7 Best Ways to Enjoy Salt River Tubing in Arizona
DREAMING ABOUT GOING SALT RIVER TUBING?
Don’t worry, we are too! During our next trip to Phoenix, we are planning on tubing the Salt River so we’ve done all the homework for you (and me) in making this complete guide!
We will fill you in on the best ways to enjoy Salt River tubing in Arizona. There are organized tours that take care of planning the details and logistics for you, or you can float down the river on your own. If you are floating on your own, you will need two vehicles so you can coordinate drop-off and pickup once you are done floating.
Overview:
Salt River Tubing Season Dates: May – September
Address: 9200 N Bush Hwy, Mesa, AZ 85215
Cost: $21
Minimum Age for Tubing: 8 Years Old (Recommended)
Best Ways to Enjoy Salt River Tubing
1. Salt River Tubing
🕑 RIVER FLOAT LENGTH: Varies Based on Launch Point (2-5 Hours)
People travel far and wide to experience Salt River tubing in Arizona. The Salt River Tubing company is a one-stop shop for the adventure you are after.
All you have to do is get yourself to their parking lot location in Mesa and they will take it from there. A reservation with Salt River Tubing gets you inner tubes and shuttle bus service to your desired launch point and back to their facility at the end of your river float.
The launch point you decide on will determine the length of your river float. You’ll want to study their map ahead of time when deciding how long you want to be on the river.
Keep in mind, this is not a guided tour. This company merely facilitates your river experience. Once you’re on the water, it’s your adventure to be had.
Also, the recommended minimum age for this river float is 8 years old. Salt River Tubing will not accept the reservation or provide a tube or transportation for anyone in a group with a participant under the age of 8.
Salt River Tubing Includes:
✓ River Tube
✓ Round trip Transportation
2. Half-Day Lower Salt River Rafting Tour
▶️ BOOK Half-Day Lower Salt River Rafting Tour
⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 4 Hours
Half-Day Lower Salt River Rafting Tour is the perfect jumping off place for anyone who has never rafted before, but has always wanted to. It can be intimidating to jump into a new sporting experience, so take the guesswork out of it and leave the details to a professional guide.
If you’re a young family and you’re hoping to get your kids Salt River rafting, this is the tour we recommend. This tour does run into rapids, but they are very manageable, family-friendly class I rapids. They are so calm in fact, participants can be as young as 4 years old to enjoy this rafting tour.
Enjoy the notable landscape of the Sonoran Desert and watch out for wildlife as you float (and maybe even swim) down the Salt River. This tour provides a fun-loving, memorable day on the water.
Half-Day Lower Salt River Rafting Tour Includes:
✓ Bottled Water & Snacks
✓ Professional guide
✓ Raft, paddles, life jackets and dry bags
✓ Roundtrip Transportation
▶️ BOOK Half-Day Lower Salt River Rafting Tour
3. Arizona Rafting on the Salt River – Express Rafting Trip
▶️ BOOK Arizona Rafting on the Salt River – Express Rafting Trip
⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 4 Hours
If you’re prepared to crank up the adrenaline from the class I rapids on the lower Salt River to a series of solid class III rapids, then this Express Rafting Trip is for you.
Another half day trip, but this one is action packed as participants aid their guide in paddling over a dozen class III rapids. The rapids aren’t the only entertainment though, this float will also offer stunning views of the 2,000 foot deep Salt River Canyon.
Not for the faint of heart, participants must be at least 8 years old to join this rafting trip. Though the rapids are more advanced on this float, newbies have no need to be concerned. The rapids on this trip will be exciting, but still manageable, especially under the watchful eye of an expert guide.
Arizona Rafting on the Salt River – Express Rafting Trip Includes:
✓ Raft, helmets, wetsuits, boots, splash jackets and life jackets
✓ Highly trained and experienced guides
✓ Round Trip Transportation
▶️ BOOK Arizona Rafting on the Salt River – Express Rafting Trip
4. Arizona Rafting on the Salt River – Full Day Rafting Trip
▶️ BOOK Arizona Rafting on the Salt River – Full Day Rafting Trip
⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 6 Hours
Salt River Rafting in Arizona reaches a new height on this full-day river rafting trip. Guided by the same company, this tour follows the same framework of the half-day, express rafting trip, but this time you get the full experience.
This tour will take you through the promised dozen class III rapids, each arriving within 5-10 minutes from the last. But along with the thrilling adventure, you’ll also stop to set up lunch camp at some point along the river’s shore.
There you will enjoy a delectable steak lunch, surrounded by the beauty of Salt River, Arizona.
Arizona Rafting on the Salt River – Full Day Rafting Trip Includes:
✓ Raft, helmets, wetsuits, boots, splash jackets and life jackets
✓ Highly trained and experienced guides
✓ Lunch
✓ Round Trip Transportation
▶️ BOOK Arizona Rafting on the Salt River – Full Day Rafting Trip
5. Raft & Camp
⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 Days
The Raft & Camp experience is designed for those who just can’t get enough time on the river. Not only will you spend the day taking on rapids through Salt River Canyon, you will also get the chance to take in the stars on an overnight whitewater campout.
