Your Black Canyon Kayaking trip with Four Season Guides is sure to be a memorable one, but a big part of making sure you’re comfortable and having lots of fun is being well prepared! Even though we provide the equipment essentials, there are a few things we want to be sure you don’t forget!
Our trips run year round so keep in mind the season of your trip when packing. Not all of this list will apply to your trip.
Personal clothing (Year Round):
- Sport sandals – consider Keen®, Teva® or Chaco® brands. These are for camp comfort as well as standing/walking/hiking in water.
- Lightweight long pants/trousers – for sun protection and warmth during cooler parts of the day.
- 1 or 2 pairs of shorts (nylon, quick drying)
- 2 tee shirts – cotton is great for warm weather hiking, nylon/synthetic is best for cooler months
- 1 pair of socks – consider Smartwool®, Fox River® or similar. Synthetic or wool is best.
- Bathing Suit – Lots of hot springs to soak in!
- Lightweight jacket or sweater – for warmth during cooler weather. Fleece is excellent and lightweight!
- Rain shell – lightweight & breathable
- Wide brim hat
- Sunglasses
Spring/Fall/Winter (November to March):
- Warm hat & gloves
- Lightweight down jacket or additional fleece
- 1 long sleeve synthetic or wool shirt – baselayer insulation (midweight)
- 1 pair of midweight long underwear – wool or synthetic
- Waterproof pants/trousers
Early spring, late fall and winter temperatures vary greatly from day to night and from sun to shade. The day time temperatures can be warm, reaching into the 70’s or even the 80’s, with the night temperatures dropping near or below freezing. It’s best to be prepared for both mild days and cool nights. Dressing in layers is the key to warmth and comfort.
Personal Items:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste (travel size)
- A small packet of tissues
- Sunblock cream (SPF 30 or higher)
- Personal medication (ibuprofen, antihistamine, antacid, etc). If you suffer from severe allergic reactions, you MUST bring an Epi Pen!
Mandatory Gear:
- Capacity to carry 3 liters of water (we recommend a 2 liter hydration pack plus a one liter water bottle)
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Identification – if you do not have ID, you will not be able to get through security at the Hoover Dam and you will not be able to participate. There are no refunds for guests who forget to bring identification.
Additonal Items:
- Camera – extra batteries
- Lip balm
- Bandana
- Knee brace (if you have knee problems)
- Money- for purchases during transport to trailhead or at Phantom Ranch & for guide gratuity (consider 10-15% of your trip cost or at your discretion)
The price of the trip includes all necessary gear: tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, backpack, bowls, cups, utensils, stove, cookware. However, you are more than welcome to use your own tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad if you would like, provided they are the appropriate size and weight for the trip.