Rafting
3 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
$179
per adult
Salt River Rafting
Salt River Rafting
5
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
About
Raft this stunning 2000′ deep canyon March - May. Sun, Splashes, Scenery and Saguaros = Whitewater Rafting Arizona’s Salt River! The only Sonoran Desert whitewater raft trip in the world is appropriate for adventurous first timers, families or the experienced rafter. One of the top "off the beaten path" things to do in the Phoenix & Tucson area. Partial - Full Day - Overnight - Multi-day Guided Whitewater River Trips!
Tours and Tickets by Salt River Rafting
On the Water
1–2 days
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
$341
per adult
Multi-day Tours
3 days
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
$983
per adult
Travelers talk about
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
170 reviews
Excellent
166
Very good
2
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
2
Bigmamaspud
Grand Rapids, MI6 contributions
Mar 2020
We took a half-day trip on the Salt River with Brynden, Finn, and Zach. Brynden was a skilled river guide, knowledgeable about the river, and familiar with the history of the area, land and local lore. The company is professional and experienced and provided us with a great trip! We drove from central Phoenix and it was well worth the gorgeous drive and beautiful river canyon views. Great experience we would do again.
Written March 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for mentioning the gorgeous drive to the canyon from Phoenix, it is one of Arizona's great highway trips featured in a lot of travel magazines. And then you get to go rafting in the spectacular Salt River Canyon! It is hard to believe you have gone from one of the country's biggest and most vital cities to a remote canyon and back in a couple of hours. And to spend that time with guides like Brendan who are passionate and knowledgeable about the canyon is what makes the day really memorable. Thank you for the review!
Written March 8, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sharon G
Boise, ID22 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
We hired Salt River Rafting to do a shuttle for us for a private, self-guided permit we obtained through the lottery process. They were organized, professional, and got our vehicle to the designated take-out on-time. Friendly staff, excellent service!
Written April 9, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for trusting your vehicle with us and the guides appreciate the extra work, cheers!
Written April 12, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Michele R
Silvis, IL162 contributions
Sep 2014 • Couples
What a fun and relaxing way to spend 4 hours!! The scenery was gorgeous - complete with multiple wild horses on the bank of the river! The random marshmallow launches at rafters was a blast! The staff from the check-in personnel to the bus drivers were super friendly and offered lots of helpful 'survival" tips. Do not forget the sunscreen!!!
Written September 22, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We occasionally get a review of someones tubing experience on the Lower Salt River which actually sounds like a fun and relaxing way to spend 4 hours. For those looking for a fun and exciting way to spend time on a river join us on the Upper Salt River in the pristine Salt River Canyon for a trip ranging from 1 to 5 days, now that will be a memory of a lifetime!
Written March 8, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
bradcromie
Scottsdale, AZ1 contribution
They are a bunch of morons. Most of them have nothing and if you camp by them they try to take advantage of your hospitality. We had the guides and one of the owners trying to drink everything we had as long as it had alcohol in it. We had 2 different times I had to kick them out of our camp because of the way they took advantage by just opening up coolers and taking whatever they wanted. We had one phisical altercation after that the owner of this rafting company called one of us an [--] because one of his guides kick dirt on one of our lady campers. If anyone saw how these guides acted after they took them down that river I believe that no one would use this company to guide them anywhere.
Written June 1, 2010
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
As one of the 3 owners of Salt River Rafting llc who was present the evening these events took place I must protest the accuracy of this review. I am writing this after emailing the reviewer above about his inaccuracies and after email and phone conversations with other members of the reviewers group who acknowledge that their friends review is not accurate nor reflects their experience.
First, there was a large group of guides from the two remaining outfitters celebrating their final weekend of work after 100 straight days of living and camping in the Salt River Canyon 45 miles from the nearest town. Adult beverages were being consumed and we actually advised this group to camp a little farther away rather than right next to this party. They said they liked parties and were there to do the same since it was Memorial Day Weekend. Most of the evening the two groups got along quite well. Unfortunately my business partner did over indulged and acted rudely while visiting their camp. We aren't saints , we're raft guides, and the following day he apologized to the group, gave them free photos and offered a free trip the following season. They said they would be back in 2011.
