Sedona, Arizona, is famous for its striking red rock formations, clear blue skies, and a landscape that seems to invite exploration at every turn. While hiking and Jeep tours get a lot of attention, paddling on the Verde River offers a unique way to enjoy this remarkable scenery from the water. Whether you’re a beginner eager to dip your toes or an experienced kayaker seeking a private adventure, Sedona’s river experiences provide a refreshing and memorable perspective. We’re especially fond of the Kayak Tour on the Verde River for its mix of gentle rapids and peaceful stretches—perfect for families and first-timers alike.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through six of the best canoe and kayak experiences in Sedona. From group outings to private guided trips, each offers something special—whether it’s the scenic beauty, the personalized service, or the added adventures like swimming or fishing. Keep reading to find the one that suits your style and makes your Sedona visit even more memorable.
1. Kayak Tour on the Verde River
At number 1 is the Kayak Tour on the Verde River, which earns a perfect 5.0 rating from over 500 reviews. This family-friendly experience combines a relaxed paddle with just enough excitement to keep everyone engaged. It’s set on a 3.1-mile stretch of the Verde River that features gentle Class I and II rapids—ideal for beginners and those looking for a scenic float with a bit of thrill.
The tour is very well reviewed for its small group size, which guarantees personalized guidance and safety. All equipment, including inflatable kayaks and safety gear, is included along with a shuttle service. The trip lasts about 2.5 hours, making it an easy addition to your day. You’ll admire the lush scenery along the riverbank while learning about local history from guides who go above and beyond.
What makes this trip stand out is its balance of adventure and relaxation. It’s perfect for families, first-timers, and anyone wanting a gentle introduction to kayaking while soaking in Sedona’s natural beauty. And with the recent accolades as one of the top 20 experiences in the USA, it’s clear this tour offers excellent value.
Bottom line: For a fun, guided, and scenic river outing, this tour hits all the right notes—great for all ages and skill levels.
2. PRIVATE GUIDED River Kayaking the Verde River With 4×4 UTV RIDE
The second spot on our list is the private experience that combines a guided kayak trip with an off-road adventure in a 4×4 UTV. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 59 reviews, this tour offers a personalized, exclusive experience designed for small groups up to 10 people. The trip begins with a UTV ride through Arizona’s rugged terrain to the launch point, enhancing the sense of adventure even before you hit the water.
Once on the river, your guide will lead you through a scenic and leisurely paddle, stopping at water holes to swim and cool off. This tour emphasizes a more intimate experience, with all kayaking equipment provided, and the focus is on safety, fun, and seeing more of the Verde River than you could on your own. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a combination of off-road excitement and river exploration, with the added bonus of swimming breaks.
Guests praise this trip for its informative guides, personalized approach, and the dog-friendly policy, making it ideal for travelers who want a flexible and private adventure. It’s a great option if you prefer a more tailored experience with less crowding and more one-on-one attention.
Bottom line: If you’re after a private, customizable kayaking trip with a bit of off-road fun and swimming, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable day.
3. From Cottonwood: Guided Kayaking Tour on the Verde River
Next up is the Guided Kayaking Tour originating from Cottonwood, which has a stellar 4.9 rating from 77 reviews. This tour provides a great way to experience Arizona’s last free-flowing river with top-quality inflatable kayaks and an expert guide leading the way. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours and covers sections with Class I and II rapids, offering just enough splash and excitement without overwhelming beginners.
The guide shares insights about the local wildlife and flora, enriching your understanding of the environment. You’ll explore waters created by a dam, and have the chance to plunge into a swimming hole—an excellent way to cool down in the warmer months. The focus here is on comfort, safety, and education, making it ideal for travelers eager to learn while paddling.
Reviews highlight the professional guiding and the fun of cruising on this river. It’s suited for families, groups, or solo travelers looking for a well-organized trip with scenic views and some light rapids.
Bottom line: This guided tour is perfect for those wanting a reliable, educational experience with the chance for a quick swim and wildlife spotting.
4. Scenic Guided Kayak Trip
The Scenic Guided Kayak Trip offers an approximately 2.5-hour paddle down the Verde River, earning a perfect 5.0 rating from 11 reviews. Led by Clarkdale Kayak Co, this tour balances light adventure with scenic beauty, featuring Class I rapids and peaceful stretches.
