Best Sea Kayaking in Utah

Trying to find the best sea kayaking in Utah? Bivy has great hiking, biking, paddling, climbing, skiing, riding and more, with hand-curated trail maps, as well as detailed driving directions.

1

Utah, San Juan County

05 :35 hrs
14 mi
167.7605 ft
SK II

This was a sea kayaking trip that we started from Stanton Primitive Campground after renting a 2 person sea kayak at the marina. It's a long but easy paddle. The views are great, and since it was late summer the boat traffic was minimal due to kids being back in school. Unfortunately we didn't get far into the canyon due to time constraints, but we did see a coyote roaming the shore from just about 100 ft away! As with any other trip here pack the usual supplies for any backcountry trip into dry bags and take them along.

2

Utah, Kane County

10 :29 hrs
13.1 mi
8.11377 ft
SK II

Paddling the waters of Lake Powell is an unforgettable experience. Beginning at Bullfrog Marina this multi-day paddle visits a beautiful and remote canyon. Smith Fork Canyon is intimate, with several sharp curves and narrows the further you paddle. It offers excellent camping but beaches will vary depending on the water level. There is an enjoyable slot canyon that begins about one mile beyond the high water mark. Be cautious paddling in the main channel. Wind and boat traffic can create dangerous conditions quickly.

3

Wyoming, Sweetwater County

11 :07 hrs
27.8 mi
2.0421143 ft
SK I

Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is located in southwest Wyoming and northeast Utah and offers abundant opportunity for water recreation. There are four boat ramps located in Wyoming allowing paddlers access to many different parts of the lake. The lake is made up of many channels and canyons for visitors to explore. The Firehole Canyon launch is located on the northeast side of the lake and offers a boat launch, restrooms, picnic sites, and campgrounds. Flaming Gorge is popular for many water sports and there are larger boats on the lake including houseboats so it is important to pay attention to other boaters while on the lake. Open water crossings may be necessary depending on the route being traveled.

4

Utah, Garfield County

06 :08 hrs
7.7 mi
28.941162 ft
SK I

Located on Lake Powell Lost Eden Canyon is a short paddle but is worth exploring. Beginning at Bullfrog marina this canyon has watercaves, mines and slot canyons. There aren’t very good options for camping in the canyon but it will depend on water level. Be cautions in the main channel. Wind and boat traffic can create dangerous conditions quickly.

5

Utah, Kane County

09 :56 hrs
12.4 mi
0.89782715 ft
SK II

Paddling the waters of Lake Powell will be an unforgettable experience. Put in at Bullfrog Marina. This is an overnight trip and paddles up the bay and to Forgotten Canyon. At the end of the canyon you will find some interesting Anasazi rock art and ruins. Depending on the water level, you may have to hike to see the ruins. Wind and boat traffic can create dangerous conditions in the main channel and bay. Check weather and plan accordingly.

6

Utah, Garfield County

18 :51 hrs
47.1 mi
8.899658 ft
SK II

Lake Powell is a mystical place to paddle with limitless canyons to explore and see. This paddle begins at Bullfrog Marina and goes to Hite. Plan on several days and visiting canyons along the way for camping. Be cautious in the main channel. Wind and boat traffic can create dangerous conditions quickly.

7

Wyoming, Sweetwater County

15 :51 hrs
39.6 mi
7.204956 ft
SK I

Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is located in southwest Wyoming and northeast Utah and offers abundant opportunity for water recreation. There are four boat ramps located in Wyoming allowing paddlers access to many different parts of the lake. The lake is made up of many channels and canyons for visitors to explore. The Buckboard Marina is located on the west side of the lake and offers a boat launch, marina store, and campgrounds. Flaming Gorge is popular for many water sports and there are larger boats on the lake including houseboats so it is important to pay attention to others while on the lake. Large water crossings may be necessary depending on the route being traveled.

8

Utah, Garfield County

09 :19 hrs
11.7 mi
7.713379 ft
SK II

Moki Canyon is a classic and popular canyon to explore at Lake Powell. Beginning at Bullfrog Marina paddling up this canyon may be best starting from an anchored houseboat. You will find several ancient ruins and the famous “sand mountain” near the end. Depending on water levels you may have to hike to reach Sand Mountain and the petroglyphs. There is camping but water levels will determine good beach access.

9

Wyoming, Sweetwater County

11 :56 hrs
29.8 mi
8.895386 ft
SK I

Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is located in southwest Wyoming and northeast Utah and offers abundant opportunity for water recreation. There are four boat ramps located in Wyoming allowing paddlers access to many different parts of the lake. The lake is made up of many channels and canyons for visitors to explore. The Anvil Draw launch is the most southwestern launch located near the wyoming/utah border and offers a boat launch and restrooms. There is no camping available at this site. Flaming Gorge is popular for many water sports and there are larger boats on the lake including houseboats so it is important to pay attention to other boaters while on the lake. Large water crossings may be necessary depending on the route being traveled.

10

Utah, Davis County

08 :51 hrs
11.1 mi
3.3164062 ft
SK II

The Great Salt Lake is one of the most well-known lakes in the country but due to its high water salt content and shallow waters it is rarely used for water recreation with the exception of kayaking and sailing. Antelope Island is the largest island on the lake and offers good access for paddlers to explore some of the lake. Paddlers can enjoy lots of wildlife viewing including bison, antelope, and abundant birdlife. The marina is located just north of the causeway that provides access to the island and is the starting point. Heading around the north side of the island paddlers will come around Egg Island into Bridger Bay and then onto White Rock Bay and further south. Paddlers can also explore the other side of the island but the water is fairly shallow. Bugs can be a big issue when paddling in the summer. There is a state park on Antelope Island that offers picnic areas, camping, and an information center.

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