This kayak trip destination is excerpted from the “Killer Trips” feature in Adventure Kayak magazine. 

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah

Temperatures in the otherworldly Lake Powell basin can soar to 110°F in mid-summer. Formed by the Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River, this sprawling green-water reservoir extends from the main 185-mile waterway into 96 side canyons, where 500-foot-high walls of Navajo sandstone constrict to less than a boat-length. To escape the powerboats—and the scorching sun—put in at Halls Crossing and paddle 10 miles upstream to explore the narrow arms of Moqui, Crystal Spring, Forgotten and Smith Fork canyons, where intimate alcoves, archways, hanging gardens and cool shade await. Avoid traveling midday when the searing heat is at its worst—plan a shady siesta or lounge in the lake’s 80-degree waters. www.nps.gov/glca

This article is a sneak preview from the Early Summer 2013 issue of Adventure Kayak. Download our free iPad/iPhone/iPod Touch App or Android App or read it here.