About UsGuided Kayak Trips
Getting away from familiar home waters and paddling in new, scenic, and exciting places is the "crown jewel" of kayaking. Whether it be mellow or raucous, day-tripping or self-sustained multi-day touring in new locations can open the world to us, broaden our skills and knowledge, and provide us with the true adventure kayaking can offer.
Come join us for that once-in-a-lifetime trip... or just the first of many memorable experiences.
| Colorado River |
For home-based day tours in our own Newport Bay, check out our Guided Tours
Choosing the Right Trips
Colorado River Guided Trips
In 2010 we reinstated two proven and popular trips on the calm lower Colorado River - the Colorado River Campout
and the Canyons of the Colorado 3-Day. For 2011-2012, we are introducing two new river trips: the Canyons of the
Colorado 4-Day trip and the Lower Colorado Wilderness Camping trip. This lineup provides not just a good variety
of trip types and scenery, but provides a step-wise introduction to kayak touring in a calm, fresh-water environment.
On the Colorado River Campout - Topock, we operate out of a shower- and flush-toilet-equipped base camp where you can camp in tent, car, or camper; and paddle through scenic Topock Gorge on Day 1 and Topock March on Day 2. This is a great introduction to kayak touring, without the need to pack all your gear in the kayak or camp in remote areas.
Our Canyons of the Colorado trips are three or four-day self-supported paddles where we will be staying in rustic riverside camps as we enjoy country visited by only a lucky few. The 4-day trip adds the magnificent scenery and hiking of Black Canyon to our 3-Day route, and turns the experience into a true vacation. Prior camping experience and some pre-familiarization with packing a kayak will help smooth the way into this rich learning experience.
The new Lower Colorado Wilderness Camping trip is a three-day self-contained camping trip in a scenic and historic section of the river near the Mexican border, featuring easy paddling and camping in established campsites with friendly pit toilets. Prior camping experience is not needed, but some pre-familiarization with packing a kayak will help.
In previous years we have offered trips to a wide variety of destinations. And while they are presently on hiatus, watch for the possible reintroduction of these trips as you enjoy and learn from our Colorado River trips. There's always more paddling to enjoy!
Private/Group Guided Trips Both private and reserved group trips are also available. We can arrange many different options for most any size group in a variety of locations.
Other General Trip Information
Are kayaks, food, and camping gear included with these trips?
You may elect to use your own appropriate kayak or other approved craft, or reserve a kayak and basic paddling
gear from our fleet. Beyond that, all participants will be responsible for their own food, utensils, camping gear and
personals, in the true spirit of self-supported adventure trips. However, on one evening, we traditionally host a
potluck dinner, with everyone contributing to the feast.
Do I need camping experience?
Not really - before your trip we will send you a checklist of the things you should bring. If you don't own a tent,
sleeping bag, or camping gear, we can suggest places where you can rent or buy. If you need help with planning
and packing your gear, we have touring manuals at the store and experience we are happy to share. In addition, our
friendly guides are eager to help you learn the secrets of kayak camping, so your trip will be easy and fun.
Skill Requirements - Experience and skills vary for each trip. Click here for more details.
How to Reserve Your Trip and Trip Policies - Click here to find out more details! Or contact us at info@southwindkayaks.com or 1-800-SOUTHWIND.