Kayaking tours in Phoenix are your chance to escape the city for a few hours and discover nature at its finest. It’ll be just you, your kayak and the wild!

Trips on the Lower Salt River take you into the heart of Tonto National Forest – this is the realm of eagles and deer. For a more leisurely splash around, kayaking on Lake Saguaro is a fun option for families.

Continue reading to find out everything you need to know about kayaking, one of the most popular outdoor activities in Phoenix.

What are the most popular kayaking tours in Phoenix?

Unguided river kayaking trips

The Phoenix kayaking tours are those that are unguided, giving you free rein to venture into the wild like a true pioneer. Don’t worry though, you’ll be shown how to paddle before setting off, and the river is gentle enough for beginners.

After receiving your safety briefing at the starting point, it’s time to head into the unknown. Setting off from Saguaro Lake, you’ll be paddling the Lower Salt River through the Tonto National Forest. Keep your eyes peeled for the herds of wild horses that roam the riverbanks.

The route is 20 kilometers long and can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. After finishing, you’ll enjoy a shuttle transfer back to the original meeting place. There is usually a maximum of 12 participants on these trips.

Guided river kayaking tours

If you prefer to venture into the desert wilderness with an expert guide, then these Phoenix kayaking tours tick all the boxes. On arrival at the launch point, you’ll receive a short briefing, before settling into your kayak.

The guide will then lead you along the Lower Salt River, following the same route as the unguided trips. Wildlife watching and swimming are both on the cards, while the towering red cliffs provide the perfect backdrop. These excursions are suitable for all skill levels.

At the end of your paddle, you’ll be collected by minivan and driven back to the starting point.

Guided lake kayaking excursions

These guided lake sessions are perfect for families or those who don’t fancy tackling a river on their first kayaking adventure. You’ll receive instruction and be accompanied by an expert paddler during the tour, so you’ll always be in safe hands.

As you paddle around Lake Saguaro, you will be treated to views of mountain peaks while giant cacti line the shores. Wildlife watching in the Sonoran Desert doesn’t get better than this, with bighorn sheep and eagles often spotted.

These trips begin and end in the same place, with no need for additional transport shuttles.

Are there any combo trips available with kayaking tours in Phoenix?

Kayaking tours with stand up paddle boarding

On this combination adventure, you’ll head to Saguaro Lake for a paddle through the scenic desert oasis. After arriving at the Butcher Jones Recreation Site, you can choose to venture onto the water by kayak or stand up paddle board.

You’ll be accompanied by a certified guide who will point out wildlife along the way. You will learn about the area’s natural history as well as new paddling techniques to make the most of the experience. Swap watercraft with your companions halfway through the tour if you want to try something new.

What are the prices of kayaking tours in Phoenix?

The unguided kayaking tours in Phoenix cost US$60 per person for a 2-hour jaunt and US$90 for a 4.5-hour trip. You’ll be paddling the river in a group of up to 12 participants.

For a guided kayak excursion by river, expect to pay US$170 per paddler. This covers the services of a fully certified guide for an elevated experience.

The Lake Saguaro kayaking sessions cost US$140 per person and include a guide on a small group basis.

What does the price include?

Unguided kayaking trips in Phoenix include the following:

Kayaks and paddling equipment including a life jacket.
Safety briefing with a short kayaking skills session.
Return shuttle transfer from the finish point back to the starting point.

Guided kayaking tours offer a little more:

Certified guide to accompany paddlers on their adventure.
Kayaking gear and life jackets.
Water and snacks.
Dry bags for personal belongings.
National Forest entry fees.

Transfers from Phoenix are not usually provided on any of the kayaking tours.

Where is the starting point for kayaking tours in Phoenix?

Unguided kayak experiences launch from the Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch, right beside the Salt River. It takes 45 minutes to travel from Phoenix – transfers are not provided.

The guided kayak excursions in Phoenix begin at the Canal/Hawes Trailhead Park and Ride which is half an hour east of the city. You will need to make your own way to the starting point.

Meanwhile, the Lake Saguaro kayak sessions launch from the Butcher Jones Recreation Site on the lake shore. It takes 50 minutes to drive there from Phoenix.

How long do kayaking tours in Phoenix last?

Guided Phoenix kayaking trips tend to be about 3 hours long, including time for briefing and getting kitted up. If you’re renting a kayak, you can choose between a 2-hour experience or a 4.5-hour session. Beginners often opt for the shorter excursion.

You will need to arrive half an hour before your scheduled start time for waiver verification and a group orientation.

When is the best time to go kayaking in Phoenix?

Some Phoenix kayaking tours take place all year round but most only operate during summer. This is when the waters are at their warmest, which is especially important if you want to take a dip after your paddle.

Kayak river trips are usually scheduled for the morning, leaving you with the afternoon free to explore at leisure. Why not book a quad biking tour or hiking excursion to round off the day?

The Lake Saguaro kayaking sessions can be enjoyed during both mornings and afternoons.

Is any previous kayaking experience required?

No previous experience is required for kayaking tours in Phoenix, so don’t worry if it’s your first time. Some trips are unguided but full instruction will be provided. This includes a safety briefing, a basic paddling skills session and information about the geography of the river.

Kayaking is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or other serious health conditions. All participants should be able to swim.

Some operators do not use tandem kayaks, so if you prefer to paddle with a partner, check the tour details before booking. The water will be relatively calm, with no rapids to negotiate.

Can children join kayaking tours in Phoenix?

For safety reasons, the minimum age for most river kayaking tours in Phoenix is 12 years. Some excursions are unguided so children must be comfortable paddling without dedicated instruction throughout the journey.

Paddlers of any age are welcome on the Lake Saguaro kayaking trips. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

What happens in case of bad weather?

All Phoenix kayak excursions are weather dependent. If conditions are poor, your trip will be canceled, and you will be offered a full refund or an alternative date.

It’s a good idea to book your tour at the start of your visit to Phoenix. This way you’ll have time to reschedule if the weather intervenes.

Travel tips

Make sure you book your kayaking trip in Phoenix ahead of your stay – places fill up fast during the summer months.
A moderate level of fitness is required as this is an active sport.
Wear outdoor clothing suitable for being in the heat as well as getting wet. Take a change of clothes and a towel for after the trip.
Sunhats and sunglasses are a must for all paddlers, as well as sunscreen to avoid getting burned out on the water.

Kayaking in Phoenix