How do I get there ?

From Phoenix: Take Hwy 60 East to Globe, AZ, travel north approximately 38 miles to the Salt River Canyon. After crossing the bridge the road curves to the left. Follow the dirt road to the left before the trading post.
From Flagstaff: Take i-40 East to Holbrook, go South on Hwy 77 to Show Low. Continue on Hwy 77/60 South to Salt River Canyon. Just before the bridge and just past the trading post (on the left), turn right onto a dirt road, watch for the Canyon RIO signs.

The meeting area is on the right side of the road. Please park close to our marked meeting area.

How long does it take to get there ?

• Phoenix - 2.5 - 3 hours
  (approx 130 miles)
• Apache Junction - 1.75 hours
  (approx 90 miles)
• Tucson - 2.5 - 3 hours
• Flagstaff - 4 hours
• Show Low - 1 hour
  (approx 43 miles)

How many river miles will we cover ?

Single day trips cover about 9 miles and last 6 hours from departure until you are returned to your vehicle.

When is the best time to go rafting on the Salt River ?

Excellent rafting is usually available from the beginning of March to mid-May. For thrill seekers looking for high water excitement we suggest booking your trip in late March or early April when the snow melt is at its peak. Heat waves, however, can come at any time in Southern Arizona, so please watch the water flows. You may click here for the USGS link.

Weekends are the most popular time to go rafting on the Salt. If you can schedule your trip during the midweek you will have the advantage of enjoying greater solitude on the river at a lower cost.

How are rivers classified ?

The difficulty of a river is classified on a scale from I to VI with I being very easy and VI unrunnable. We have classified the rivers based on normal moderate water flows, but during times of high water, river difficulty levels can be increased. We recommend a Class III river for beginning rafters and a Class IV river for experienced rafters looking for more action.
International Scale of Whitewater I - VI:

• Class I - Moving Water
• Class II - Splashes
• Class III - Wet and Fun
• Class IV - Big Drops
• Class V - Violent Rapids
• Class VI - Unrunnable

What type of whitewater raft do I ride in ?

As on most Class III and IV rivers, self-bailing paddle rafts are used on the Salt River for maximum fun and excitement. Each of the passengers has a paddle to help power and maneuver the raft while the guide steers and directs the crew. Paddle rafts generally hold 3-6 passengers; Some of our rafts hold families of up to 8 people. If you prefer to ride in an oar boar with minimal paddling, we can probably arrange one on request.

Do I have to paddle ?

There are different types of raft boats used for different situations. Most Salt River trips take paddle boats, which DO require participants to paddle. No experience is necessary; your guide will teach you how to paddle in your pre-trip instructional and safety orientation. Our framed boats allow the guide to use a pair of oars to control and move the raft. Often, customers paddle along with the guide according to his or her commands, but participants may opt to simply sit back and enjoy the scenery. If you prefer an Oar Raft, simply let us know when you make your reservation and we will do our best to accommodate your preference.

Can I request a particular guide ?

Our guides are professionals in their field, and requests for a specific guide are not uncommon. If you have had a guide you especially liked and would like to have them guide your next trip, we will do our best to match their schedule to yours. Simply request your guide when you make your reservation.