Kayaking on Verde River in Sedona, Arizona

Kayaking on the Verde River offers a unique way to immerse yourself in Sedona's breathtaking natural landscapes, combining tranquility with adventure. Just a short drive from Sedona, the Verde River is one of Arizona’s only free-flowing rivers, providing a lush riparian habitat amid the high desert. Its serene waters are perfect for adventurers of all skill levels who seek to experience Sedona and the surrounding Verde Valley from a fresh perspective.

Adventure Guide To Kayaking on Verde River

1. Clarkdale to Tuzigoot National Monument

This popular kayaking stretch begins near Clarkdale, about 30 minutes from Sedona, and flows downstream toward Tuzigoot National Monument. The route offers calm Class I waters and incredible scenery—highlighted by cottonwood, willow trees, and occasional sightings of bald eagles. With stunning views of Tuzigoot Pueblo at the journey’s end, this is a great option for beginner kayakers or those seeking a relaxing ride.

2. Verde River @ Dead Horse Ranch State Park

Located in Cottonwood, just 25 miles from Sedona, this section of the Verde River is ideal for families or paddlers looking for easy access and shorter rides. The park offers kayak rentals, picnic areas, and convenient put-ins for the waterway. The surrounding area is vibrant with wildlife, including herons, otters, and beavers, making it perfect for nature lovers.

3. Adventure Packages with Verde Adventures

For those looking for a guided experience, Verde Adventures offers a "Water to Wine" package. This includes a relaxing paddle down the Verde River, ending at a lush vineyard for wine-tasting. This unique excursion combines nature and leisure, making it highly popular.

Local Insights

The Verde River was designated as one of the country’s Wild and Scenic Rivers in 1984, recognizing its pristine beauty and ecological importance. It's also deeply significant to local tribes and was historically a critical lifeline for early settlers.

Visitor Tips

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall, when temperatures are mild.
What to Bring: Sunscreen, reusable water bottles, water shoes, and dry bags for phones or cameras.
Directions from Sedona: Take AZ-89A South to Clarkdale; it’s a scenic 30-minute drive.

Reviews

Night Rider Taxi by Franny Rose3 years ago

I appreciate that the river is being looked after these days! We live in a desert, we gotta respect and preserve our natural resources!

Liana McKinley6 years ago

Very beautiful waters. I didn't catch anything but it's very peaceful.

Nancy Damone6 years ago

Beautiful River in the Arizona desert. You tend to feel like you're one of the few people on the planet when you are here. You may see the occasional Wild Horse, jackrabbit, fish or snake ground squirrel, gopher, egret, coyote... an abundance of Wildlife. Truly a beautiful wild place.

Brandon Carnicle2 months ago

We recently embarked on a canoeing and kayaking trip along the Verde River from Childs to Horseshoe Lake, and it was an unforgettable experience! The natural beauty of this area is truly spectacular, with the river winding through some of the most breathtaking landscapes Arizona has to offer. The lush greenery and towering canyon walls surrounding the river create a picture-perfect backdrop for your journey, making you feel like you’re paddling through a hidden gem. That being said, this trip is not for the faint of heart. The Verde River presents a serious challenge, with rapids that can quickly turn treacherous. At several points, we found ourselves slammed into reeds, downed trees, or forced through narrow, blinding shoots of overgrowth. It’s easy to underestimate just how difficult the river can be—one wrong move, and you’ll find yourself battling the current or navigating tricky obstacles. If you’re planning to take on this trip, be prepared for some intense paddling and technical maneuvering. Our group of 11 had 5 canoes and 1 kayak, and by the end of the trip, everyone was bruised and battered. We even had a couple of canoes that were completely wrecked, and several others needed repairs. It’s a testament to how rough this section of the river can get. You’ll want to make sure your equipment is up to the challenge and that you’re ready to endure some wear and tear along the way. Despite the hardships, though, the journey was absolutely worth it. For those who crave adventure and are up for a physical and mental challenge, the Verde River is a thrilling, rewarding experience. It’s a wild, untamed section of nature, and conquering it is no small feat. But when you’re sitting back at camp, sore but satisfied, you’ll be glad you took the plunge. In the end, this is a trip we’ll remember for a long time. It’s tough, unpredictable, and definitely not for beginners, but if you’re an experienced paddler looking for a serious adventure in an awe-inspiring setting, the Verde River won’t disappoint.

Adri2 months ago

Great out door fun!! So nice !! Bring the family!! Love coming here!!