If you have a desire to explore the wild side of Las Vegas, no not the casinos, but the wilderness that lies about 25 miles east of the flashing neon strip, then canoeing the Colorado River is the ticket. Along the Colorado River you will find hot springs, thermal soaking pools, waterfalls and caves that glow emerald.

My husband and I started our trip early on a sizzling late spring Saturday. We outfitted ourselves through a local company that provided us with a canoe, equipment and a pick up at the end of our five -mile trip. The cost was $55 and well worth the price. We had purchased the necessary permits to travel through the Lake Mead National Recreation Area well in advance and with a cooler packed with food and beverage we were set for our day?s adventure.

The water through the canyon is rated Class I or less-moving flat water with a few rapids-perfect for a middle aged couple paddling alone. We have had experience with rapids up to Class III but never paddling on our own. We were looking forward to a calm day paddling down the Colorado River.

We were dropped off at the put in point on the Colorado, right beneath Hoover Dam. The 726-foot-high concrete wall of the dam is quite imposing looming behind us as we set our canoe in the water. It is a view that most visitors don?t see except in photos. It is quite an imposing structure.

With Richard steering we headed into the slow but steady current. It wasn?t long before we veered off of the main channel to enter an open cave where geothermal heated water from the ceilings and walls showered us as we glided through until we reached a series of dammed pools at different heights and temperatures. One warm jet fell from a high ledge, creating a pulsating water massage that felt as good as a Jacuzzi.

The rest of the afternoon past lazily as we zigzagged across the river stopping for a picnic lunch and some hiking. The Nevada sun is brutal, even in the springtime but the river hasn?t warmed enough to brave a refreshing swim. We drank plenty of liquids and occasionally attempted to enter the water to cool off.

We had spent around five lazy hours on the river before reaching our destination, the ranger station at Willow Beach. Our arms were a might sore from the paddling but the memories of the scenery and the occasional sighting of big horn sheep made it all worthwhile.

If you are ever-in Las Vegas and desire some relief from the city of illusion contact Down River Outfitters at 1631, Boulder City, NV 89005.