
Tour Overview
Experience Arizona's breathtaking Salt River on a premier, expert-led stand-up paddleboarding tour. Navigate calm, moving waters while looking for majestic wild horses and bald eagles in their natural habitat for an unforgettable adventure.
Duration: 2-2.5 hours total, with approximately 1.5-2 hours on the water.
Tour Highlights
- Moving-Water SUP: Navigate the gentle but consistent current of the Salt River on a high-performance board.
- Wild Horse Scouting: Keep an eye on the riverbanks for the resident wild horse herds often seen cooling off in the water.
- Professional Guiding: Benefit from a guide who understands the river's flow and can point out the best lines through the water.
- High-Performance Gear: We provide quality stand-up paddle boards and paddles suited for river conditions.
Tour Itinerary
The tour begins at the Canal/Hawes Park & Ride, where you will meet your guide and receive a safety briefing focused on moving-water techniques. After ensuring all high-performance SUP equipment is fitted and ready, we head to the water's edge to launch. The initial stretch allows you to find your balance and get a feel for the river's pace.
As we move downstream, the itinerary follows the natural curves of the Salt River through the desert landscape. We spend the next few hours paddling through scenic corridors where wild horses and bald eagles are frequently active. The tour concludes downriver, where we exit the water and provide snacks and water before wrapping up the session.
Pricing
$156/person (4-person minimum).
**Private tours available for a one-time fee of $200
**Hotel pickup may be available for $295 for up to 10 guests
Requirements
- Skill Level: Experienced paddlers only; must be comfortable on moving water.
- Minimum Age: Suitable for guests 15+
- Minimum Weight: 90 lbs.
- Walking: There is minimal walking to and from the river.
- Special Requirements: Must be able to stand and paddle for the duration of the tour.
What to Bring
- Water shoes or sport sandals
- Comfortable athletic clothing
- Change of clothing
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Medications & camera
What's Included
- Guide: Skilled professional guide(s).
- Equipment: High-performance SUP equipment, paddles, PFDs, and dry storage.
- Snacks & Water: Bottled water & healthy snacks provided
- Safety: Your guides will conduct a safety briefing prior to launch.
- Transport: Roundtrip shuttle from the meeting point to the river.
Season & Departure Times
From May through September 14, we operate a 7:30 AM departure only to beat the afternoon desert heat and ensure the best wildlife viewing conditions. From September 15 through April, departures are at 10:00 AM.
Important Notes
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED: Please note that wildlife sightings such as horses and bald eagles are not guaranteed. Sunscreen and hats are highly recommended for all departures. Shoes that cannot fall off are required; hiking sandals with a backstrap are permitted.
Every attempt will be made to adhere to the tour itinerary. However, safety issues, weather, or other extenuating circumstances beyond our control may result in unexpected changes.
Cancellation Policy
This tour has a 72-hour cancellation policy. Please read your confirmation email for details.
Have more questions? Visit our Salt River SUP FAQ page.