What makes this trip stand out is the knowledgeable guide, Bill, who shares detailed information about the area’s natural features and history. The tour includes a stop at Smeltzer Town Brewery, a charming bonus that adds a relaxing post-paddle activity. The experience is suitable for all skill levels, and the guide’s attentiveness really enhances the trip’s comfort and enjoyment.
Guests appreciate the informative narration and the easy pace, making it a good choice for those new to kayaking or travelers seeking a laid-back yet engaging outing. The mix of river adventure and local flavor makes this a well-rounded choice.
Bottom line: For a scenic, educational, and relaxed kayak experience with extra local flavor, this trip offers excellent value.
5. Kayak Fishing on the Verde River Cottonwood, AZ 20Min From Sedona
For a more specialized experience, the Kayak Fishing trip is the top choice. Priced at $350 per person and lasting around 4 hours, this full-day outing is perfect if you’re interested in catching fish while avoiding crowds. The guide takes you in your own kayak to the best fishing spots along the Verde River, with all gear provided.
This tour shines for its focus on fishing in private river runs, giving anglers the chance to target species like bass and catfish. It’s ideal for those who already enjoy fishing or want to learn in a quiet, natural setting. The reviews highlight Caleb’s knowledge of the water and his enthusiasm, making it a top pick for a dedicated fishing trip.
It’s a more physically demanding and longer tour, suited for those comfortable with paddling and fishing all day. If your goal is to combine fishing and paddling in a scenic setting, this tour is a winning choice.
Bottom line: For anglers wanting a full-day, guide-led kayak fishing adventure, this experience offers great value and expertise.
6. Pedal and Paddle Wine Tour in Arizona
Finally, we have the Pedal and Paddle Wine Tour, which combines a scenic river float with a visit to Alcantara Vineyard. With a 4.0 rating from 4 reviews, this tour is perfect for wine lovers and those seeking a more leisurely activity. Starting with an e-bike tour through the vineyard, you learn about local varietals and enjoy tasting in the barrel room.
Afterward, you’ll float down the Verde River for about an hour and a half, ending back at the vineyard for more wine and food tasting. This tour offers a relaxing pace, ideal for travelers who want to experience Sedona’s natural beauty alongside some excellent wine. It’s a well-rounded day that blends outdoor activity with tasting Arizona’s finest wines.
Reviewers praise the entertaining guide and the quality of the wine tastings, making it a unique way to enjoy Sedona’s landscape and vino. The combination of cycling, floating, and tasting makes it suitable for those who prefer a less intense, more indulgent experience.
Bottom line: This tour offers a perfect mix of light activity and luxury, suited for wine enthusiasts and those looking for a laid-back, scenic day.
How to Choose the Best Canoe & Kayak Experience in Sedona
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you’re a family or first-timer, the Kayak Tour on the Verde River provides a safe, guided introduction. For those seeking privacy or a combination of off-road fun, the Private Guided River Kayaking offers a more personalized adventure.
If fishing is your goal, the Kayak Fishing trip combines paddling with angling in quiet, private waters. For a relaxed, scenic paddle that includes a brewery stop, the Scenic Guided Kayak Trip is ideal. And if you’re a wine lover, the Pedal and Paddle Wine Tour blends outdoor activity with tastings, perfect for a leisurely day.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons in spring and fall when Sedona’s weather is ideal for water activities. Consider your preferred pace—whether a casual float or a lively adventure—and your group’s comfort with physical activity.
Final Thoughts
Sedona’s diverse landscape makes it an excellent place for canoe and kayak experiences, whether you’re seeking gentle scenic floats, private guided trips, or fishing adventures. The Kayak Tour on the Verde River is our top pick for beginners and families, offering a mix of fun and scenery. For a more exclusive experience, the private UTV-guided trip provides intimacy and adventure, while the fishing tour caters to anglers looking for a full-day of relaxation and sport.
No matter what you choose, these water-based tours in Sedona promise a memorable and refreshing way to see this stunning area—so don’t wait too long to book your spot.