Western Wanderlust Chronicles

Launching from Hoover Dam

Our friend Amber organized an amazing two-day kayak adventure down Black Canyon, promising hot springs, slot canyons, secluded beaches, hidden caves, geological sites, and more! Alongside 11 friends, Bill and I embarked on a journey filled with laughter and a touch of craziness. With a mix of first-time kayakers and seasoned paddlers like Bill and myself, we were all excited yet new to the experience of kayak camping.

Our adventure began beneath the towering Hoover Dam, with our route taking us south along the Colorado River to Willow Beach. The landscape was breathtaking, with dramatic desert vistas and narrow slot canyons beckoning us to explore.

The Adventure Begins

Our shuttle brought us to the base of the dam through tight security, dropping us at the launch site with a strict 20-minute window to unload our kayaks and gear. Despite the rush, the excitement was palpable as we prepared for the day ahead. After a quick launch, we paddled a short distance to a sand bar, where we took the time to properly repack and adjust our gear.

Sauna Cave and Gold Strike Canyon

Barely a mile from the dam, we encountered our first must-see location: the Sauna Cave. Originally drilled by Hoover Dam workers, the project was abandoned when they struck 122-degree water. Inside, the cave is an intense 140 degrees with 100% humidity, making it a steamy, unforgettable experience.

Just a quarter-mile further down the river, we reached Gold Strike Canyon. Hiking into the canyon, we discovered an array of hot springs – from pools and waterfalls to creeks. The hot water flowed directly from the rock in some spots, creating natural showers that were both invigorating and soothing.

Boy Scout Canyon

A little over a mile farther along the Nevada side, we embarked on one of my favorite hikes: Boy Scout Canyon. The canyon’s entrance featured a large sandy beach, inviting us to explore further. Using ropes, we climbed up several slot canyons, marveling at the rugged beauty and enjoying the challenge of the ascent.

Arizona Hot Springs

Our final stop for the night was the popular Arizona Hot Springs, where we found a large sandy beach perfect for setting up camp. After pitching our tents, we grabbed a snack and headed up the slot canyon to the hot spring pools. To reach the pools, we climbed a steel ladder up a waterfall. The pools, built up with rocks and sandbags, varied in temperature, with the upper pools being extremely hot and the lower ones comfortably warm.

A Perfect End to Day 1

Relaxing in the hot springs under the stars, we reflected on the incredible experiences of the day. The combination of stunning scenery, exhilarating hikes, and the camaraderie of friends made for an unforgettable first day on our kayak adventure down Black Canyon. The anticipation of what lay ahead only added to our excitement as we settled in for the night, ready for more adventures to come.