Kayak Lake Mead

Kayak Lake Mead runs guided Colorado River kayak tours through the Black Canyon for children 5 and older and adults, launching from Kayak Beach by the Willow Beach Marina, about an hour's drive from the Las Vegas Strip. The company recommends that kids 8 and under share a tandem kayak with an adult.

With younger kids, start with a shorter trip. The Emerald Cave Kayak Tour takes 3 to 4 hours over a 4 mile round-trip paddle, and the kayak, paddle, life vest and snacks are included. Cranes Nest runs 4 to 5 hours, and The Whole Dam tour launches from the base of Hoover Dam, lasts 6 to 8 hours and requires photo ID for everyone, with arrival 40 minutes before launch. Trips cover 4 to 12 miles, so match the route to how long your child can paddle.

Tours are self-drive only, so plan for the hour in the car and the $25 per vehicle national park entrance fee, which is free with a National Parks pass. First-timers are welcome, and guides go over safety rules and basic strokes before launch; the company says its guide holds current CPR and Wilderness First-Aid certifications. Tours run all year, rain or shine, unless weather makes it unsafe.

Cancel more than 72 hours out and you pay a 20% fee; inside 72 hours there is no refund unless you bought Peek Protect. A Hot Springs Hiking Tour starts at $145 for 4 hours.