Tour Overview
Paddle the Lower Salt River at sunset on a guided stand-up paddleboard adventure. Experience the excitement of moving water on a SUP as the afternoon heat fades, the light softens, and the desert sky reflects across the water.
Duration: 1.5-2 hours on the water.
Tour Highlights
- Sunset Golden Hour: Paddle the Salt River as the desert light softens and the sky reflects across the water.
- Moving-Water SUP: Navigate the gentle but consistent current of the Salt River on a high-performance board.
- Wildlife Viewing: Evening hours often bring wild horses, bald eagles, and other birds to the riverbanks.
- Desert Playground: Explore the unique Sonoran Desert and water environment while learning proper SUP technique.
- Cooler Evening Conditions: Escape the midday heat with cooler air, calm water, and glowing mountain silhouettes.
Tour Itinerary
We meet at the Canal/Hawes Park & Ride and take our shuttle to the Lower Salt River launch site. Your guide provides a thorough on-shore safety briefing focused on moving-water techniques and gear distribution before we launch. Once on the water, we paddle downstream as the afternoon heat fades into golden hour and early evening.
The middle of the tour follows the natural curves of the river through scenic desert corridors where wild horses and bald eagles are frequently active in the evening. We may stop at a scenic beach for a quick snack and water break before concluding downriver, where our shuttle waits to return you comfortably to your vehicle.
Pricing
$156 per person.
Hotel pickup available for $295 per activity.
Private tours available for an additional $200.
Contact us for groups over 12.
Requirements
- Skill Level: Experienced paddlers only; must be comfortable on moving water.
- Minimum Age: 12 years old.
- Minimum Guest Weight: 90 lbs.
- Walking: Minimal; short distances between shuttle and river launch.
- Special Requirements: Must be able to stand and paddle for the duration of the tour.
What's Included
- Guides: Professional safety-certified guide(s).
- Equipment: SUPs, paddles, PFDs, and dry storage.
- Provisions: Bottled water and light snacks.
- Permits: National Forest entry fees.
- Transport: Roundtrip shuttle from the meeting point to the river.
What to Bring
- Water shoes or sport sandals
- Comfortable athletic clothing
- Change of clothing
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Medications & camera
What's Not Included
- Guide gratuities.
Season & Departure Times
January-February: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
March-May 15: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
May 16-August: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
September 1-15: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
September 16-December: 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Important Notes
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED: All river tours must be booked in advance to secure equipment and transport. Groups may be combined to meet the minimum.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What experience do I need for this tour?
This tour is for experienced paddlers only — you must be comfortable on moving water and able to stand and paddle for the duration of the tour. Guests must be at least 12 years old and weigh at least 90 lbs.
How long is the tour?
Plan for approximately 1.5–2 hours on the water. The tour meets at the Canal/Hawes Park & Ride, where a shuttle takes you to the Lower Salt River launch and returns you to your vehicle afterward.
What time does the sunset tour depart?
Departure windows vary by season, from 3:00 PM–6:00 PM in January–February up to 5:00 PM–8:00 PM in peak summer. Your exact meeting time is confirmed when you book.
Will we see wildlife?
Evening hours often bring wild horses and bald eagles to the riverbanks, but sightings are not guaranteed — these animals are in their natural habitat.
What's included?
Professional safety-certified guides, SUP board, paddle, PFD and dry storage, bottled water and light snacks, National Forest entry fees, and roundtrip shuttle transport from the meeting point.
What is the cancellation policy?
This tour has a 72-hour cancellation policy. Please read your confirmation email for details.
Have more questions? View our Salt River Sunset SUP FAQ →
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