These jeweled bodies of water sparkle in contrast to the parched desert that surrounds them. Tanned and muscled water-skiers churn blue waves into white wakes. Bright sails billow as sailors catch shifting breezes and pilot the plentiful waters. At other times, both lakes appear as empty as the desert. For the best sightseeing, boating is often the only way to go.
Boaters find that they can see and reach many scenic areas that are inaccessible by car.
Boats can easily make their way up the narrow, steep-walled gorge of Iceberg Canyon in Lake Mead or up the equally spectacular Black Canyon in Lake Mohave, which retains much of the character of the historic Colorado. Many secluded coves with their own sandy beaches can be reached only by boat. Smaller, less developed areas such as Bonelli Landing, South Cove and Pearce Ferry are easily accessible. These areas are also generally less-crowded than the major recreational centers. On the even less developed Lake Mohave, Willow Beach, Cottonwood Cove, and Katherine are the major recreation access points.