Second, the incident of dirt kicking had absolutely nothing to do with Salt River Rafting or any of our guides. The individual who kicked the dirt was ironically the manager of our competitors company. I can understand the confusion on the reviewers part not knowing who is who in a public campground at midnight. Problem is, as a witness of this event, I can honestly say we had nothing to do with it whatsoever. If it had been one of our guides, they would have lost their job. Further more, this incident took place at the guides party which the reviewer was not forced to join.
Finally, Salt River Rafting does take responsibility for its actions and gladly does whatever it can to make things right. We consider negative reviews or emails as an opportunity to improve our service and do whatever it takes to be the best company on the river. This is a small company run by 3 guys who have been raft guides most of their adult lives. It is very personal and not taken lightly. Unfortunately this reviewer has attributed a number of incidents to our company out of simple and I hope not malicious ignorance and has not had the decency to respond to us over the course of the summer. Also, we take offense to the term "morons." We acknowledge that we are "river rats" "migrant wave farmers" or "overly educated but under employed," but morons dear sir, we are not!
Written November 8, 2010
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Vinita6135
Lima, Peru7 contributions
Apr 2013 • Couples
This was a great trip (we did the one day trip) and I highly recommend it for anyone visiting or living in AZ. The company was very organized and the raft guides were very nice and laid back. More importantly, they knew their stuff and how to 1.have fun 2. keep clients safe. The area is absolutely beautiful and on an April day the weather was perfect. Our raft guide Frenchie was personable and professional. We also worked with a couple other guides who all took interest in us as well. They seem to have a really cohesive team that allows them to succeed at making customers happy. I would recommend this trip for anyone with a love for adventure. Oh- suggestions: 1. Take a waterproof camera (you will see dozens of beautiful sites and animals) 2. Wear sunscreen and your bathing suit. Go with an open heart and you will make a ton of friends.
Written April 9, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
"Go with an open heart and you will make a ton of friends."
That is such an awesome thing to say, thank you, thank you, thank you!
Written April 12, 2013
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rootiekazootie37
Bradenton, FL213 contributions
Mar 2013 • Family
My 13 year old son and I were in Phoenix for a week and decided to book this trip. We're SO glad we did. I have only rafted once, and it was a first for my son, and we both thought it was fabulous! The guides were super, the trip was a blast, the scenery spectacular, and we were blessed with perfect weather. Kelly, our raft guide, was very informative and patient. We had a big mouth teenager in our boat who really became annoying, but Kelly kept her cool and politely asked him to stop calling commands (as his mother seemed oblivious to his obnoxious behavior.) If I were to do this again (and we hope to do a 2 day next year) I would try to get 4-6 people to fill our own raft.
We did drive from Phoenix the morning of the trip. They say 2 1/2 hours, but we left Glendale at 6:50 AM, thinking the 10AM arrival would be a breeze with the extra time, and we hit SERIOUS traffic on I10, so the drive was more like 3+ hours. We just made it. Use the directions from their website, as my phone's GPS was taking me elsewhere. There are many locations where you won't get service anyway, so bring along your printed directions and FOLLOW THEM.
After the trip, on the way back up the river, the bus broke down (issues from sitting through the winter?) We were still about a mile away, so one of the guides RAN a mile down the canyon and then drove another bus BACKWARDS up the winding, narrow, canyon path, to get us back to our cars. My hero!! Due to this slight delay, we caught the most spectacular sunset on our drive back to Phoenix (which was only 2 1/2 hours without the traffic.)
Their dog, Atlas, is a sweetheart. We wanted to take him home.
Don't hesitate to do this trip. It's worth every penny. They provided everything we needed - wetsuits, booties, jackets (the water was COLD for this Florida girl.) Take a waterproof camera along, but don't eschew your rowing duties on the rapids.
Have fun!
We did drive from Phoenix the morning of the trip. They say 2 1/2 hours, but we left Glendale at 6:50 AM, thinking the 10AM arrival would be a breeze with the extra time, and we hit SERIOUS traffic on I10, so the drive was more like 3+ hours. We just made it. Use the directions from their website, as my phone's GPS was taking me elsewhere. There are many locations where you won't get service anyway, so bring along your printed directions and FOLLOW THEM.
