Famous for some of the most spectacular scenery and whitewater in the world, the Colorado River runs quiet and smooth near its end where it forms the California-Arizona boundary. From a put-in at Moabi Regional Park, California, the river enters Havasu National Wildlife Refuge and Topock Gorge, approximately 18 miles of serene and strikingly beautiful paddling.

At Devil's Elbow red-rock walls soar hundreds of feet higher than the blue-green water. Picture Rock stands covered with numerous Indian petroglyphs. Tell the kids to watch for desert bighorn sheep, often silently standing far above the canoes. You can camp at Moabi Park for a fee, and along the Arizona shoreline south of the gorge. No camping is allowed within Topock Gorge.

Practicalities

When: Numerous species of birds call this area home, and thousands of migratory birds may be seen from October to May.

Canoe rentals are available. No permit is required.

For more info Havasu National Wildlife Refuge, 1406 Bailey Avenue, Needles, CA 92363; (619) 326-3853.