Paddle Board Salt River: An Unforgettable Adventure in Arizona
Arizona is often celebrated for its dramatic desert landscapes, but it also boasts incredible waterways perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the most scenic and exhilarating experiences you can have is paddle boarding on the Salt River.
Other great paddle boarding destinations in Arizona include Canyon Lake, known for its stunning natural beauty with grand rock formations and vibrant skies, and Saguaro Lake, which offers a unique combination of tranquility and adventure amidst stunning desert landscapes.
I started paddle boarding on the Salt River with almost no experience and now it’s become my favorite Arizona summer activity. Even my daughter has fallen in love with paddle boarding and now we go almost every weekend in the summer months.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect paddle-boarding adventure on the Salt River.
Overview of the Area
The Lower Salt River is a picturesque destination located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, just a 40-minute drive from the bustling Phoenix metropolitan area. This makes it an ideal getaway for nature lovers and adventurers looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Arizona.
The river offers a unique blend of landscapes, from rolling rapids to serene pools, all set against the backdrop of stunning desert vistas. As you paddle along, you’ll be surrounded by a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the iconic saguaro cacti, lush riverbanks, and the occasional sighting of wild horses. The Lower Salt River is truly a must-explore destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable paddle-boarding experience.
Getting Started: Planning Your Trip
When to Go: The best time to paddle board the Salt River is from late spring to early fall, typically from May to September. During this period, the weather is warm, and the river’s flow is ideal for paddle boarding. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to avoid the midday heat.
Equipment and Rentals: If you don’t have your own paddle board, don’t worry! Several local outfitters offer rentals and guided tours. Companies like No Snow and Salt River Rafting provide everything you need, including paddle boards, life jackets, and paddles. They also offer shuttle services to and from the river, making your trip hassle-free. Remember to always follow safety precautions when paddle boarding to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Permits and Fees: A Tonto National Forest day-use pass is required to access the river. These can be purchased online, at local vendors, or at the river’s entry points. It’s a small fee that helps maintain this beautiful area.
Bring Your Own Paddle Board: Paddle boards are affordable, especially if you plan to use them often. I own this paddle board from Amazon, and it’s lasted me several seasons, is great for beginners and easily navigates the river!
How to Arrange Driving and Parking
This is probably the most asked question when arranging a paddle down the Salt River. Because you start at one place and end at the other, you must arrange transportation accordingly.
NOTE: There is no shuttle for paddleboarders. There is a shuttle for salt river tubers, but it is only through the company and for tubers only.
The best option is to go with a buddy and bring two cars. Park one car at the place you plan on ending your paddle, and then take your car and paddleboards to the places you are going to start. When you get to the end, the second person drives you back to your car.
There are tons of paddle boarders who have shuttle buddies so you can always take the risk and see if a kind stranger will drive you back to your starting point. But it’s definitely a risk! There is no public transportation or Uber in the area.
Rentals and Shuttles
If you don’t have your own paddle board or inflatable kayak, renting equipment is a fantastic way to experience the Lower Salt River without the hassle of transporting your own gear. Local paddle shops offer a variety of rental options, including inflatable kayaks and paddle boards, which are perfect for those who don’t have a roof rack or prefer not to load equipment on their car.
These shops provide foam blocks and straps to secure the equipment on your vehicle, and trucks can easily load the gear. Hand pumps and electric car air pumps are available for free with rental equipment upon request, making it easy to inflate your paddle board or kayak on-site. However, it’s important to note that local paddle shops do not offer shuttle services.
The easiest way to float the river is by staging two vehicles and shuttling yourself, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable adventure on the water.
On the Water: Navigating the Salt River
Safety First: Before you hit the water on your stand up paddleboard, it’s crucial to wear a life jacket and be aware of your surroundings. The river can have strong currents, especially after rainstorms, so it’s important to assess the conditions and ensure you’re comfortable with your paddling skills.
With that being said, dont be intimidated! I brought my teen daughter on the river and she mastered it with very little paddle-boarding experience.
Popular Launch Points: There are several access points along the Lower Salt River, but some of the most popular for paddle boarding include:
- Water Users Recreation Site: Ideal for beginners, this spot offers a gentle current and stunning views. This spot it also the first spot after the dam and will give you the longest time on the river.
- Pebble Beach Recreation Site: A great mid-point entry, perfect for a leisurely paddle with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife. Also known as the “bridge”.
- Sheeps Crossing: Right after the bridge, its a little lesser known and can often have open parking when the other lots are full.
Ending Point: you can choose where you want to end, just remember where you have your car parked!
- Phon D Sutton Recreation Area: Known for its beautiful scenery, this is the most popular ending spot for paddle boarders as it has a big parking lot and easy access in and out of the river.
- Granite Reef: This is located after Phon D and is the last possible place to exit the river.
