Here Are 7 Epic Arizona Kayaking Spots That You Need to Visit Before Summer Is Over

The Grand Canyon State is a jewel of nature. It is home to luscious greenery that transitions to an arid, rocky, desert-like landscape, and sometimes, to beautiful, crystal-clear bodies of water. One would say it is a kaleidoscope of nature’s most fascinating features; an anthology of stories molded by time. Unbeknownst to many, there are a lot of bodies of water to enjoy in Arizona. Be it in a calm and steady stream, a still and humble lagoon, a majestic waterfall, a narrow strait, or a vast lake. Of all of these options, we are going to introduce you to its stunning lakes. If you’re an adventurous soul, then you might be getting ideas already on what there is to do on these beautiful lakes. Well, here are the best lakes to kayak in Arizona.

Have you always wondered which are the best lakes to kayak in Arizona?

The state is a beautiful place for the adventurous individuals or those looking to release themselves and be free as they can be! Now that it’s summer, the perfect idea seems to be under the sun while you’re enjoying the tide, right? Don’t worry. Even if you’re clueless, we have all there is to know about the most beautiful spots you need to visit. In no particular order, let’s dive into the best lakes to kayak in Arizona!

7 Epic Kayaking Spots in Arizona

1. Watson Lake

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Located four miles away from downtown Prescott, this scenic lake offers water activities such as fishing, boating, canoeing, and you guessed it, kayaking. What makes this place special are the unique boulder formations along the lake that make the eyeshot frame fantastic.

Some say that this place is perfect for beginners since the lake is relatively small. You’ll find that one end of the lake is surrounded by large granite dells. It is pleasing to look at so you might stop from paddling from time to time just to admire its beauty. Depending on the water levels, you can kayak around and in between many of them.

2. The Emerald Cove via Willow Beach

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Let’s get one thing straight. Willow Beach is like a kayaking paradise. Why is that? The setting is surrounded by steep canyon walls along the Colorado River. The guided rafts or kayak trips sailing from the base of the Hoover Dam to Willow Beach, often have stops at coves, and it’s truly one of the best parts of the trip. One cove in particular is a major destination of adventurers. The Emerald Cove is an enthralling sight to see because of its sparkling green water.

You can find this gorgeous kayaking spot 15 miles south of the Hoover Dam in Arizona off of U.S. Highway 93,

3. Bartlett Lake

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This is the perfect place to kayak and get sun-kissed at the same time! Anglers will also have the time of their lives because fishing in the lake is ideal. In fact, the lake spans more than 2,000 acres and routinely produces many biggest fishes in the state. Come here and see if you can catch Bartlett’s catfish that tip the scales at 50 pounds. If you’re not lucky enough for that kind of catch, you still won’t be disappointed. There are still other species such as largemouth bass or black crappie that are abundant in the lake as well. Does that sound like a good combo activity? Kayaking and fishing? It totally is.

Check out Bartlett Lake located near Bartlett Dam Road.

4. Salt River

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As long as we are talking about the beautiful lakes to kayak in Arizona, Salt River is where you can do all sorts of fun water activities. This lake is located at 12000 N. Bush Highway, Mesa. Salt River is part of Saguaro Lake. It’s also a fish habitat making it perfect for fishing. There is also a chance for horse sightings along the river banks. But the best activity of all is the kayaking adventure you can do here because you will be treated to easy paddling, cool water, and scenic views. The memorable wildlife in close proximity is also pretty refreshing.

It’s no surprise this spot is one of the favorites of the metro Phoenix paddling community! We recommend that you come here early in the morning to avoid the worst of the summer heat and the worst of the party-loving’ tubers. That’s when Salt River is most peaceful.

5. C.C. Cragin (Blue Ridge) Reservoir

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C.C. Cragin (Blue Ridge) Reservoir is near Happy Jack. It is actually a narrow, twisting body of water that you’d mistake for a canyon-bound river instead. Well, that’s what makes it one of the best lakes to kayak in Arizona! Take note, however, that the sides of the canyon are steep and there aren’t that many sandy shores around. Either way, it’s a perfect place for kayaking!

We already know what you are thinking. How could a gorgeous, narrow lake through a pine-covered canyon exist in the desert? That’s the beauty of Arizona. There is no shortage of magical and unexpected places no matter where you are.

6. Big Lake

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Located near Springerville, Big Lake offers fun water adventures and more. The massive 575-acre Big Lake is perfect for kayaking due to its large area. Not only that, but it is also an ideal getaway from the city life if you want a well-deserved relaxation time. You may choose to camp in the nearby campsites to experience lake life. Or you know, you can just stick to your itinerary and enjoy these perks after you are done kayaking down the enchanting waters of Big Lake!

7. Lake Powell

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The list of the best lakes to kayak in Arizona wouldn’t be complete without Lake Powell. Why? It is not just one of the best kayaking spots. If you think about it, Lake Powell is actually one of the best destinations every traveler should visit when they come to Arizona.

Located in Page, Lake Powell is one of the best lakes to kayak in Arizona. The outstanding scenery will just leave you speechless. You have to take note, though. Lake Powell is vast and cold. There are precautions you need to take note of before heading in, but the adventure experience awaiting you is all the more rewarding. There are many rivers you can kayak in because you need to choose whether you should go up the lake or down the lake. Either way, make sure to have contacts, a group, and/or an aid to help or guide you because you may find yourself lost in the lake with its massive rock formation corridors.

Reminders Before You Visit Any of These Lakes to Kayak in Arizona:

• You will definitely save some cash if you have your own kayak to use when out on a trip like this. If you don’t have one, check in advance for rental services for all sorts of water vessels. Chances are these stores are always available to serve you.
• Before visiting any of these 7 lakes, remember to check the website and see if kayaking is allowed. Due to the unfortunate outbreak of the COVID-19, some spots may be temporarily closed to curb the effect of the crisis. If the lake you wish to visit is open, then you should also be mindful of others and only travel when you are feeling well. You should also observe proper social distancing measures and good hygiene habits to avoid getting the virus.
• Always practice the Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures. Additionally, follow local regulations and explore responsibly!

Kick off your kayaking bucket list now! These are some of the best lakes to kayak in Arizona. Combining the enticing beauty of the setting and the high-spirited energy of kayaking, all while sailing through tranquil waves is an adventurer’s dream.

If you liked this article, you should check out: You Can Enjoy a Peaceful Fishing Trip at This Beautiful Lake in Arizona. You might also be interested to learn about the reasons why Arizona loves the Lake Havasu Balloon Festival so much.