Our Salt River Rafting trips take place in the wonderfully unpredictable natural environment and there are almost limitless exploration options, Because of this our on river itineraries are always flexible and relaxed to accommodate water levels, weather, and our guest’s needs and interests. Most of our trips are 5-days as that allows us time to explore our favorite parts of the Salt River canyon and allows us to run trips at a wider range of water levels. However, there are 4 day options for charter groups.
Day 1:
Our trip starts in Phoenix Arizona. There you will be met by one of the guides and we will drive east for about 2.5 hours through the foothills and into the mountains to our “put-in” deep in the upper salt river canyon. On the way we will stop in Globe, AZ for last minute necessities, personal drinks, etc. At the put-in we will meet the rest of the crew, have lunch by the river, do an orientation talk, and pack our dry bags. After loading our gear and ourselves into the boats we push off and head down the Salt River and into one of the most unique desert canyons in the world. For 5 days we will float the Salt, first through scrub pinyon and juniper, and then into the spectacular sonoran desert. Stopping to explore and camp at side creeks and tackling the abundant whitewater of the rivers inner gorges.
Days 2-4:
Each morning after a hearty breakfast and plenty of time for a second cup of coffee we will break camp and head down river. Days will include time on the water, a lunch stop, time on the beaches, time for optional side hikes (the hiking is world-class), and stops at side creeks and washes. Each day also features abundant whitewater and views of the incredibly beautiful and varied river canyon with the stately giant saguaros looking on. The exact itinerary and length of each day will depend on water levels, weather, and the interests of the group. There is an incredible amount to see and a ton of options – it is a true desert playground.
Day 5:
Morning comes once again with coffee, tea, views of the desert covered in wildflowers, and the sound of birds in the canyon. Our last day is a more mellow whitewater day and is chance to experience the river for one last morning. We reach the end of our river trip around lunch, say goodbye to most of the guides and begin the 2 hour drive back to Phoenix and civilization. We will get to Phoenix between 3 and 5 in the afternoon.
Find out more about Life on the River >>