, so the course isn’t long, but beginners and experts alike will enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Nestled between granite peaks and domes of Sierra National Forest is where Courtwright Reservoir lies bordered by tall pines and surrounded by incredible views of a rugged landscape. On this remote lake you wont find motorized boats zipping by since there is a 15 mph speed limit, if you find any at all. This is generally a quiet and calm lake, making it perfect for paddlers. Strong southerly winds build by late afternoon. Winds are light along the eastern shores, but try this paddle trip in the morning when winds less common. There are a few different campgrounds around the lake: Trapper Springs, Marmot Rock, and Voyager Rock. The latter is a primitive campsite, but free.

Tucked away in the mountains of Stanislaus National Forest and encased in solid rock is where you'll find Spicer Reservoir. Pines have adapted to the rugged environment and dig their roots deep within the fractures of the rocky shoreline. The plus about this lake is you wont find speed boats or water skiers, its for non-motorized uses only. There is a designated camping area at the lake which requires a fee. Primitive camping is permitted and is free. Check with Stanislaus National Forest for further information on camping and permits required.

Mono Lake lies in the Great Basin on the outskirts of Yosemite National Park. There is no outlet around the lake, which makes this an alkali rich lake. Because the lake is high in dissolved salts, carbonate minerals precipitate and form along the shores. These castle like features are known as tufa. Beyond the tufa and to the west, you'll find views of Yosemite's peaks towering above as you paddle around the lake. Strong prevailing afternoon winds develop, making the waters rough and choppy. Try this paddle trip in the early morning when conditions are calmer. In addition to launching from Navy Beach, there is a boat launch site at Lee Vining Creek. Between April 1st and August 1st the area around the islands is closed off to protect the nesting of California gulls. Access to and camping on the islands are permitted all other months; contact Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area for further information.

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.

Located at the south side of the Lahontan Reservoir, this is a small lake about 4 miles long that is popular with residents of Silver Springs, Fernley and Fallon. Sandy beaches are welcoming and those on watercraft can beach just about anywhere for a break. A boat launch is available on the west end of the lake at S. Beach Road and Fir Ave.

Located at the North end of the Lake Lahontan Reservoir, this is a small recreational area, only 2.3 miles wide at its widest, but great for a water adventure in the Nevada desert. Access this from a parking lot near the dam at the northeast corner.

From the more popular recreational access on the western shores of Lake Lahontan and travelling to the more remote reaches of the east part of the lake, this is a great adventure for those looking for time on a lake. Depending on lake levels, part of this course may be impassable or require portage. Access from a parking lot and boat ramp on S. Beach Road at Fir Ave in Silver Springs.

One of three reservoirs in the immediate area, this is one of the only places in eastern central Nevada with good water adventures. A parking lot and small ramp are located at the southwest corner of the reservoir. This is a small reservoir in area, and you’re likely to be alone on the water.