10 of the BEST Places to Kayak in Amazing Arizona

Arizona is famous for its sprawling deserts, red rock formations, and iconic landscapes, but did you know it’s also a haven for kayaking enthusiasts? After moving to Arizona two years ago, we realized we needed to experience all the Arizona lakes and rivers winding through canyons from ON the water. So we bought an inflatable kayak and headed out on some epic adventures. You don’t have to be a seasoned paddler – these incredible places to kayak in Arizona are sure to leave you in awe whether you’re a beginner or not.

Kayak in Arizona – Lake Powell

Lake Powell, straddling the Arizona-Utah border, is a world-renowned destination for water adventures. With its sparkling blue waters and dramatic red cliffs, it’s an epic paddler’s paradise.

• Why It’s Epic: Paddle through towering sandstone canyons, explore hidden coves, and marvel at natural arches like Rainbow Bridge.
• Tips for Kayakers: Launch your kayak from Wahweap Marina or Antelope Point. Morning is the best time to avoid wind and boat traffic.
• Nearby Attractions: Visit the iconic Horseshoe Bend and Glen Canyon Dam for more breathtaking views.
• Costs: Entrance fees to Glen Canyon National Recreation Area are $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. Kayak rentals range from $45–$75 per day.

Places to Kayak in Arizona – Horseshoe Bend

Did you know you can actually kayain in Horseshoe Bend? Horseshoe Bend in Page, Arizona, is one of the state’s most photographed landmarks in the state and offers an incredible kayaking experience along the Colorado River. If you have the opportunity to kayak here, don’t skip it!

• Why It’s Epic: Paddle through the winding, horseshoe-shaped curve of the Colorado River while surrounded by towering canyon walls. The views are unforgettable.
• Tips for Kayakers: Launch from Lee’s Ferry for a day trip or book a guided kayaking tour to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon offers cooler temperatures and softer lighting for photos.
• Costs: Guided kayaking tours start at around $120 per person.

Kayaking down the Salt River

Probably the most well-known kayaking location in the Phoenix area, The Salt River provides a fun and tranquil escape just outside the city. Offering lush river landscapes and opportunities to spot wild horses, you can spot kayaks and tubers here on any given day.

• Why It’s Epic: The calm waters and scenic surroundings make it perfect for beginners and nature lovers. Kayaking down the Salt River offers the unique chance to paddle alongside the iconic Salt River wild horses bathing or drinking along the waters, creating an unforgettable experience.
• Tips for Kayakers: The Lower Salt River is a popular stretch with multiple access points, such as Coon Bluff and Granite Reef.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer are ideal when the river flow is higher.
• Costs: Parking at Tonto National Forest sites requires a $8 daily pass. Kayak rentals start at $40 per day.

Places to Kayak in Arizona – Lake Pleasant

Located just 45 minutes north of Phoenix, Lake Pleasant is one of our favorites for enjoying a day on the water. It was actually the very first place we camped in Arizona, so if you want to combine camping and kayaking, Lake Pleasant is a great choice.

• Why It’s Epic: This sprawling lake offers miles of shoreline, hidden coves, and open waters perfect for exploration.
• Tips for Kayakers: Launch from the Lake Pleasant Regional Park and bring a fishing rod if you want to try your luck catching bass. Or launch from your camping spot if you’re camping along the water.
• Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot and avoid the crowds.
• Costs: Entrance fees are $7 per vehicle. Kayak rentals cost around $40 per half day.

Paddling down the Verde River

Flowing through central Arizona, the Verde River is one of the state’s last free-flowing rivers and a designated Wild and Scenic River. So of course, it’s another epic place to paddle.

• Why It’s Epic: The Verde River offers an immersive experience in Arizona’s natural beauty, with lush greenery and abundant wildlife.
• Tips for Kayakers: The stretch between White Bridge and Beasley Flat is especially popular for its mild rapids and scenic views.
• Best Time to Visit: Late winter and spring are ideal when water levels are higher.
• Costs: Kayak rentals range from $35–$60. Guided tours start at $80 per person.

Kayak around Canyon Lake

Nestled in the Superstition Mountains, Canyon Lake is a breathtaking destination for kayaking. It’s one of those kayaking experiences that no matter where you paddle, you’ll have incredible views. We love taking day trips to Canyon Lake and combining it with lunch at Tortilla Flats or walking around Goldfield Ghost Town.

• Why It’s Epic: Paddle through narrow canyons surrounded by rugged cliffs and enjoy the tranquility of this hidden gem.
• Tips for Kayakers: Launch from the Canyon Lake Marina and pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the lake’s secluded beaches.
• Nearby Attractions: Take the Apache Trail Scenic Byway for incredible desert views.
• Costs: Entrance fees to Tonto National Forest sites are $8 per vehicle. Kayak rentals start at $50 per day.

Places to Kayak in Arizona – Watson Lake

One of our very first kayak adventures was in Watson Lake, and it left us speechless. Located near Prescott, Watson Lake is known for its striking granite rock formations and calm waters. It’s one of those places that seriously doesn’t look real. 