After the trip, on the way back up the river, the bus broke down (issues from sitting through the winter?) We were still about a mile away, so one of the guides RAN a mile down the canyon and then drove another bus BACKWARDS up the winding, narrow, canyon path, to get us back to our cars. My hero!! Due to this slight delay, we caught the most spectacular sunset on our drive back to Phoenix (which was only 2 1/2 hours without the traffic.)
Their dog, Atlas, is a sweetheart. We wanted to take him home.
Don't hesitate to do this trip. It's worth every penny. They provided everything we needed - wetsuits, booties, jackets (the water was COLD for this Florida girl.) Take a waterproof camera along, but don't eschew your rowing duties on the rapids.
Have fun!
Written March 15, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I vote BEST review ever! You had a trip that captured what we as the owners and guides love about the Salt River Canyon. Everyday is different with its own challenges and victories and surprises. The only thing we know each morning before work is that we are going to have a blast and not be bored. Thanks so much for taking the time to write this for us.
Written March 17, 2013
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
TheSpartan2765
East Lansing, MI20 contributions
Mar 2012
My two boys (28 & 22) and I did a day trip down the river. The trip was an all day trip with 2 hours spent in the morning and afternoon on the river rafting. The staff was great and their knowledge of the river was very evident as the day progressed. They navigated the river so their were fewer times that the rafts got "hung up" on the rocks or bottom of the river. They allow us to stop numerous times throughout the trip to explore the shorelines or to go swim. They also shared some historical facts about the canyons and the plants and animals that live their. The dog was great the way he was able to stand-up and canoe down the river. The barbecue lunch was more than I expected. It consisted of fresh vegetable and fruit, burgers and or hotdogs and desert. If available, I would highly recommend getting the pictures on a cd. I have been able to share my experience with many family and friends. James and Prescott was the best.
Written March 21, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your review. I know the guides take great personal pride in their knowledge of the river and the area. We all recognize that it is the individual guide who spends the day with you that makes your experience and separates one company from another. And now we are in high water mode, so the rocks you navigated around are now underwater and our mascot, Atlas the Akita is there everyday watching over the rafters. Cheers!
Written March 27, 2012
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ryshfish
Chicago, IL70 contributions
Apr 2019 • Family
We were a little hesitant with this trip as online it says it was a nearly 3 hour drive from Phoenix. We’d already packed so much into our trip and the teens were gripping. However, I’m so glad we went. The drive ended up being just under 2.5 from our hotel in north Phoenix and that included a bathroom break. Spencer was our guide and he was just so awesome. Not only was his knowledge of the rocks and flora outstanding but he was also funny. Spencer did a great job integrating the other two passengers as well. Lunch was great!
Written April 23, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
99% of our guests are making the 2.5 hour drive from the Phoenix area and it is always worth it. The "Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive is the #1 of 20 things to do in Globe" on TripAdvisor. Thank you for the review!
Written May 2, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Brad C
Macomb, MI40 contributions
Apr 2019 • Family
We booked the all day rafting trip. The half day is an option but basically you lose out on the provided lunch and an additional 1.5-2 hours of rafting (the half day is probably only a good option if weather is questionable and you worried about bing cold). Provided for all were wet suits/boots/splash jackets and helmets. Guides also offered up sunscreen if needed. The price at first may seem a little high but when you compare it to other similar rafting adventures it was very fair.
The location is very remote and their is no cell reception, so print a map ahead of time to help guide you in (this is recommended on their website). The drive in is beautiful and breathtaking.
This trip is fine for beginner thrill seekers. We went through some class 4 rapids (the class can very dependent upon the water flow) and my eleven year old was fine, as well as my wife who won’t go on a roller coaster. I also saw people in their 70’s taking the ride. The motion is a jostling shake you around motion so if you have a bad back or something of that nature you might want to pass.
The guides were all friendly, polite, very helpful, and entertaining and shared out some great historical/nature points through the trip. When you picture a modern hippy in your mind that is what they all look like (there is no semblance of a uniform or even a guide shirt) but as they explained they all camp out for 2-3 months and then move to the next rafting area most often in other states or countries and work as guides there.
