Evolution Expeditions Kayaking Tours

Evolution Expeditions runs guided kayak tours on the Colorado River below Hoover Dam, near Boulder City, with most trips launching at Willow Beach, Arizona. The water is flat, with no white water, which makes it a realistic family outing if your kids can sit in a boat for a few hours.

The shortest option, the 3-hour Emerald Cave Kayak Tour, starts at $99.99 per person if you drive yourself, or $149.99 with the shuttle and park entry. The 4-hour version with a catered lunch starts at $139.99. Kids under 13 must share a tandem kayak with an adult or a guide, and the company says its youngest paddler so far was 4. Nevada law says kids must be 8 years old or 80 pounds to ride the shuttle, so families with little ones should plan to drive. The longer 12-mile Hoover Dam paddle is recommended for kids over 12.

Everyone gets wet. The river stays about 53°F all year, so pack quick-dry clothes and water shoes, not cotton or jeans, and bring layers in cooler months. Guides say fall and winter bring calm, glassy water and fewer crowds, which makes this a good pick for a CCSD day off or winter break. Cancel at least 48 hours ahead for a refund minus a 6% fee. Call (702) 259-5292.