• Why It’s Epic: Kayak among giant boulders and explore hidden nooks in this picturesque lake.
• Tips for Kayakers: Launch from Watson Lake Park and consider renting a kayak if you don’t have your own.
• Pro Tip: Sunrise or sunset paddles offer those stunning photo opportunities that enhance your trip.
• Costs: Entrance fees are $3 per vehicle. Kayak rentals are available for $25 per hour.

Kayak the beautiful Saguaro Lake

Another gem in the Tonto National Forest, Saguaro Lake is a serene spot surrounded by desert beauty. This is another popular kayaking spot in the Phoenix area, as well as boating, paddle boarding, hiking and swimming. And Butcher Jones hike is one of our absolute favorites in the area, so don’t forget to check that out too.

• Why It’s Epic: Named after the iconic saguaro cactus, the lake offers calm waters and stunning views of rugged cliffs.
• Tips for Kayakers: Launch from Butcher Jones Recreation Area and explore the lake’s hidden coves.
• Wildlife Alert: Keep an eye out for bald eagles and great blue herons.
• Costs: A $8 daily pass is required for parking. Kayak rentals start at $45 for a half-day.

Kayaking through Bartlett Lake

Bartlett Lake, just north of Scottsdale and east of Carefree, is a peaceful destination for kayakers looking to escape the city. The lake covers a surface area of 2,815 acres – more than Canyon Lake and Saguaro Lake combined. That’s a lot of kayaking to be covered!

• Why It’s Epic: Surrounded by desert landscapes, the lake offers calm waters and plenty of space for paddling.
• Tips for Kayakers: Launch from Bartlett Lake Marina or Rattlesnake Cove and bring plenty of water and sun protection.
• Best Time to Visit: Late fall and winter offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. During the summer, Bartlett can be pretty packed with swimmers escaping the summer heat.
• Costs: Entrance fees are $6 per vehicle. Kayak rentals start at $50 per day.

Bucket List Kayaking – Lee’s Ferry

Situated at the start of the Grand Canyon, Lee’s Ferry is a bucket-list destination for kayaking enthusiasts. This is your chance to kayak the Colorado River.

• Why It’s Epic: The stunning views of towering canyon walls and emerald-green waters are unmatched.
• Tips for Kayakers: This area is ideal for day trips, but it’s also the launching point for multi-day kayaking trips through the Grand Canyon.
• Permit Information: No permit is needed for day use, but overnight trips require advance planning.
• Costs: Kayak rentals are $75 per day.

What Type of Kayak Should You Buy?

Choosing the right kayak depends on a number of variables, including  your experience level, how often you plan on using it, and most importantly, your budget. We opted for an inflatable INTEX Explorer kayak that fits all three of us (me, my husband, and my daughter). Here’s a simple guide to help you with your decision: 

1. Recreational Kayaks

• Best For: Calm lakes and slow-moving rivers.
• Features: Wider and more stable, making them great for beginners.
• Price Range: $300–$700.

2. Inflatable Kayaks

• Best For: Portability and easy storage.
• Features: Lightweight and easy to transport, but less durable than hard-shell kayaks.
• Price Range: $150–$600.

3. Fishing Kayaks

• Best For: Kayakers who want to fish with stability and space for gear.
• Features: Often equipped with rod holders and extra storage compartments.
• Price Range: $500–$1,500.

4. Tandem Kayaks 

• Best For: Families or couples who want to paddle together.
• Features: Seats two or more people, ideal for shared adventures.
• Price Range: $400–$1,200.

Tips for Kayaking in Arizona

Arizona’s diverse waterways offer something for everyone, but it’s important to be prepared. Here are a few tips to prepare to kayak in Arizona:

1. Check Weather Conditions: Desert weather can be unpredictable, so always check the forecast before heading out.
2. Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially in hotter months. Water is ALWAYS essential to bring for ALL kayaking trips. 
3. Wear Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also essential to protect against the desert sun.
4. Use Safety Gear: Always wear a life jacket and carry a whistle in case of emergencies. It is a law in Arizona to have a life jacket for each person on a kayak. 
5. Bring a Dry Bag: One thing we learned real fast (after our first kayaking experience without one) is to get a dry bag. It’s inevitable that the inside of your kayak will get a bit wet, so place all your important belongings – wallet, IDs, phone, permits, etc. – inside a dry bag for safety.
6. Respect Nature: Leave no trace and respect wildlife and natural habitats.

Is Kayaking in Arizona Worth It?

Kayaking in Arizona is a unique experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery, so to end another post with our famous question, YES, KAYAKING IN ARIZONA IS TOTALLY WORTH IT!  Whether you’re paddling through the iconic sandstone canyons of Lake Powell or gliding through the boulders of Watson Lake, each destination offers its own charm. So grab your paddle, explore these epic spots, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Looking for more awesome kayaking locations? Check out our Kayaking in Big Bear, California Guide here