You can explore the Lower Colorado River on your own terms either in your own boat or by renting a watercraft at the many rental locations in Laughlin and Lake Havasu. The Colorado River becomes more tranquil and relaxing as you head further south. The Topock Gorge is an environmental wonder which must be experienced to be believed. The wildlife in the area is a testament to the magnificent nature in the area with a variety of waterfowl and shore birds including coots, herons, mallards, and geese. You'll see majestic birds as hawks, roadrunners, and owls. The animals in the area include raccoon, beaver, muskrat, coyote, cottontails, fox, and if you're lucky you may spot a bobcat or bighorn sheep.
Big Bend State Recreation Area is located five miles south of Laughlin on the Needles Highway and is a Must See. Located on the shores of the Lower Colorado River, the park offers spectacular views of the river and snow capped mountains all around. The park is located just down stream of Davis Dam, so the water is clear and cool all year round which makes for a refreshing splash during the summer days when temperatures can soar to above 120 degrees F.
If you're seeking guided or organized tours, the area offers many options. Desert River Outfitters, 2649 Highway 95, Bullhead City, offers year round paddling on the Lower Colorado River to visit the many cultural and historic sites and see majestic rock formations, precipitous canyons and desert wildlife close up in the Black Canyon and Topock Gorge. You can explore Lakes Mead, and Mohave or tour the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge. Deser River can provide guided river trips anywhere on the Lower Colorado River.
Jerkwater Canoe & Kayak in Topock provides guides, paddling trips, and river trip support services on the Lower Colorado River from Hoover Dam all the way to Yuma. You can opt for deluxe all-inclusive trips including gourmet meals and accommodations or just go with your backpack. You'll enjoy campsite barbecues and individually packed picnic lunches while you are accompanied by knowledgeable, experienced river and tour guides.
Capt. Doyle's River Excursions offers a one and a half hour round trip adventure through the world famous Topock Gorge which includes the opportunity to take a short walk up to see the ancient Native American petroglyphs.Laughlin River Tour has daily cruises aboard the "Celebration" and "Fiesta Queen" fully climate controlled steamboats with enclosed and open seating. London Bridge Jet Boat Tours can power you down the Colorado River on a 28 foot or 36 foot jet boat from the Pioneer Hotel dock in Laughlin. You'll jet boat a full 58 miles through awe inspiring Topock Gorge and onto Lake Havasu. If you're in the mood for a somewhat less classic river adventure, the Golden Nugget Dock's boat offers upper and lower deck seating and is enclosed and heated during the fall and winter seasons.
When you really want to relax on the river, you can take a leisurely cruise on the USS Riverside, providing narrated voyages every day discussing the many unique features of the Lower Colorado River. The Riverside travels under the Laughlin/Bullhead City Bridge to Davis Dam where you will witness amazing desert landscapes and wildlife.
