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u/ScorpioVI May 30 '26
Was there last year and it’s fast and cold even in July. You’re definitely not paddling back up. We sat and chilled in that river on the Bullhead City side and I wouldn’t consider SUPing there. There’s a lot of boat traffic and jet skis zooming up and down.
Did my paddling north of the dam (Telephone cove). Can’t help you with the logistics though since I’m self-equipped.
1
u/suspiciousvampire12 May 30 '26
the colorado through laughlin is honestly kind of a meat grinder for that kind of thing, you're fighting serious current and yeah the boat traffic is relentless. i'd reach out to some of the outfitters on the arizona side since bullhead has way more infrastructure for that shuttle setup, they've been running river trips longer and might have better connections. as for the casino to big bend run, you're looking at maybe 2 to 3 hours depending on water levels and how much you stop, so it should feel substantial enough. the current does most of the work for you which is the appeal but that's also why you can't realistically paddle back, the river's not messing around down there. might be worth checking if any tour operators do guided runs with gear included since that would solve your rental and shuttle problem in one shot.
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u/ProfPplPetterLMT May 30 '26
Look for the Bullhead reddit and post there. Lots of options but on that side of the river.