Get ready to enjoy the best of both worlds, surrounded by the stunning Arizona landscape and pampered by your river guide, who will set up camp and prepare delicious meals.
As if the river experience wasn’t enough, spending time at excellent scenic riverside campsites, under a sky full of stars would be a family memory to cherish forever.
Raft & Camp Includes:
✓ Lunch, dinner and breakfast
✓ Raft, wetsuits, life jackets, helmets
✓ Professional guide
6. Lower Salt River Kayaking Tour
▶️ BOOK Lower Salt River Kayaking Tour
⭐ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours
If a more peaceful and serene experience is a better fit for your family, consider Salt River kayaking. A guide will direct participants of this tour through the calm waters of the lower Salt River.
Without any rapids, this tour is truly focused on experiencing the beauty and grandeur of the colorful riverbanks and red cliffs from the quiet comfort of your kayak.
This kayaking experience is a great option for travelers of all ages or for those with water related limitations. Those looking for a bit more peace on the Salt River can breathe easy without the concern of impending rapids. This tour makes for a fun day on the water.
Lower Salt River Kayaking Tour Includes:
✓ Professional safety-certified river guide
✓ Bottled water & snacks
✓ Inflatable double kayak, paddles, life jacket, dry bags
✓ Round Trip transportation
▶️ BOOK Lower Salt River Kayaking Tour
7. Salt River Tubing On Your Own
Though the Salt River Tubing company is a popular route to take when looking to get onto the river, it isn’t the only avenue to get there. It’s fairly easy to bypass the fees and lines for the shuttle and go tubing on your own.
If you’re traveling on a budget, it makes a lot of sense to take the reins on this one. Depending on the size of your family and the basics that you may already have, you could possibly purchase the needed materials for less than the $21 per person fee (which only covers the rental tube and shuttle buses) with Salt River Tubing.
It could even be a fun family activity, letting everyone choose their own tubes and other floating essentials. Investing in essentials that you will be able to take with you, far beyond your Salt River adventure.
Popular Launch Points
When floating the Salt River on your own, you’re able to launch into the river at the same locations the river company uses.
- The first launch point is at Pebble Beach, near the parking areas.
- The second launch point is at Granite Reef, which is located at the bridge that crosses the river.
- The third launch point is at the Salt River Tubing facility.
The river journey from the first starting point to the second is estimated at 1.5 – 2 hours. If you choose to launch at the second point you will spend around 3 hours on the river before reaching point three.
If you want to run the entire stretch plan for about 5 hours of float time from point one to point three.
At some of the river access points there is a charge for parking so be prepared for that.
When is the best time for Salt River Tubing?
The Salt River tubing season typically opens at the end of April or early May and runs through September. The river is accessible from 9 am until 6:30 pm. Salt River tubing at night is dangerous and not advised.
Looking for the Wild Horses
Many wild horses live and wander around the areas visitors float through on the Salt River. The river is their main source of water, so chances are, you will spot a few along the journey.
They are beautiful and majestic creatures, but they are indeed wild animals. For your safety and the safety of others on the river, as well as for the horses, enjoy them from a distance. Show respect and do not interact with the horses.
Safety Tips for Tubing the Salt River
Stay Hydrated
Hours under the Arizona sun with little to no shade will take it out of you. Keep drinking lots of water and keep your kids comfortable with cold drinks or treats.
Plan For Sun Coverage
Be prepared to be under the rays of the sun for several hours. Though less is more when bringing stuff along on a river tubing trip, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are must-haves for everyone in your family.
Stay Aware
The Salt River is a popular spot and the river is typically very crowded. Stay aware of where your group is and do your best to keep everyone together, especially if you’re floating with kids.
Many river floaters recommend tying tubes together, though it is widely unadvised. And if you’re a newbie and are unfamiliar with the river, remember to pay attention to the changes in direction, water level and even small rapids.
Stay Safe
With such beautiful scenery and a fun-filled atmosphere it can be easy to forget about safety precautions when floating the Salt River. Plan ahead with your children so they can expect to wear lifejackets and know what sort of behavior is safe and what is not while in the river environment.
Fun is a lot easier to come by when all safety concerns have been addressed.
Less is More
It’s important to be prepared with essentials, but anything else is not worth losing. Leave your personal items and anything that is not absolutely necessary at home.
Things to Bring to the Salt River
Water shoes
Water shoes are essential when floating or rafting down the Salt River in Phoenix. The river’s floor is rocky and attempting to launch a tube or get out of a raft at exit points without water shoes could cause great injury to your feet.
We recommend investing in a durable pair, as something light and cheap likely won’t offer adequate protection.
👉 Click on Any Image Below to Shop Water Shoes 👈
Cooler
An important thing to remember about river floats is that you (and more likely your children) will get hungry and thirsty along the way. That means, you need a cooler to carry drinks and snacks in tow. Don’t pass on this one, it’s highly important to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water as you float under the blazing Arizona sun.
