Didn't realize how lucky I was to have the area to myself for 30 minutes till I got home. I was there at 10am, and didn't see anyone until around 10:30. They found me climbing the scaffolding above the cave =).
Thank you! It's the Thule Hullavator Pro. www.thule.com/en-us/winter-and-water-sports-carriers/kayak-roof-racks/thule-hullavator-pro-_-1685448 I bought it at REI with one of their great 20% off coupons. I think you might have to be a co-op member there to get that coupon.
How long does it take to get to the cave? Will this be a good safe place to take my 10 and 12 year old kids ? We are not very experienced, but have kayaked a few times.
Its about a 4-mile round trip paddle. The cave itself is very small with room for only 1 or 2 kayaks to back into. (Pictures make it seem much larger). And, you can't get out of your kayak here. However, there are a couple nice but small beach areas between Willow Beach and Emerald Cave that you can get out and picnic or swim. Your kids should like that. It's a fairly safe kayaking area with motors prohibited Sun-Mon upstream from Willlow Beach (makes it nice to not have to dodge boats). Stick to the shore as much as possible so you can get to land quickly if you need to. There's a great map on this page (pdf) - click Black Canyon Water Trail Description and Map. www.nps.gov/lake/planyourvisit/black-canyon-water-trail.htm
I believe you do need to have your AIS (aquatic invasive species) decal on your kayak. Decals for non-motorized craft are $5.00 in Nevada and there aren't any requirements to obtain them. If you have the Lake Mead year-round pass you do not need to pay the entrance fee.
