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Nestled within the stunning red rock landscapes of the American Southwest, Lake Powell offers an unparalleled paddling experience, including the opportunity to kayak Antelope Canyon.
If you’re looking to kayak Lake Powell, we’ll provide essential tips, routes, and safety information to help you make the most of your adventure on this iconic reservoir.
Why Plan A Lake Powell Antelope Canyon Kayak Trip?
A Lake Powell Antelope Canyon kayak trip can be an unforgettable adventure.
But it’s not just kayaking at Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon, there are plenty of other things to do, such as hiking, fishing, swimming, and learning about the area at the many visitor centers.
Millions Of Years Of History And Geology
Lake Powell is within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, stretching between Northern Arizona and Southern Utah.
The canyon walls that tower hundreds of feet above the lake have been carved out over millions of years by the force of the Colorado River. The river was dammed in 1963, creating Lake Powell.
You can discover fossil evidence of dinosaurs from the Mesozoic Era as well as fossilized evidence of mammoths and other mammals from the Ice Age.
As well as fossil remains from prehistoric fauna, there are also hanging gardens to witness. These native plants grow on the vertical cliff face of the canyon.
Before or after your kayaking trip, you can hike along the Hanging Garden Trail on the opposite side of the bridge from the Carl Hayden Visitor Center near Page, AZ.
Lake Powell Wildlife
Lake Powell can be a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise, with several rare species being found in the area.
One of the rare species found around Lake Powell is the California condor. This is North America’s largest bird, with a wingspan of 9.5 feet. If you’re lucky you might spot one soaring overhead.
Peregrine falcons, Mexican spotted owls, bald eagles, and long-eared owls are some of the other birds you could spot around Antelope Canyon.
You’ll find several species of reptiles, including the chuckwalla and the desert spiny lizard. The area is also home to lots of snakes, including four types of rattlesnake species.
Be aware of rattlesnakes if you’re hiking through the canyons or camping on the shore. You should listen for the rattle and move away from the snake’s location, as the snake will see you as a threat and could bite you in defense.
Mammals are rarely spotted around Lake Powell but there are a few species that call the area home. Bobcats, mountain lions, coyotes, and bighorn sheep can be found but you’re unlikely to see these animals during your kayaking trip.
Lake Powell Kayak Camping
One of the best things about Lake Powell is that you can camp pretty much anywhere around the lake, as the lake shore is considered National Park land.
You will need to make sure you adhere to the Leave No Trace principles. This means you need to leave your campsite as you found it and take all your trash home. So, don’t forget to bring a garbage bag with you for this purpose.
You will also need to think about human waste disposal, as this also needs to be taken with you, including toilet paper. You can rent portable toilets from Wahweap Marina.
Or you might find it’s easier to carry WAG (Waste Alleviation and Gelling) bags. You can find these in outdoor stores as well as marinas on the lake.
Hiking And Swimming In A Slot Canyon
A Lake Powell Antelope Canyon trip is not just about paddling through this remarkable landscape. You can also stop for a swim or hike deeper into the slot canyon for an otherworldly experience.
If you plan to hike, remember to wear sturdy shoes, especially if you plan to climb at any point. There are some areas where you can ascend parts of the canyons, such as the Moki Steps in Navajo Canyon.
However, most of the hikes into the canyons are flat, with rocky and sandy terrain.
Kayak Rentals And Tours At Lake Powell
You can rent kayaks at Antelope Point Marina where you can easily explore Antelope Canyon at your own pace.
The marina offers both single kayaks and double kayaks for use in Antelope Canyon. These are sit-on-top kayaks that can be easy for beginners to paddle but they may not offer as much space for a multi-day adventure compared to touring kayaks.
Sit-on-top kayak rental is also available at