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4 hour rental - Kayak and Paddleboard near Zion
Pricing
1 Seat
2 Seats
for 1 person
Description
Kayak & Paddleboard Rental Near Zion National Park — Quail Creek Reservoir, Utah
Escape the red rock heat and get out on the water at Quail Creek Reservoir in Hurricane, Utah — just 40 minutes from Zion National Park's west entrance and 13 miles northeast of St. George. With a 2–4 hour self-guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard rental, you're free to explore at your own pace: paddle to cliff-jumping spots ranging from 5 to 25 feet (1.5 to 7.5 m), discover secluded limestone coves, pull up on seasonal white gravel beaches, or simply float and soak in the scenery. It's the perfect complement to a Zion trip — or a standalone afternoon adventure when the canyon trails are at their hottest.
All gear is staged right at the water's edge inside Quail Creek State Park — no hauling required. The team has outfitted paddlers of all levels since 2011 and will make sure you're on properly sized equipment before you launch. First-timers get a quick on-the-spot paddling orientation before heading out. Single and tandem kayaks, solo and tandem SUPs, party SUPs (up to 6 people), inflatable water carpets, and float tubes are all available. Lake water temps reach the 80s°F (26–27°C) in summer and a mild 60°F (15°C) in the shoulder season.
Duration
- Up to 4 hours on the water
- Arrive a few minutes early to get sized for gear and receive a quick paddling orientation before launch
Location / Where to Pick Up
472 North 5300 W, Hurricane, UT 84737
Gear is staged directly at the water's edge inside Quail Creek State Park — you won't need to haul anything from a separate shop location.
Getting There: Take Exit 16 (Hurricane) off I-15. Head east on Highway 9 toward Hurricane City for approximately 2 miles, then turn left at the second traffic signal. Drive approximately 1.5 miles to the park entrance on the right.
- About 40 minutes from Springdale / Zion National Park West Entrance
- About 13 miles northeast of St. George
- About 20 miles from downtown Hurricane
Parking: Parking is available inside Quail Creek State Park. A day-use park entry fee is required per vehicle (see Not Included section below).
Restrooms: Quail Creek State Park has restrooms with running water available inside the park.
Ages & Requirements
- Open to all ages — kids are welcome on the water
- Young children may ride with a parent in a tandem kayak or on a party SUP
- Guests must be comfortable on the water; basic swimming ability is strongly recommended
- A Type III Coast Guard-approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is included and must be worn on the water
- Weight limits: confirm with the shop at time of booking for specific craft limits
What's Included
- Kayak or stand-up paddleboard rental for up to 4 hours (single kayak, tandem kayak, SUP, tandem SUP, party SUP, inflatable water carpet, or float tube — depending on selection)
- Type III Coast Guard-approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for each paddler
- Paddle
- Quick orientation and basic instruction before launch
- Gear staged lakeside — no hauling required
Not Included
- Quail Creek State Park entry fee — Annual passes also available at the park entrance booth.
- Gratuity — never expected, but if you have a great experience, please consider gifting 10–25% to your team
- Food, snacks, or beverages (non-alcoholic drinks and shaved ice are available for purchase at the on-site shop)
- Damage/trip protection (can be added at checkout for an extra fee)
What to Bring / Wear
- Swimsuit / Quick-Drying Clothing & Towel
- Water Shoes or Sandals with Straps
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen — the lake is a shared natural environment; please choose a reef-safe, non-nano mineral sunscreen
- Sun Protection — hat and sunglasses are strongly recommended; desert sun is intense
- Reusable Water Bottle — hydration is critical in Utah's dry heat; bring more water than you think you need
- Snacks
- Dry Bag — to protect your phone, keys, and valuables while on the water
- Waterproof Camera — the company is not responsible for any damaged or lost items
- Please remove jewelry, watches, or anything you don't want to lose or damage on the water
- Required Paperwork — signed waiver if required at check-in
ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY DIG Paddlesports
FAQs
What types of watercraft are available to rent?
Single kayaks (1 seat), tandem kayaks (2 seats), stand-up paddleboards (1 person), tandem SUPs (2 person), party SUPs (up to 6 people), inflatable water carpets (for large groups), and float tubes are all available. All gear is staged right at the lakeside — no hauling required.
Can I rent for the full 4 hours, or can I return early?
Your rental window is up to 4 hours — you're welcome to return before the time is up. Pricing is set per rental period rather than per hour, so there is no partial refund for returning early.
Where can I paddle?
Are there specific spots to check out? The lake is yours to explore. Popular spots within paddle range include cliff-jumping ledges (5–25 ft / 1.5–7.5 m), limestone coves, and seasonal islands with white gravel beaches. There are also visible petroglyphs left by ancient cultures that you can paddle close to. Ask the team for a quick orientation to the lake's highlights before you head out.
Is cliff jumping allowed?
Yes — cliff jumping is a popular activity at Quail Creek. Jumping spots range from approximately 5 to 25 feet (1.5 to 7.5 m). Always scout your landing zone before jumping and make sure the water is clear. This is done at your own risk.
Can I leave my keys and belongings at the shop while I'm on the water?
Confirm with the shop at booking. A dry bag is highly recommended to bring valuables on the water with you.
What if I have never kayaked or paddleboarded before?
No experience needed. The team provides a quick orientation before you launch — covering paddling basics, how to get on and off your board or kayak, and what to do if you get tired. Most first-timers are comfortable and paddling independently within minutes.
How far is Quail Creek from Zion National Park?
The reservoir is approximately 40 minutes from the west entrance of Zion National Park in Springdale. It makes an excellent half-day add-on to a Zion trip — head to the park in the morning for a hike, then cool off at the lake in the afternoon.
What are some safety tips for paddling at Quail Creek Reservoir?
The lake is generally calm and well-suited for all levels. That said, afternoon winds can pick up and push paddlers across the lake if they aren't prepared — ask the team for tips on paddling into the wind before you head out. Always wear your PFD, stay hydrated, and apply sunscreen before launching. The desert sun is intense — dehydration and sunburn are the most common concerns on the water.
Are you dog friendly?
Yes! Dogs are welcome on the water. Mention this when you book so the team can help you plan accordingly.
Do you speak languages other than English?
Yes — se habla español. Spanish is spoken at the shop.
What wildlife might we see on the water?
Quail Creek Reservoir is home to largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, rainbow trout, bullhead catfish, and crawdad/crayfish. None of the fish pose any danger. Reviewers and guided tour guests have also reported birds, beavers, and turtles along the shoreline. Desert scenery, limestone coves, and visible petroglyphs from ancient cultures are highlights on the guided tours and within paddle distance on self-guided rentals as well.
What is the best time of year to paddle at Quail Creek?
The reservoir is open year-round. Summer (June–August) brings warm water temperatures in the 80s°F (26–27°C) — perfect for swimming and cliff jumping. The shoulder seasons of March–April and September–October offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter rentals are available by appointment when weather cooperates — call the shop to arrange.
Is storage available for my personal belongings?
Confirm with the shop at time of rental. A dry bag is strongly recommended to protect valuables while on the water.
Do you sell gear or refreshments on-site?
Yes — the on-site shop sells non-alcoholic beverages, shaved ice, dry bags, sunscreen, snacks (including elk, venison, buffalo, beef, and wild boar jerky), water bottles, and other accessories. Paddleboards and kayaks are also available for purchase, with demo-to-purchase pricing available.
Cancellation Policy
- 8 days or more before rental: 100% refundable
- 7 days or less before rental: 50% refundable
- 24 hrs or less - 0% refundable
Availability
Reviews
Location
Address
472 North 5300 W
Hurricane, UT, 84737
US
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