Salt River: Water Users Access Loop
A 5-mile out-and-back on the Salt River through Sonoran Desert canyon with wild horse herds and saguaro cacti.
At a Glance
Distance
5 miles
Estimated Time
2-3 hours
Difficulty
Beginner
Route Type
Out & Back
Water Body
Salt River
Activities
Best Seasons
Route Map
About This Route
The Lower Salt River northeast of Phoenix is Arizona's most popular paddling destination — an oasis of cold, clear water flowing through the Sonoran Desert. The Tonto National Forest backdrop features towering saguaro cacti, red rock cliffs, and wild horse herds.
Yes, wild horses — the Salt River Wild Horse herd frequently wades in the shallows and grazes on the riverbanks. It's one of the most unique wildlife encounters in American paddling. The water is dam-released and cool (65-70°F), providing welcome relief from desert heat.
This out-and-back from Water Users Recreation Site follows the river upstream into a scenic canyon, then drifts back downstream. The route is suitable for beginners and is one of the few paddles where you might see saguaro cacti from your boat.
Highlights
- •Wild horse herds wade in the river
- •Saguaro cactus desert scenery
- •Cool dam-released water in hot desert
- •No shuttle needed — out and back
Safety & Hazards
Extreme heat in summer (110°F+) — paddle October through April only. Tonto Pass ($8/day) required for parking. Bring abundant water and sun protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How difficult is Salt River: Water Users Access Loop?
- Salt River: Water Users Access Loop is rated beginner difficulty. Extreme heat in summer (110°F+) — paddle October through April only. Tonto Pass ($8/day) required for parking. Bring abundant water and sun protection.
- How long does Salt River: Water Users Access Loop take?
- Salt River: Water Users Access Loop covers 5 miles and typically takes 2-3 hours.
- When is the best time to paddle Salt River: Water Users Access Loop?
- The best seasons for Salt River: Water Users Access Loop are fall and winter and spring. Salt River: Water Users Access Loop is on Salt River.
- What activities are available on Salt River: Water Users Access Loop?
- Salt River: Water Users Access Loop supports Kayaking, SUP, Canoeing. Highlights: Wild horse herds wade in the river, Saguaro cactus desert scenery, Cool dam-released water in hot desert, No shuttle needed — out and back.
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