Paddle to Hell: Two Canyons SUP Trip Review & Guide

So, you’re thinking about checking out the ‘Paddle to Hell’ guided stand-up paddleboard trip through Two Canyons? Well, get ready for a day that is pretty awesome! It’s almost like something you read about or see in pictures. Located near Page, Arizona, this experience gives you some unreal views of slot canyons and the expansive Lake Powell. Is that your thing? This review breaks down just about everything from start to finish, what to expect, and just how strenuous it is, or isn’t, so you can decide if it’s the adventure for you.

What’s the Deal with “Paddle to Hell”?

The name might sound a bit intense, like something right out of a dark movie, yet trust me, the only thing hellish about this paddle is how amazing the views are. Really, Two Canyons gets its cool name because, as you may imagine, it snakes you through a couple of slot canyons. The narrow passageways are carved out by water and wind over a lot of time. Light filtering through the top makes the sandstone walls appear very cool and magical, so, really, prepare to be awed.

Booking Your Spot

Booking this tour tends to be fairly easy. You can actually do it through a bunch of local tour operators in Page, Arizona. Make sure, of course, to check for available times and pricing as those might shift depending on the time of year. Like, in my case, I booked a few weeks in advance during the shoulder season to ensure I could go on the day I wanted, though it may be different with you.

What to Look for When Booking:

• Group Size: What’s that? Smaller groups may mean you get much more personalized attention.
• Included Gear: Make sure, like super-duper sure, that the price covers your paddleboard, paddle, personal flotation device (PFD), and perhaps even a dry bag for your essentials.
• Transportation: You’ll want to find out if they handle transport to and from the launch point. This might matter based on where you’re staying and whether you want to get lost getting there.

Getting There and Gearing Up

Okay, the adventure gets going right from the meet-up spot in Page. Like, in our case, a shuttle bus picked us up and drove us to a marina on Lake Powell. The ride to the launch spot is also very awesome; you can see views of the desert scenery and talk with others excited about the trip. Once you get there, the tour guides give a security briefing, fitting you with your PFD, and then they give you a SUP lesson for first-timers.

What to Bring:

• Sun Protection: Really bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat since the desert sun can be fairly brutal.
• Water: Staying hydrated is key, especially when you’re getting sun out there and using some power. Bring, maybe, more than you expect to need.
• Water Shoes: You’ll be happier you have them if you plan to go in the water or walk on the shorelines.
• Snacks: Pack something quick and easy, such as protein bars, trail mix, or fruit, just for that little mid-paddle energy.
• Camera: Don’t you dare even think about not capturing the beautiful slot canyons; just make sure it’s waterproof or safely stored in a dry bag.

Paddling Through Two Canyons

You might be asking, how strenuous is it? Well, the paddle itself could be described as calm and suited for most fitness levels. Now and then, though, you will fight some wind. But once you get into the canyons, the water’s calm, and you find yourself getting surrounded by towering sandstone walls. It gets amazing; I swear. Is that how you expect it to be?

Inside the Slot Canyons

When you begin your journey through the narrow slot canyons, it’s just really breathtaking. It is almost like the way the sunlight filters through the narrow openings produces the most unique colors on the sandstone, shifting from deep reds and oranges to light yellows, so you will want to keep that camera handy.

What You’ll See:

• Sandstone Formations: Almost impossibly sculpted walls featuring swirls, curves, and different layers, making them look like nature’s artwork.
• Reflections: As I mentioned before, the water creates reflective surfaces that will duplicate the rock formations above; really cool stuff!
• Wildlife: So, be on the lookout for local birds or small wildlife along the shoreline. Is that something you will like?

The Guided Experience

What I like about a guided trip is that, often times, you are more than just paddling; you will be getting cool insights, too. The tour guides are locals; like, they will share details about the area’s geological past, point out plants and animals, and let you know some of the Native American history related to the area. Seriously, ask all of the questions you have!

Why Go Guided?

• Safety: Is safety something you worry about? Tour guides are first-aid and CPR-trained and also know the waters like the back of their hand.
• Knowledge: Their insights enrich the experience, offering contextual details about the canyons.
• Convenience: It can also just be convenient to not have to bring or rent your own equipment.

Photo Opportunities and Scenic Views

I will say it again; make sure you’ve got your camera ready because this trip is an absolute gold mine for pictures. From the reflective light inside the canyons to the wide desert horizons surrounding Lake Powell, just about everywhere is a spot where you want to make sure that you take pictures.

Picture Perfect Moments:

• Canyon Entrances: So, capture the wide shot that’s very breathtaking as you begin the slot canyons.
• Light Reflections: As you may expect, try catching those plays of light on the water and the walls. They change constantly.
• Group Shots: Are group pictures something you avoid? You might want to get someone to grab a shot of you and your group for that memory to last a lifetime with those walls.

What to Consider Before You Go

Before setting off for your “Paddle to Hell,” just a little preparation goes a long way in making sure it’s enjoyable. A bit, I suggest, so there’s nothing to hold you back. Here’s what I can offer, so you’re really prepared.

Weather Patterns:

I believe you may want to peek at the weather before your trip. Even on those summer days, you could get rained on pretty fast. I wouldn’t want you to be too surprised.

Physical Fitness:

You will almost be surprised by the strength of those with really ripped abs. Seriously though, if you expect it to be a casual journey it won’t hurt you too much.

What to Pack:

I understand you might like packing light. Consider it more though. Make sure to grab anything extra for comfort, safety, and a day in the heat, too.

Know Where:

A heads up about those lake water temperatures. I bet you would think that depending on when you go, it might be frigid. Are you planning on swimming that day? I would check it before.

Staying Safe on Your Tour:

Keeping you safe involves some very useful insights and advice when taking to the canyon on tour. You do need to know, if the need comes up. So what should you do?

1. Make sure to tell someone: Before going on an expedition, give someone all the specifics to assist rescue crews with their search just in case you’re overdue when returning.
2. Get the appropriate clothing: Weather will always be your determinant. Getting some pieces that will make you be comfy as a primary consideration.
3. Don’t risk injuries to yourself: Avoid areas with significant levels of risks of incidents from natural occurrences and animal risks. Stay on a trail marked safe with your support teams.
4. You do want safety systems: Be very certain that a satellite or two way system that won’t rely only on phone service. Then there should never be concern of a potential tragedy.

Paddle to Hell SUP Tour; Is It Worth it?

You know; this guided SUP journey through Two Canyons becomes memorable really easily. The setting mixes adventure with a dose of peace and gives guests something like nothing before ever expected for water tours in Arizona.

Here’s Your Experience for Value:

• Unique Scenery: It is unique, isn’t it, to explore by SUP as a means in this type environment; it is just very exceptional; is that your thought?
• Friendly Instruction: The guides have become pretty useful for novices and will assist greatly from all level experiences if needing additional tutelage.
• Photo Ops like Crazy: Every paddle turn is now becoming increasingly more picture-worthy while traveling through geological wonders.
• Great Day: So will that be what you’ll do? When looking to make days count during outings in Arizona, put down to mark off for it!

Frequently Asked Questions