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kayak one of the world’s most majestic canyons

Two people kayaking on a river with rocky cliffs and trees under a clear blue sky.

Ditch the crowds and paddle into serenity with the Horseshoe Bend Kayaking Package! This package lets you experience the magic of the Colorado River at your own pace. Float downstream, enjoying the breathtaking scenery of Horseshoe Bend and the surrounding desert landscapes. We handle the gear and backhaul from Lee's Ferry, so you can just focus on soaking it all in. After your adventure, unwind in our comfy, newly renovated rooms at the lodge - your perfect basecamp for exploring the wonders of the area. For more information give us a call at 1-800-726-1789 or check below for availability!

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Your adventure out on the river

Man in a kayak on a river with red rock cliffs and desert vegetation in the background.

There’s countless reasons Kayaking the Colorado River is an amazing experience. From seeing the famous Horseshoe Bend from a unique vantage point many don’t get to experience, to the awe inspiring feeling of floating down between the massive canyon walls, this is one adventure you won’t soon forget.

You’ll start the day at Lee’s Ferry, the launching point for all river adventures. You and your kayak will be loaded onto a water craft and ferried up river to your first stop, Petroglyph Beach. From here you’ll take a short walk to the ancient Petroglyphs. These stone carvings are estimated to be 4,000 to 6,000 years old.

Ancient petroglyphs of animals and a line of engraved animal figures on a reddish-brown rock surface, with dry desert plants at the bottom.

After viewing the petroglyphs it’s time to start your kayaking adventure. The Colorado River is a class 1 river, meaning it is a smooth ride and perfect for beginners. It takes approximately 4 - 6 hours to float down the 10 mile stretch of river back to Lee’s Ferry. But don’t spend all your time in the water! Here are some of the great stops along the river:

  • Horseshoe Bend Plateau

  • Limestone Lens Trail

  • Waterhole Canyon

  • Anasazi Slickrock

  • Box Canyon River

  • Fall Canyon

  • Great Sand Dune River

  • Wild Horse Pasture

  • Johnson Cabin Ruins

Multiple colorful kayaks in yellow, red, blue, black, and green, lined up on a dirt surface with mountains and desert vegetation in the background.
A person kayaking on a river surrounded by red rock cliffs and a partly cloudy sky.

Tips to have the best time on the River

  • Bring sunscreen, sun hat, and plenty of water.

  • Dress in layers if visiting in spring or fall.

  • Choose the right footwear, water shoes or sports sandals.

  • Bring a bathing suit

  • Bring a waterproof bag and phone case for your trip.

  • Bring a sack lunch (available for purchase at Lonely JackRabbit)

  • Wear your life jacket at all times while on the river.

  • If you’re a new kayaker don’t stress! The team will check in on you throughout the day.

  • There are plenty of bathrooms along the route if you need to stop.

  • Keep an eye out for wildlife! Along the river you will find bighorn sheep, wild horses, beavers, ospreys and eagles.

  • Take your time. The fun is in the journey! Don’t rush it and enjoy the serenity of the beautiful Colorado River, gateway to to the Grand Canyon.

A river flowing through a desert canyon with red rock cliffs and a clear blue sky, with two people on the riverbank near a boat.

Marble canyon lodge

Your home Base

Line drawing of mountains with a sun rising or setting behind them.
A modern building with a sloped roof sits in a desert landscape with red rock formations in the background and a blue sky with wispy clouds.
A modern hotel room with a wooden bed frame, white bedding, decorative pillows, and a patterned orange and black bed runner. There is a framed artwork above the bed, a window with a view of a tree outside, and a unique oval-shaped storage bench near the window.

Stay in the playfully design-forward Marble Canyon Lodge in a charming small town on your next road trip. Offering all the comforts you need during your adventures, our newly remodeled rooms are your perfect home base.

While staying in the charming Marble Canyon Village you’ll enjoy a constant scenic background of the beautiful Vermilion Cliffs. At night the wide open sky displays a stunning array of stars, never seen in higher trafficked areas. On property you will have access to our restaurant, coffee shop, trading post, and convenience store. Our remodeled rooms were built with the traveler in mind. Featuring exceptionally comfortable beds, a writing desk, storage for all your gear, in-room coffee to start your morning, and large modern bathrooms. You’ll never forget the feeling of reconnecting with nature in a way that's only possible at the Marble Canyon Lodge.

A green bucket hat with white embroidery that reads 'Lonely Jackrabbit Marble Canyon Arizona' is placed on a gravel road. In the background, there are red rock formations and a blue sky in a desert landscape.
Silhouette of a rabbit with tall ears and a short tail.

Introducing the Lonely JackRabbit Restaurant

We know you can’t wait to get to know Jack at the Lonely JackRabbit. He’s been busy crafting an all new menu for you with a southwest spirit. Try some of your future favorites while you’re here, like our cactus fries, blue pancakes, or Navajo Fry Bread Salad. Our food is seriously comforting, you will find something for everyone to enjoy along with a fun cocktail menu. Offering full breakfast, lunch and dinner menu’s, we are ready to satisfy any craving. So come in and give us a try during your next adventure.

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Lucky Foot Coffee and Ice Cream bar

This new charming spot caters to both your caffeine cravings and sweet tooth desires. Whether you're an espresso enthusiast or just need a quick pick-me-up, Lucky Foot offers a variety of options. When the desert heat hits, Lucky Foot comes to the rescue with our delicious soft serve ice cream. Enjoy it on its own or indulge in a sweet treat with a boozy concoction. Whether you crave a classic coffee or a refreshing ice cream treat, Lucky Foot Coffee and Ice Cream Bar is your one-stop shop for a delightful pick-me-up at any time of day.

An abstract image featuring cream-colored, wavy lines on a black background, arranged in a diamond shape.
Two glasses of iced coffee, one black and the other with milk and caramel, garnished with dried orange slices, on a rustic wooden surface with more slices and cinnamon nearby, blurred background with lights.
Person holding a cup of vanilla and lemon ice cream outdoors on a road with red rock formations in the background, marked with Marble Canyon Arizona.