Invest in a sturdy, cooler and forgo styrofoam coolers, as they will beak down in the water. Some people even bring an extra tube as designated cooler tubes to float their coolers on.
Dry Bag
A dry bag is another important must-have on any river tubing adventure. This bag will help keep all of your important items (phones, car keys, even dry clothes for later) dry and safe from loss or water damage.
There is no Salt River Tubing lost and found, you’re responsible for anything you bring onto the river, so it’s best to keep everything locked away.
Carabiner Clips and Rope
Carabiner clips are a helpful tool to have on a river float, as they enable you to attach or detach specific items (like water bottles or dry bags) to and from your tube in an easy manner.
Rope is a versatile tool that might come in handy to pull someone back to the group or to assist as an anchor point when it’s time to exit the river.
Life Jackets
Life jackets are key to a safe experience when Salt River tubing in Mesa, AZ. Everyone is on the river to have a good time, but it’s important to take safety precautions to protect your family.
River floats are that much more fun when safety is put first.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen could not be more important when tubing in Arizona. You’ll be directly in the line of the sun while floating for hours down the river, so plan to apply sunscreen liberally and likely multiple times. The kids might protest, but they will thank you for it later!
Hotels Near the Salt River Tubing
Superior Suites Phoenix Mesa – Budget
If you’re traveling to go Salt River tubing in Mesa, AZ on a budget, Superior Suites Phoenix Mesa is a great place to stay near the river. The property is older and the amenities are very basic, nothing over the top or special.
Standard rooms are available with one or two queen size beds. Suites are available with king or queen size beds and also include a mini-fridge.
⭐Superior Suites Phoenix Reviews (7/10 Stars)
Friendly and accommodating staff. Clean, quiet area. Not the most updated room and the bed was hard but it was acceptable for a night. – Amber (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Superior Suites Phoenix
SureStay Plus Hotel by BW Mesa Superstition Springs – Mid-Range
SureStay Plus Hotel is another comfortable place to hang your hat. This is another no frills location, but the accommodations are bright, welcoming and clean.
King and Queen Standard Rooms feature mini-fridges and microwaves. Suites even include a separate living area for maximum relaxation. Free wifi is available in all rooms and free breakfast is provided each morning.
⭐SureStay Plus Hotel by BW Mesa Superstition Springs Reviews (8.2/10 Stars)
Everything was great ! Check in was easy, room was nice & clean. Internet & tv worked well. Beds were very comfortable ! Will definitely stay here again! – Elsa (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Surestay Plus Hotel
Home2 Suites by Hilton Mesa Longbow – Luxury
If you’re looking to relax to the max after your Salt River rafting in Arizona adventure, book your stay with Home2 Suites by Hilton Mesa Longbow. This cushy and beautiful hotel is known for its fantastic pool with attached BBQ and picnic areas.
This hotel’s Studio or Two Room Suites with an in-suite kitchen would be a dream come true for a family interested in visiting Salt River, AZ. It’s pet-friendly and offers a free hot breakfast every morning too!
⭐Home2 Suites by Hilton Mesa Longbow Reviews (9.6/10 Stars)
This is a lovely, clean & newer hotel with nice staff. Full breakfast served. Grounds are landscaped beautifully! On a golf course, so you can see golfers out & about, and I’m thinking you could get a tee time. – Rita (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Home2 Suites by Hilton
FAQ: Salt River Tubing
How long does it take to do Salt River tubing?
Tubing the Salt River can take anywhere from two to five hours. The duration of your float will depend on where you launch from, where you decide to stop (and for how long) as well as the speed of the flowing water on that given day.
Can you float the Salt River for free?
Yes, you can forgo floating with a tour and float the Salt River for free. The only catch is, you won’t have a ride back to your origin point once you reach the end of the float, unless you coordinate vehicles with a friend.
At some of the parking areas for getting in and out of the river there is a charge for parking.
How much does it cost to tube the Salt River?
Salt River Tubing pricing is $21. This price includes parking at the origin point, a tube to float the river on and a shuttle to the launch area and back.
Is the Salt River safe for tubing?
The rapids along the Salt River can be jarring, but are not extreme. As is the case in any water related activity, participants should be experienced and capable enough of getting themselves to safety should any incident occur.
Though it’s a common occurrence, tying tubes together while floating on the river is unsafe and not recommended. Taking basic safety precautions like wearing life jackets and following recommendations is a great way to make the family adventure of floating the Salt River that much more safe.
Conclusion: Salt River Tubing
The Salt River has gained national notoriety over the past few years, and with good reason. It’s one of the most fun outdoor things to do in Phoenix! However you plan to spend time on the water, you can be sure that adding Salt River tubing to your Arizona vacation itinerary will guarantee some amazing family fun.
There are also lots of fun indoor things to do in Phoenix if you’re looking for other ways to escape the heat in Phoenix.
