Clarkdale Kayak Co.: Verde River Kayak Tours
Just 25 minutes from Sedona in historic Clarkdale, Clarkdale Kayak Co. puts you on one of Arizona's most scenic waterways. Paddle 3.5 miles of the Verde River through lush canyon scenery in stable, sit-on-top inflatable kayaks designed for beginners, families, and experienced paddlers alike.
Every experience includes a kayak, paddle, Coast Guard-approved life vest, dry bag, bottled water, and shuttle service to and from the river. Guided Tour and Paddles to Pints experiences also include a certified local guide. No prior kayaking experience is required for guided tours.
What Makes Clarkdale Kayak Co. Special
The Verde River is one of Arizona's few remaining free-flowing rivers, and this scenic stretch is a hidden oasis of cottonwood shade, canyon walls, clear water, birds, and wildlife.
Certified local guides share the river's history, point out wildlife, and introduce guests to hidden spots along the way, so you come off the water knowing the Verde, not just floating it.
Trips depart from the Dream West Caboose at 900 Main Street in Clarkdale, with shuttle service to and from the river included. Expect approximately two hours on the water and about two and a half hours for the complete experience.
Choose Your Adventure
Guided Tour: The signature Verde River experience. Paddle 3.5 miles of canyon scenery with a certified local guide sharing river history, wildlife information, and hidden spots along the way. $98 + tax per person; children ages 5–12 paddle for $74.50 + tax.
Self-Guided: Experienced on the water? Skip the guide and explore at your own pace. Kayak, paddle, safety equipment, and shuttle service are included. $74.50 + tax per person, ages 18+.
Paddles to Pints: Enjoy the complete guided kayak tour followed by two craft pints or a flight at Smelter Town Brewing in historic Clarkdale. $117 + tax per person, ages 21+.
What Guests Love
- Stable inflatable kayaks that are easy for first-time paddlers
- Calm, beginner-friendly water with a few small, fun chutes and riffles
- Friendly, certified guides with extensive local knowledge
- Wildlife and birdwatching in a beautiful riparian oasis
- Family-friendly guided tours for children ages 5–12
- Kayak equipment, safety gear, water, and transportation included
General Review Score
Rated 4.9 out of 5 on TripAdvisor from more than 700 reviews, and 4.8 out of 5 on Google
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, quality equipment, and beginner-friendly experience.
Current Prices
- Guided Tour: $98 + tax per person
- Guided Tour, Child ages 5–12: $74.50 + tax
- Self-Guided: $74.50 + tax per person, ages 18+
- Paddles to Pints: $117 + tax per person, ages 21+
- Gift cards available
Prices are subject to change. Check current rates and availability before booking.
Additional Information
- Departure point: Dream West Caboose, 900 Main Street, Clarkdale, Arizona
- Located approximately 25 minutes from Sedona
- The season runs from March through November, with multiple daily departure times subject to availability
- Arrive 45 minutes before your scheduled launch time
- The shuttle cannot return for late arrivals once the trip has departed
- Book online for current dates and departure times, or call 800-478-4711 for same-day availability
- Kayaks comfortably accommodate paddlers weighing up to 300 pounds
- Wear athletic shoes, river shoes, or secure sandals that can get wet; flip-flops are not recommended
- Quick-drying clothing, sunscreen, a sun hat, and a change of clothes are recommended
- Small bookings may be combined with other parties for a shared guided experience
FAQs About Clarkdale Kayak Co.
Do I need kayaking experience?
Not at all. The sit-on-top inflatable kayaks are stable and easy to paddle, and a certified guide provides the instruction you need before launching. The Self-Guided option is recommended for paddlers with prior kayaking experience.
Can I bring children?
Yes. Children ages 5–12 are welcome on the Guided Tour for $74.50 + tax. Children can ride in a tandem kayak with a parent or guardian when needed. Teens ages 13 and older pay adult pricing.
Is the river safe? Are there rapids?
This 3.5-mile stretch is considered one of Arizona's most beginner-friendly river routes. It consists primarily of calm, scenic water with a few small chutes and riffles, but no technical whitewater or major rapids. Every paddler wears a Coast Guard-approved life vest, and certified guides know the river and its changing conditions.
What is included?
Every experience includes a kayak, paddle, Coast Guard-approved life vest, dry bag, bottled water, and shuttle service to and from the river. Guided Tour and Paddles to Pints experiences also include a certified river guide.
How long is the trip?
You will spend approximately two hours on the water while covering 3.5 miles of the Verde River. The complete experience, including shuttle transportation from the Dream West Caboose, takes approximately two and a half hours.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a sun hat, athletic or river shoes, quick-drying clothing, and a change of clothes for after the trip. You may also bring snacks or a light lunch.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Light rain does not automatically cancel a trip. Clarkdale Kayak Co. cancels tours when lightning, high winds, or river conditions make kayaking unsafe. If the company cancels your trip, you may receive a full refund or rebook at no additional charge.
Make It a Full Day
Pair your Verde River adventure with an evening at Blazin' M Ranch, Arizona's only Western dinner show, just minutes away in Cottonwood. Explore a frontier town, enjoy Western activities and a ranch-style BBQ dinner, and finish the evening with a live Western comedy musical show.
Kayaks and cowboys make the perfect Verde Valley day trip.