Do you need a Tonto Pass to float the Salt River?
Do you need a Tonto Pass to float the Salt River? Because the Lower Salt River is located in the Tonto National Forest, you will need to purchase a recreational day pass to explore the area. Passes, which cost $8, can be purchased at multiple stores and gas stations throughout Greater Phoenix, as well as directly on site.
Can you float the Salt River on your own?
Yes, you can bring your own tube to float the Salt River. You will just need to have a vehicle at both the top and bottom launch sites. Is Salt River Tubing OK for kids?
Can you float the Salt River at night?
One of my favorite annual trips to lead is a moonlight paddle down the Lower Salt River east of Phoenix. The Salt River is a great little trip either early in the morning, or long after the tubers have gone home—it's serene, has some nice scenery, is convenient to the metro Phoenix area, and offers easy logistics.
How long does it take to go down the Salt River tubing?
It takes about 2 hours to float the Salt River from the launch point top of the river down to the bridge. It takes about 3 hours to float from the bridge down to the bottom exit point. If you want to float the Salt River from the top launch point down to the last exit, plan for about 5 hours.
How much is it to float down 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.
Can you take beer to Salt River tubing?
Also bring some rope to tie the chest to the tube. Also, bring some kind of lunch. Sandwiches and snacks work the best. If you bring beer or soda (you MUST bring one or the other or water!) be sure to bring CANS ONLY glass is not allowed on the river.
Can I swim in the Salt River?
Lower Salt River: A surprisingly short drive from downtown Phoenix reaches the Salt River, where runoff from the distant mountains waters the desert. Here you can swim, float, and paddle among huge cacti, towering cliffs, and a herd of wild horses.
What is the best time of day to go Salt River tubing?
The morning is the best time to go Salt River Tubing. The last tube rental is at 2pm so at the very least, you need to go before then. Our group arrived at 10:15 am and waited in a short line to rent our tubes. I do not recommend going much later than that because the parking lot and rental area will get very crowded.
What class rapids are on the Salt River?
Salt River Rafting rapids are rated class III and IV. The Salt River drops an average of 25 feet per mile for over 50 miles through rocky, secluded canyons.
How much is a ticket for not having a Tonto Pass?
If you're thinking of exploring any of the nearly 3 million acres of the Tonto National Forest in Arizona, it may pay to get a Tonto Pass. While a Tonto Pass is not required throughout the entire Tonto National Forest, the fine is $100 if you don't have a valid pass in the required areas.
How safe is Salt River tubing?
Fun - Wet - and Mildly Dangerous. On a hot summer day - nothing beats drifting down the salt - BUT there are safety concerns. Drownings are all too common here - dure mainly to the exposed root structure along the shore. People often lash the innertubes together, and can't manuver out of the dangerous areas.