Hoover Dam Tour and Colorado River Float

The Hoover Dam Tour and Colorado River Float offers an engaging blend of engineering marvels and natural beauty. Priced at $292.39 per person, this 6 hour 30 minute experience from Las Vegas includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, making it an easy way to explore this iconic site without renting a car. The tour is ideal for fans of engineering, history, and scenic landscapes, with a maximum group size of just 10 travelers to ensure personalized attention.

While interior access to the Hoover Dam is currently closed due to COVID-19 restrictions, the tour compensates with an immersive float trip on the Colorado River, a guided visit to the dam’s exterior and power plant, and spectacular views of Lake Mead and Black Canyon. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and good value, though the float trip itself is described as relaxing and simple—not a wild adventure. This tour suits those seeking a well-rounded, informative, and scenic experience.

Key Points

• Includes a scenic raft float on the Colorado River with snacks and stunning river views
• Guided tour of Hoover Dam from above and on the power plant’s exterior
• Round-trip transportation from most Las Vegas hotels included
• Tour duration is approximately 6 hours 30 minutes
• Group size limited to 10 travelers for a more personalized experience
• Tour price of $292.39 covers all activities, snacks, lunch, and boat fees

Starting Point: Convenient Hotel Pickup in Las Vegas

This tour begins with pickups from most Las Vegas hotels, saving travelers the hassle of renting a car. The departure time is 9:00 am, and the experience follows a carefully planned itinerary that balances land visits with the float trip. The fully guided tour ensures you receive engaging commentary and insights throughout the day.

The Scenic Drive Through Boulder City

Your journey starts with a drive through historic Boulder City, where your guide shares stories about this charming town’s history. The drive sets the tone for the day, offering glimpses of local architecture and the area’s connection to the dam’s construction. This scenic route prepares you for the spectacular views ahead.

Visiting Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam

One of the tour’s highlights is viewing Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States. Your guide explains its significance and the surrounding area’s landscape. The visit then moves to the Hoover Dam, where you can observe the massive structure from the exterior, with plenty of time to explore the small gift shop and take photos.

The Hoover Dam Power Plant Tour

Although interior access to the electric turbines is limited at present, the tour includes a walk around the exterior of the dam and a visit to the power plant with a Bureau of Reclamation guide. You learn how this engineering feat manages to generate electricity for millions of people, with live presentations, exhibits, and a film explaining its construction and operation.

The Colorado River Float Experience

The float trip is a 90-minute scenic raft ride on the Colorado River. You’ll drift near the dam and see concrete slabs, steps, and rails used during its construction. The raft tour offers an up-close view of the dam, the bypass bridge, and the Black Canyon, with photo opportunities of the Hoover Dam Bypass, a 2,000-foot bridge built in 2010. A snack, provided by Black Canyon River Adventures, accompanies the float.

Visiting the Hoover Dam from the Arizona Side

After the raft, the tour moves to the Arizona side of the dam, where you can see the structure from above. You’ll have time to explore at your own pace, visit the visitor center, and learn more about its history. The guide walks you along the dam, sharing interesting narration about the area, construction, and history.

Viewing Lake Mead and Black Canyon from the Overlook

The tour includes a drive along Lower Portal Road, offering stunning vistas of Lake Mead and Black Canyon. You’ll see the original gauging station and dynamite storage bunkers used during the dam’s construction, providing an authentic glimpse into the project’s scale and scope.

The Tour Experience: Balance of Scenery and Education

This experience excels at providing a mix of scenic vistas, historical insights, and engineering marvels. The guides are praised consistently for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making complex topics accessible and engaging. The short duration of the float makes it accessible even for those who prefer a relaxed pace, with no need for physical exertion beyond boarding the raft.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Participants should be able to get in and out of the boat without assistance. The group size of 10 ensures a comfortable experience but also means booking in advance is essential, especially during peak times. The tour is suitable for children aged 3 and older, ideal for families or groups seeking a leisurely yet comprehensive adventure.

Overall Value and Suitability

The $292.39 price covers all activities, transportation, snacks, and lunch, offering good value considering the inclusions. Reviewers emphasize the professional guides and spectacular views, making it a worthwhile addition to a Las Vegas itinerary. However, those expecting interior dam access should note the current restrictions.

Final Thoughts on the Hoover Dam and Colorado River Float Tour

This tour provides a well-rounded experience of the Hoover Dam, balancing land-based exploration with an up-close river float. The guided commentary and scenic drives enrich understanding, making it suitable for history buffs, engineering enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Its small-group format creates a more personalized environment, and the convenient hotel pickup simplifies logistics.

While interior access is limited at present, the spectacular views, informative guides, and serene raft ride compensate with plenty of memorable moments. It’s especially recommended for visitors who appreciate education paired with stunning scenery and prefer a relaxed pace over adrenaline-filled adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours 30 minutes.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, round-trip transportation is included from most Las Vegas hotels.

Is the interior of Hoover Dam accessible?
Currently, interior access is closed due to COVID-19 restrictions, but the exterior and power plant are included.

What is included in the float trip?
The 90-minute raft ride on the Colorado River features snacks and offers views of the dam and Black Canyon.

Are there any physical requirements?
Participants must be able to get in and out of the boat without assistance.

Can children participate?
Yes, the minimum age is 3 years old.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 travelers for a more personal experience.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera for photos, and wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch (a sandwich and chips, with gluten-free options) and bottled water are provided.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Hoover Dam Tour and Colorado River Float combines scenic beauty, educational highlights, and convenience, making it an accessible way to experience one of America’s most impressive engineering feats.