Last Updated on May 18, 2022 by Editor
Paddle boarding at Havasu Creek, Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon can be located around 4 hours away from Las Vegas in Eastern Arizona. This spot is well known for its incredible views and unbelievable experiences. Although nothing you can look at on the internet truly represents the sheer beauty and unpredictability of the Canyon.
Although this may be one of the most adventurous places to visit be sure to bring all the correct safety equipment as this could be a very dangerous trip in parts. Also, make sure you have a permit and you’re allowed to SUP in the area you plan to visit; otherwise you might find yourself in a spot of bother. If you don’t have your own board there are a few local rental companies so don’t give up before you’ve started.
Read our guide to the best inflatable paddle boards– An inflatable SUP with backpack is essential if you are hiking to best paddle boarding locations in the Grand Canyon
Best Spots to SUP in the Grand Canyon and Near by
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Paddle Boarding down the Colorado River
The Colorado River starts in the Rocky mountains Canada and flows all the way through the Grand Canyon before heading south into Mexico. The best place to paddleboard the Colorado river is from Moab (Utah).
[2022 update – this current SUP adventure is on hold, please check back on the website for new availability]
Paddle Boarding at Havasu Creek
[Havasupai has been closed for 2 years since covid but will reopen in June 2022]
This is for experienced paddlers only! If you have the correct passes and safety equipment, enough food and water and you’ve been riding confidently for years then it is up to you just how far down the Grand Canyon you decide to go. There are some amazing views and this truly is a once in a lifetime experience.
To reach this spot you would either have to make a 36-mile Hiking trip whilst carry your Sup or you would have to spend a week or two paddling down the Colorado River. Although it’s possible, we wouldn’t recommend it. If anything the Grand Canyon itself is enough of an adventure; remember you can make this a camping trip as well if you organize it properly. Most SUP grand canyon trips are supported, meaning you need a truck to help you move all your gear to the location.
Note: Paddle Boarding in the grand Canyon requires a permit, please see details here.
You may have seen images online of people paddling on the astonishing Havasu creek, it may seem too good to be true because it is!
Paddle Boarding Havasu Creek FAQs
Where can you stay at Havasu Creek?
You can stay at the Havasupai camping ground (min 3 nights). They also have a lodge.
How much does Havasupai lodge cost to stay in?
According to the booking site, each room costs $660 per room each night! But a room can sleep up to 4 people, so $165 per person. If you are a couple, try and hook up with some others to split the cost of a room.
Can you enter the Havasupai reservation now?
The area is currently closed due to Covid, but will reopen June 2022
Can you swim in Havasu Creek?
Yes, you can swim all year in the creek, perfect for cooling down after your paddle boarding.
How do you get to Havasu Creek ?
Head off highway 66 onto route 18. This is a 64-mile road all the way to Hualpai Hilltop
Havasu Falls Interactive Map
For further information on the region:
Escorted Paddle Boarding Trips in the Grand Canyon
Colorado River half-day paddleboarding tour Booking via Viator
If going all out on the above SUP adventure sounds too much, here are some locations near the Grand Canyon that can offer similar scenery
Lake Mead Paddle Boarding
If you want to experience the magnificence of the Grand Canyon without the long trip then Lake Mead might be right for you. The man-made reservoir was built to supply water to Las Vegas and parts of California and has done a good job so far.
Although the lake has been shrinking and has lost over 4 trillion gallons of water in the last 14 years, at the time of its creation in 1935 it was the largest man-made reservoir in the world. Desert adventure offer paddleboarding on the lake (link below) they have to ACA level 2 SUP instructors so are perfect for anyone who hasn’t used a paddleboard before as well as being able to help more experienced riders improve as well. http://www.kayaklasvegas.com/sup_lake_mead/index.html
Salt River Paddle Boarding
This spot is great for any SUP(er) as you get to explore the Sonoran desert as well as the amazing river environment. This is a great opportunity to have a relaxing workout in the water and improve your Paddling skills. The tour guides will do their best to give you extra information on the surrounding areas and answer any questions you may have (should you decide to book a tour).
From this spot, there will be some amazing views of the Mountain/s and you might even catch some of the wildlife whilst on the trip! Don’t forget to try and persuade Family and/or friends to join you on this trip; especially because of the group discounts that Arizona Outback adventures offer (link below).
https://aoa-adventures.com/stand-up-paddle-board/
If you get the opportunity to go paddling in any of the spots above make sure you take full advantage of it. They are all owe inspiring although be sure you are prepared with the correct safety equipment and enough food and water to last your trip! We hope this article has given you an insight on Paddleboarding in/around the Grand Canyon! Oh and don’t forget the suncream whatever you do.
Image credits: nrs.com, Wikipedia