5 LESSONS FROM PADDLE BOARDING GLEN CANYON

To fully enjoy paddleboarding, make sure to have high-quality equipment. A sturdy paddleboard and paddle will make your trip more comfortable and safe. Additionally, you'll need wet-suits, dry bags, quick-release belt, camping gear, including a tent, sleeping bag, and cooking supplies.

  Take a guided tour or backhaul:

If you're new to paddleboarding, consider taking a guided tour. An experienced guide will take you to the best spots and provide safety tips and instruction. You'll be able to explore the canyon with confidence, knowing that you're in good hands.

  Respect the environment:

When exploring Glen Canyon, it's important to respect the environment. Leave no trace and pack out all of your trash. Additionally, be mindful of wildlife and their habitats.

  Enjoy the scenery:

Glen Canyon is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world. Take your time to soak it all in and appreciate the beauty around you. Paddleboard along the calm waters, hike the trails, and watch the sun set behind the cliffs.

STORY BEHIND THE LESSONS:

As soon as Shelby saw the serene waters of Glen Canyon, she knew that it was the perfect spot for a paddleboarding and camping trip. We had been looking forward to this adventure for months and had planned everything meticulously. We were aware of the cold water temperature and strong winds that the canyon could create. Therefore, we rented high-quality wetsuits from Lake Powell Paddleboards and Paddle and based our launch date on the best weather conditions.

Before our trip, we reserved a backhaul service to get from Lees Ferry to Glen canyon. Our guide, a friendly and experienced boater, took us to some of the most breathtaking spots in the canyon and explained the history behind it.

After we paddled for a while, we found a secluded spot to take a break and soak in the breathtaking beauty of the canyon. That's when we decided to use our Nozou straps to connect our paddle boards together and float as a group. It was an incredible feeling to be surrounded by the towering cliffs and vibrant colors of the canyon while floating effortlessly on the calm water.

As we floated, we chatted and laughed, enjoying each other's company and the incredible scenery. The straps held our boards securely together, allowing us to relax and enjoy the beauty around us. We were grateful to have them as a reliable and versatile tool on our journey through Glen Canyon.

After paddle boarding, We set up camp under the Horseshoe Bend and prepared for a night under the stars. Shelby cooked a simple meal on our camping stove and enjoyed the peace and quiet of the desert. As the sun set, we watched the colors of the sky change, and the stars emerge from the darkness.

The next day, we woke up bright and early as the sun started to peak though. At 8:00am we started our trip along the canyon walls and explored the different coves and beaches. I was amazed by the beauty of the area and felt grateful for the opportunity to experience it firsthand. We took our time, enjoying the scenery and taking in the silence.

Setting out on our paddleboarding adventure in Glen Canyon, we were filled with excitement and anticipation for the calm waters and awe-inspiring views. Although we were aware of the impending weather forecasted to arrive at 2:00 pm, little did we know that the canyon had different plans in store for us.

At first, the wind was barely noticeable, and we glided effortlessly through the crystal-clear waters. But soon enough, the gusts picked up, and we found ourselves struggling to paddle against them.

Despite our best efforts, the wind pushed us upstream, and we made little progress towards our destination. We tried to take breaks and wait for the winds to die down, but they only seemed to get stronger.

As time passed, our frustration grew, and we started to worry about being stranded in the canyon. We tried to paddle downstream, but the wind was so strong that it was impossible to make any headway.

Finally, after hours of battling the winds, we saw a small cove that provided some shelter from the gusts. We quickly paddled towards it and huddled together, exhausted and relieved to have found some rest.

As we sat there, we realized that our plans for a leisurely paddleboarding trip had turned into a test of endurance and survival. We had underestimated the power of nature and the importance of being prepared for unexpected challenges.

After a few moments of rest, we gathered our strength and paddled onward, determined to make it to our camping spot before nightfall. The winds continued to test us, but eventually died down, and five hours after our intended arrival time, we finally reached our destination.

As we packed our gear and watched the sun set over the canyon, we reflected on the day's challenges and the lessons we had learned. We had gained a newfound respect for the power of nature and the importance of being prepared for anything that might come our way and learned a valuable lesson: to take our time and enjoy the beauty of the world around us and check the weather!