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Salt River Rafting: Quick Facts and Insights

Learn about one of the most unique trips we have to offer, the Salt River in Arizona! Rafting the Salt River is a desert treat. This beautiful canyon is home to the Apache Tribe making it a very sacred place. This region is located in the Tonto National Forest and the Fort Apache Reservation. It flows through the Salt River Canyon, northeast of Phoenix, Arizona, in the United States.

Amidst the rushing waters and rugged landscapes, the Upper Salt River also holds a wealth of natural wonders to discover. Saguaro cacti line the shoreline, while desert wildflowers add vibrant splashes of color to the landscape. Along the river’s banks, ancient ruins and archaeological sites speak to the region’s rich history, inviting visitors to delve into its cultural past. During the early spring high water season, adrenaline-seekers aged 12 and above can challenge themselves against class III-IV rapids, while the late spring low water season offers a more moderate class II-III experience suitable for adventurers aged 8 and above. Some notable class IV rapids in this canyon include: Quartzite Falls, Corkscrew, and The Maze. The Upper Salt River is a journey through history, with ancient ruins near Canyon Creek.

Top Things to Know about Rafting The Salt River:
Salt River Canyon Length: 52 miles
Salt River Rapid Class: High water (Early Spring) III-IV Low water (Late Spring) II-III
Best for ages: 8+ low water 12+ high water
Notable Scenery: Saguaro cacti, desert flowers, granite cliffs, Salt deposits.
Located: Above Roosevelt Reservoir in Arizona’s Fort Apache Reservation and Tonto National Forest
Notable Sites: Sycamore Canyon, Quartzite Falls, ancient ruins near Canyon Creek.

Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure or a serene journey through pristine wilderness, the Upper Salt River beckons with its beauty and allure. Join us as we embark on an unforgettable exploration of one of Arizona’s most spectacular waterways, where every twist and turn reveals a new chapter in nature’s grand story.

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