How To: Kayak Horseshoe Bend

**An Overnight Kayaking Adventure at Horseshoe Bend: How to Hire a Backhaul Service at Lees Ferry**

The magnificent curve of the Colorado River known as Horseshoe Bend is a mesmerizing sight. While many travelers are satisfied with gazing at its beauty from the overlook, a select few opt for a more immersive experience: kayaking its gentle waves. For those intrepid souls, hiring a backhaul service at Lees Ferry is the key. Here’s how to do it.

**1. Understand the Basics**

Before diving into the details of hiring a backhaul service, it’s essential to understand its purpose. Backhauling is the process of transporting kayakers and their equipment upstream, allowing them to paddle downstream at their own pace, thus avoiding the strenuous task of paddling against the river’s current.

**2. Research Backhaul Service Providers**

There are several outfitters and service providers at Lees Ferry that offer backhaul services. (I have used Lees Ferry On the Fly twice and have had great experiences with them for $70 each person.) It’s advisable to:

- **Do Online Research:** Websites, reviews, and online forums provide insights into the experiences of past adventurers.

- **Make Phone Calls:** Contact the service providers directly to ask questions, understand costs, and gauge their customer service.

**3. Make Reservations**

Once you’ve chosen a backhaul service provider:

- **Book in Advance:** Especially during peak seasons, these services can be in high demand. Ensure your spot by booking well in advance.

- **Specify Requirements:** If you have any specific needs or concerns, such as rental equipment or dietary restrictions for potential meals, make them known during the booking.

**4. Prep for the Trip**

Once you've secured your backhaul service:

- **Pack Essentials:** This includes drinking water, food, camping gear (if planning to camp along the way), and sun protection. You can bring your own kayak or rent one from the backhaul agencies.

- **Know the Route:** Familiarize yourself with the stretch of the river you’ll be kayaking, especially potential stopping points, hazards, and camping spots.

- **Safety First:** Ensure you have life vests, a first-aid kit, and a means of communication (like a satellite phone).

**5. The Day of the Adventure**

- **Arrive Early:** Make sure you get to Lees Ferry with ample time to meet with your backhaul provider, load up your gear, and get briefed.

- **Enjoy the Ride:** The backhaul will allow you to take in the scenery without the strain of paddling. It’s a great opportunity to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.

- **Paddle and Camp:** Once dropped off, you’re on your own to paddle, explore, and camp along the banks. Remember, the beauty of Horseshoe Bend is best appreciated when you take your time.

**Designated Campsites Between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry:**

**1. Ferry Swale Campsite**:

- **Location:** Just a couple of miles downstream from the dam.

- **Features:** This campsite has a large sandy beach, making it suitable for larger groups. The back area is vegetated, offering some shade in the afternoon.

**2. Ropes Trail Campsite**:

- **Location:** Approximately 4 miles from the dam.

- **Features:** This campsite is at the base of a historical river runner's trail. The site is sandy with some rock outcroppings. It offers fantastic views of the surrounding cliffs.

**3. 8.5 Mile Rock Campsite**:

- **Location:** As the name suggests, it's 8.5 miles downstream from the dam.

- **Features:** This site has a smaller sandy area with some rocky sections. It's ideal for smaller groups or solo paddlers.

**4. 9 Mile Campsite**:

- **Location:** About 9 miles from Glen Canyon Dam.

- **Features:** A popular spot, this campsite is relatively large with a sandy beach. It's nestled between some tall cliffs, providing shade in the late afternoon and shelter from winds.

**5. Cathedral Wash Campsite**:

- **Location:** Roughly 11 miles downstream from the dam.

- **Features:** Named after the nearby Cathedral Wash – a popular hiking spot. The campsite is a combination of sand and rock, with some vegetation. This site is excellent for those looking to do a short hike during their stay.

**6. Spencer Campsite**:

- **Location:** Located about 13 miles from the dam, close to Lees Ferry.

- **Features:** This campsite is relatively secluded compared to the others. It's a sandy area with some shade provided by the cliffs. It's a favorite for birdwatchers as the area has a plethora of bird species.

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**Points to Consider**:

- **Permits**: That’s the beautiful part, no permits needed for the overnight trip!

- **Pack It In, Pack It Out**: Always remember the Leave No Trace principles. The area is pristine and should remain that way for future generations.

- **Safety**: Always keep an eye on the weather forecast. The desert environment can experience sudden changes, and flash floods can be a concern, especially if you plan to explore side canyons.

**6. The Journey Ends**

Your journey will likely end where it started, at Lees Ferry. But with the memories you've made and the sights you've seen, the adventure truly never ends.

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Embarking on an overnight kayaking trip along Horseshoe Bend is an experience like no other. Hiring a backhaul service at Lees Ferry not only facilitates the journey but also adds a unique dimension to the adventure. With preparation and the right service provider, your trip will surely be one for the books!

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In this age of rapid change, landscape photography and videography are more important than ever. As the planet grapples with the consequences of our actions, these portraits of the Earth's soul serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder of our duty to protect the fragile balance of life on this pale blue dot.

In conclusion, landscape photography and videography are not only artistic expressions but also a vital means of fostering understanding, empathy, and stewardship for our environment. Through these visual stories, we are reminded of our interconnectedness with the natural world, and of the extraordinary beauty that surrounds us.