GUNLOCK KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Desert Canyons by Paddle: Two Hours Among Gunlock’s Waterfalls, Caves and Petroglyphs
A two-hour guided kayak eco-tour with Dig Paddlesports through Gunlock State Park’s swimming holes, seasonal waterfalls and hidden alcoves — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Desert Canyons by Paddle: Two Hours Among Gunlock’s Waterfalls, Caves and Petroglyphs.
Gunlock State Park’s compact desert-water landscape unfolds quickly from the cockpit of a kayak: turquoise swimming holes, sandstone islands and seasonal waterfalls punctuate a two-hour, guide-led paddle with Dig Paddlesports. Depending on water levels the route threads alcoves, caves and even petroglyph panels, promising a concentrated, unforgettable wilderness encounter in a desert setting.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Swimming holes & seasonal waterfalls
A central draw of the tour is paddling into the park’s clear swimming holes and to the famed seasonal waterfalls when water levels allow — prime spots for cooling off and taking in the canyon scenery.
Caves, alcoves and petroglyphs
Depending on conditions the guides steer toward hidden alcoves and caves along the shorelines, and where present, petroglyph panels offer a human history counterpoint to the geological drama.
Sandstone islands and cliff-jumping spots
The paddle can pass sandstone islands and cliff-jumping spots and weave adjacent hiking trails into the outing when water and logistics permit, creating a varied day on the water.
What the day feels like
What the two-hour eco-tour feels like
This is a compact, guided experience: a two-hour paddle led by experienced staff that moves deliberately from beach launches to scenic swimming holes, seasonal waterfalls and shore features. The emphasis is on exploration — stopping to swim, inspect alcoves and view rock art when accessible — all paced to fit the short-window format.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most out of this outing — and what to keep in mind before you book.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The experience runs two hours.
Check in at the rental location; staff will hold a valid, current government-issued ID (passports or military ID are acceptable), fit you for a vest and paddle, provide a brief orientation and then direct you to your craft on the beach.
Wear a bathing suit or clothes you don’t mind getting wet. If sensitive to sun, bring a hat and long sleeves. Bring sunscreen (reef-safe sunscreen is sold on site) and water (bottled water is available for purchase).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Kayak Eco-Tour?
The tour duration is two hours.
Where do I check in and what ID is required?
Check in at the rental location; the operator holds a valid, current government-issued ID while you are out. Passports or military ID are acceptable forms of ID.
Do you provide equipment and instruction?
The team fits participants for vests and paddles and provides a brief orientation and instruction before directing you to your craft.
What should I bring for the trip?
Wear a bathing suit or clothing you don’t mind getting wet; bring sun protection such as a hat and long sleeves if sensitive to sun. Sunscreen (reef-safe) and bottled water are available for purchase.
Will the tour visit waterfalls and petroglyphs every time?
Stops depend on water levels; when conditions allow, the route includes swimming holes, seasonal waterfalls, alcoves, caves and petroglyphs.