While everyone else in Phoenix is hot and bothered, you could be lazily drifting along the Salt River, enjoying the scenery of the Tonto National Forest, splashing in water and not having a care in the world. If that sounds good to you, here’s how you can take part in this much loved activity near Mesa. It would be fun as a couple's getaway as well as a family outing!
Salt River Tubing is the authorized company that will take care of and provide just about everything for you. They have themed days, season passes, half and full day options, buses that will take you/pick you up from the start and finish of your run, and even tubes you can rent just for your cooler so refreshments are never out of reach. Children must be 4 feet or taller and you bring your own cooler, food and beverages. Their website and all their info is https://www.saltrivertubing.com/
You can also go on your own with your own stuff. For that option you will need the gear, plus Tonto National Forest requires a Daily Pass and a Watercraft Pass. Those can be purchased here. (You will also need two cars so you have a way to get back to where you started once you pull out down river.) To contact a Ranger and confirm details and regulations use this link.
One of the highlights for many, aside from the cooling waters, is the chance to see the wild horses and other animals and birds that live by the river. Hopefully you will get lucky!
To help make sure you have a great experience be sure to bring LOTS of sunscreen and water. Other suggestions include bringing sheets to cover the inner tubes with. Tubes are black so they can get hot in the direct sunlight. You might also like to bring paddles enabling you to steer a bit rather than simply having to go where the current pushes you.