The Route: A popular paddle boarding route starts at the Water Users Recreation Site and ends at the Phon D Sutton Recreation Area, covering approximately 7 miles. This stretch of the river is known for its calm waters and picturesque surroundings, making it perfect for a relaxing paddle.
Exploring the Lower Salt River
The Lower Salt River is a paradise for paddle boarders, offering a range of experiences suitable for all skill levels. The river flows year-round, but the best time to visit is during late spring and early fall when the water levels are ideal for paddling.
One of the best spots to launch your paddle board is the Granite Reef Recreation Area. From there, you can embark on a scenic paddle that takes you to the Water Users’ Recreation Area off SR 87 Beeline Hwy, a journey that typically takes around 4-5 hours.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning natural beauty, including impressive rock formations, lush vegetation, and easy-flowing rapids. Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as wild horses, bald eagles, and hawks, which add to the enchanting experience of exploring the Lower Salt River.
Encountering Wild Horses
One of the most magical aspects of paddle boarding on the Lower Salt River is the chance to encounter wild horses. These majestic creatures roam freely along the riverbanks, often approaching paddle boarders with a curious gaze.
While it’s a thrilling experience to see these wild horses up close, it’s crucial to remember to keep a safe distance and respect their natural habitat. The males can sometimes get into scuffles, which can be intimidating, so always be aware of your surroundings and maintain a respectful distance.
The presence of wild horses adds a unique and unforgettable element to your paddle-boarding adventure, making the Lower Salt River a truly special place to explore.
Guided Tours
For those new to paddle boarding or looking to enhance their experience with expert guidance, guided tours are an excellent option. Local paddle shops offer guided tours that cater to different experience levels, from beginners to advanced paddle boarders.
These tours provide all the necessary safety equipment and are led by trained guides who can point out areas of interest, share fascinating insights about the local flora and fauna, and offer helpful paddling tips. Joining a guided tour can add an extra layer of depth and enjoyment to your paddle-boarding adventure, ensuring you make the most of your time on the Lower Salt River.
The Experience: What to Expect
Stunning Scenery: As you paddle down the Salt River, you’ll be surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Towering saguaro cacti, red rock cliffs, and lush riverbanks create a dramatic backdrop. The contrast between the arid desert landscape and the flowing river is truly breathtaking.
Wildlife Encounters: One of the highlights of paddle boarding the Salt River is the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for wild horses, which are often spotted along the riverbanks, as well as bald eagles, blue herons, and other bird species. The river is also home to beavers, otters, and an array of fish. We’ve even seen wild cows in the area too.
Relaxation and Fun: Paddleboarding on the Salt River is not just about physical activity; it’s also a chance to unwind and connect with nature. Find a quiet spot along the river to take a break, have a picnic, or simply soak in the peaceful surroundings.
Stop at the popular “Mud Cliffs” where there is a beach access to pull over and have a picnic, and you can swim across the river to climb some rocks and do a little cliff jumping.
Tips for a Great Paddle Boarding Experience
Respect Nature: Leave no trace. Pack out all your trash and be mindful of the natural environment and wildlife.
Stay Hydrated: The Arizona sun can be intense, so bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up.
Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Lightweight, long-sleeve shirts can also help.
Pack Light: Bring only the essentials in a waterproof bag. Consider a dry bag to keep your belongings safe and dry.
What to Bring with You
Personal Flotation Device (PFD): It is the law in Arizona that you need to have a PFD or lifevest on your paddle board at all times. Kids under the age of 12 need to be wearing one.
Tonto Pass: As mentioned before, you will need a Tonto Pass. This is a day pass to use the parking lot. It’s per car only, not her person. Purchase one beforehand (most gas stations and Fry’s food stores carry them) and place it in the window of your car.
Cooler: Pack some snacks or a full lunch… paddle boarding the river can take anywhere from 3-5 hours or even longer if you stop at one of the many beaches along the way. I love this paddleboard cooler! It keeps everything super cold and attaches right to your paddle board so you never have to worry about it falling off (even if you do!).
Dry Bag: I also bring a dry bag when I go pabble boarding. Even the best of us fall off or flip our boards once in a while. It’s good to have a safe and dry place to keep your phone and keys.
Water Shoes: Don’t forget to bring a good pair of water shoes. Most entrances and exits to the river are very rocky and trying to navigate those in bare feet will be tough!
Paddleboarding on the Salt River is an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of water sports with the tranquility of nature. Whether you’re a seasoned paddle boarder or a beginner looking for a new experience, the Salt River offers something for everyone.
With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and serene waters, it’s no wonder this destination is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. So grab your paddle board and get ready for an amazing journey down Arizona’s beautiful Salt River!
Do you have any questions about Paddle Boarding the Salt River? Drop them in the comments below and I’ll do my best to answer them!
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