Frequently
Asked Questions

Early 2027 — by March 1 at the latest, and we expect to be back on the water as early as February. Canyon Lake is lowered right now so SRP can inspect and maintain the dams, work that only happens about once every 20 years. Our full 2027 schedule is already open for booking. Read the full update →

No experience needed — zero. Every rental starts with a short safety and paddling briefing from one of our crew. Most people feel comfortable within 5–10 minutes on the water. We genuinely want you to have a great time, not struggle.

Paddling is very safe when you follow basic guidelines. Every participant wears a properly fitted life jacket (PFD) on the water — no exceptions. We provide a briefing covering safety rules, what to do if you fall in, and how to paddle efficiently. Our guides are trained in water safety and first aid.

We welcome all ages. Kids can ride along in a tandem kayak with an adult. There's no minimum age, but children must be able to wear a properly fitting PFD and follow basic safety instructions. For very young kids, we recommend a tandem kayak rather than a paddleboard.

It happens! Wear clothes you're okay getting wet. Your life jacket keeps you afloat and we'll cover re-entry technique in the briefing. Canyon Lake is generally calm — falling in is more of a funny story than a big deal.

Every rental includes: the watercraft (kayak or paddleboard), an adjustable paddle, a properly fitted personal flotation device (PFD/life jacket), and a pre-paddle safety briefing. You do not need to bring any gear — just yourself, sunscreen, and water.

Kayaks and paddleboards start at $35. Fishing kayaks start at $75. You'll see exact rates for every rental when you book online, and booking online saves you $5 over in-person pricing. See self-guided rentals →

Yes! We accept cash and credit/debit cards. Exact change appreciated but not required.

Single kayaks are sit-on-top, stable, and great for solo paddlers. Tandem kayaks fit two people — great for pairs or a parent + child. PDL fishing kayaks have a pedal drive so your hands stay free for fishing. Standard fishing kayaks are paddle-powered with rod holders and gear storage.

Yes — we provide the kayak and gear, but a valid Arizona fishing license is your responsibility. You can purchase one online through Arizona Game & Fish before your trip.

We strongly recommend booking online in advance, especially on weekends and holidays. Walk-ups are welcome when we have availability, but we can't always guarantee a spot. Booking online also saves time at check-in.

Cancel at least 24 hours in advance to receive a rain check for a future date. The full policy is shown when you book online.

We paddle rain or shine! If we hear thunder, we wait 30 minutes after the last rumble before heading back out, and if the wind picks up, we hang tight until it calms down. It's a short break to keep everyone safe — then it's back to the water. Bring a light layer just in case.

Yes — all participants must sign a liability waiver. You can sign online in advance through our booking system (recommended), or at check-in. Minors require a parent or guardian signature.

16802 AZ-88, Apache Junction, AZ 85119 — about 45 minutes east of Phoenix via US-60 and AZ-88 (Apache Trail). It's a scenic drive through the Superstition Mountains. Download directions before you leave — cell service drops near the lake.

Cell service is notoriously spotty at Canyon Lake. Text us at (480) 420-8144 and the message will go through when you get signal. Better yet — book online in advance and arrive 15 minutes early. We'll be there ready for you.

Yes — Canyon Lake Marina has on-site parking. Cell service is spotty on the way out, so download directions in advance and book online before you leave.

Daily guided tours run 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM (2.5 hours). Full Moon Paddles run about 2.5 hours, and the start time follows moonrise, so you’ll see the exact time when you book online. View the full calendar →

All equipment (craft, paddle, PFD), a knowledgeable guide who leads the route, safety briefing, and access to canyon areas and coves not easily found on a solo rental. Tours are kept to small groups for a better experience.

Join our Birthday Club and get a free 2-hour kayak or paddleboard rental during your birthday week. After you sign up, we'll send your code. It's valid 7 days before or after your birthday, for the birthday person only, and photo ID is required.

Arizona season passes are valid at Canyon Lake Marina, AZ. Questions about pass validity at our Texas location? Contact us and we'll sort it out.

Canyon Lake peak season runs October through May, and we operate year-round weather permitting. (Canyon Lake is lowered for dam work until early 2027.) Your pass is valid for the full season from purchase date.

Absolutely. Purchase a pass and we'll send a gift certificate the recipient can redeem. Or check out our gift cards which can be used toward any purchase including passes.

We recommend reaching out at least 2–3 weeks in advance for groups of 20 or more, and 1 week for smaller groups. Popular dates (weekends, holidays, summer) book up fast. The earlier the better.

Our group packages are designed for 10 or more people. For smaller groups, you can book regular rentals directly through our booking system — no group package needed.

Yes — we work with corporate groups regularly and offer customized pricing for team-building events. Fill out our group inquiry form and mention it's a corporate event for a custom quote.