Phoenix
The lower Salt River is the closest real paddling to Phoenix, and these are the float trips I’d book. The water stays gentle enough for first-timers, and wild horses graze the banks; Arizona has protected the herd by law since 2016. The season generally runs late spring into early fall.
Fearless explorers embark on a captivating kayaking odyssey through the majestic Tonto National Forest, where the Salt River Foxtail Trip promises an unforgettable adventure.
Most Popular★ 5.0“Amazing time! Worth every penny! Staff were extremely friendly and it was well-organized. What a fun time!”
★★★★★★★★★★
2,395 reviewsFrom $57.27by Saguaro Lake Ranch, Inc.
Discover the exhilarating adventure of kayaking through stunning canyons and cliffside landscapes on Saguaro Lake. Unleash your inner explorer and paddle into a world of awe-inspiring natural beauty.
★ 5.0“Staff was very friendly, personable and helpful. The views of the lake are gorgeous! 10/10 experience”
★★★★★★★★★★
410 reviewsFrom $45by Saguaro Lake Ranch, Inc.
You'll be enchanted by the natural wonders of the Sonoran Desert during this self-guided kayaking trip to Foxtail, where towering cliffs, saguaro cacti, and diverse wildlife await. The 5-mile paddle promises an unforgettable adventure.
★ 4.8“Our trip was amazing! Absolutely beautiful a blast. Best memories made today with my husband. Definitely would recommend.”
★★★★★★★★★★
86 reviewsFrom $57by Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch
Joyful adventure awaits on Saguaro Lake, where a guided kayak or paddleboard tour immerses you in the serene natural beauty - but there's more to discover.
★ 5.0“Had a great time. Everyone at the ranch very friendly..We learned so much about the area. Our guide was awesome 😊”
★★★★★★★★★★
76 reviewsFrom $123.53by Saguaro Lake Ranch, Inc.
Embark on an exhilarating half-day adventure along Arizona's Lower Salt River. Brace yourself for thrilling rapids, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable memories. Book your spot now!
★ 4.5“We did it with our kids ages 11 and 13 and it was wonderful even with rainy conditions they provided us with ponchos and it was absolutely amazing”
★★★★★★★★★★
45 reviews2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)From $140.00by Cliff Creek Outfitters
Mysteries await beneath the serene surface of Saguaro Lake, promising an unforgettable adventure for those willing to dive deeper into the desert's secrets.
★ 4.6“everything”
★★★★★★★★★★
39 reviews2 hoursFrom $60
Harnessing the power of the Lower Salt River, this guided rafting adventure offers a thrilling journey through Arizona's stunning natural landscapes.
★ 5.0“Our rafting guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. We saw wild horses and the scenery was amazing! We had a great experience!!”
★★★★★★★★★★
34 reviews2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)From $134.76by Saguaro Lake Ranch, Inc.
Hop on a paddle board or kayak and explore the serene waters of Canyon Lake, where stunning canyons and local wildlife await your discovery.
★ 5.0“We enjoyed the canyons, looking at the fish, seeing wildlife, and hearing about how the canyon was formed.”
★★★★★★★★★★
30 reviews2 to 3 hours (approx.)From $119.00by YAK N SUP
Joyfully discover the breathtaking natural wonders of the Lower Salt River on a guided Kayaking Red Mountain Paddle, where wildlife sightings and serene landscapes await.
“The kayaking experience was awesome! Water was clean, tour operators were fun and we saw wild horses and cows. My in-laws are going to bring the rest of the family back.”
★★★★★★★★★★
22 reviewsFrom $75by Saguaro Lake Ranch, Inc.
Kayak through the enchanting waters of Saguaro Lake, where secrets lurk beneath the surface and a thrilling mystery awaits.
★ 5.0“Teri did an excellent job explaining everything at the beginning and engaging with all of us the entire time. We loved it!”
★★★★★★★★★★
20 reviews3 hoursFrom $128by Riverbound Sports Paddle Company
Catch breathtaking views and thrilling adventures on Saguaro Lake's canyon and cliffside—what hidden gems await you on this unforgettable kayaking journey?
★ 5.0“Absolutly loved this trip. SLR is extremely friendly and informative. The equipment was excellent and the river so beautiful.”
★★★★★★★★★★
12 reviewsFrom $45by Saguaro Lake Ranch, Inc.
Experience the thrill of kayaking! Rent our 1 Person Inflatable Kayak for a full-day adventure. Easy to transport, perfect for exploring nature's hidden gems. Book now!
★ 5.0“Well received by the manager at the store. She recommended a great beach to set sai to the Salt River. She also showed me the whole process as how to inflate the kayak, operate the the paddle and mount the seat properly. As a beginner,…”
★★★★★★★★★★
11 reviews1 to 8 hours (approx.)From $45.00by Riverbound Sports
Experience the Wild West in Arizona with a tour of OK Corral, Tombstone, and Saguaro Park in 2024. Explore the history and natural beauty of Scottsdale.
★ 5.0“Our guide Cody was great. Pointed out all the highlights all the way from Scottsdale to Tombstone. Great trip.”
★★★★★★★★★★
8 reviewsFrom $250.00by Wandering Heart Adventures
Are you ready for a thrilling adventure on the water? Discover the expert tips and tricks for transporting a 2-person inflatable kayak and embark on a day of exploration.
★ 5.0“Second time renting from them was as awesome as the first time. They truly deserve better than 5 stars for the kind, courteous, friendly, helpful and professional way they treat you. Even before I rented from them I stopped in to ask some questions and…”
★★★★★★★★★★
4 reviews1 to 8 hours (approx.)From $65.00by Riverbound Sports
Curious about the creatures lurking along the Lower Salt River?
★ 5.0“Robert was extremely helpful and gave us excellent tips and recommended places to go! He showed us how to transport the paddle boards and it couldn’t have been easier! 10/10 would use Lower Salt Rentals again!”
★★★★★★★★★★
2 reviews1 to 5 hours (approx.)From $45.00by Lower Salt Rentals
Phoenix is my launchpad for the Sonoran Desert, from sunrise balloon flights to jeep trails lined with century-old saguaros.