The lunch provided was tortilla chips, salsa, apples, oranges, water, orange juice, and chicken fajitas. For the fajitas they and shells, refrained beans, chicken, grilled peppers and onions, lettuce, cheese, jalapeños, and tomatoes. Cookies were for desert.
The bus or open air modified Jeep transport trip back was about 40 minutes. The ride is a bit bumpy but nothing more than what you experienced rafting. The guides still kept us entertained with jokes and pointing out sights to see. It was also nice being able from an elevated cliff side view being able to see where you just rode down the river through.
After they offered some pictures from a location in you trip. The pictures were offered to you on a thumb drive for $25. I thought price was more than fair. There have been some other excursions I have been on where they offered up a single pic for $10 or $20.
The only down side I can think of on the whole trip was if you have to use facilities portapotties are the only option. This didn’t bother me but for a my wife was the first time in her life she has ever had to use one and was an eye opening experience.
Conclusion: Great trip, book it.
The location is very remote and their is no cell reception, so print a map ahead of time to help guide you in (this is recommended on their website). The drive in is beautiful and breathtaking.
This trip is fine for beginner thrill seekers. We went through some class 4 rapids (the class can very dependent upon the water flow) and my eleven year old was fine, as well as my wife who won’t go on a roller coaster. I also saw people in their 70’s taking the ride. The motion is a jostling shake you around motion so if you have a bad back or something of that nature you might want to pass.
The guides were all friendly, polite, very helpful, and entertaining and shared out some great historical/nature points through the trip. When you picture a modern hippy in your mind that is what they all look like (there is no semblance of a uniform or even a guide shirt) but as they explained they all camp out for 2-3 months and then move to the next rafting area most often in other states or countries and work as guides there.
The lunch provided was tortilla chips, salsa, apples, oranges, water, orange juice, and chicken fajitas. For the fajitas they and shells, refrained beans, chicken, grilled peppers and onions, lettuce, cheese, jalapeños, and tomatoes. Cookies were for desert.
The bus or open air modified Jeep transport trip back was about 40 minutes. The ride is a bit bumpy but nothing more than what you experienced rafting. The guides still kept us entertained with jokes and pointing out sights to see. It was also nice being able from an elevated cliff side view being able to see where you just rode down the river through.
After they offered some pictures from a location in you trip. The pictures were offered to you on a thumb drive for $25. I thought price was more than fair. There have been some other excursions I have been on where they offered up a single pic for $10 or $20.
The only down side I can think of on the whole trip was if you have to use facilities portapotties are the only option. This didn’t bother me but for a my wife was the first time in her life she has ever had to use one and was an eye opening experience.
Conclusion: Great trip, book it.
Written April 4, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anyone who didn't read the full review must read the second to last paragraph about the port-a-potty. I laughed out loud! Thank you for the play by play review of the day, it does mean a lot to me and the guides and I appreciate the eye opening experience at the end (not olfactory experience)? Cheers!
Written April 8, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Greg K
Scottsdale, AZ3 contributions
Apr 2017 • Friends
Third time down the upper salt worth this group...great experience everytime! They are professional, safe, funny, and most importantly, experts at ensuring you have an amazing adventure. Check out their operation down the Arkansas river in CO...even better!
Written February 1, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks Greg, we love to get those reviews from repeat guests and a threepeat is even better. And if you don't catch us in the spring on the Salt River here near Phoenix, escape the summer heat and come and see the crew in either Durango or Salida Colorado,, closer than you might think, Cheers!
Written February 2, 2018
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Is rafting offered in the summer? I have a group of friends looking to go rafting this weekend. What are our options?
Written August 11, 2016
There are two types of rafting offered in the Phoenix & Tucson areas. Summer time is a float trip on the Lower Salt River where most people go tubing. Spring time rafting is world class white water in the Upper Salt River Canyon. Trips range from half and full day Level 3 to multi-day Level 3-4 in the federally protected Salt River Canyon Wilderness. Going with a commercial outfitter such as Salt River Rafting is recommended.
Written August 11, 2016
About 2 hours depending on traffic, but the whitewater stretch of the Upper Salt River Canyon only runs March-May, Cheers!
Written September 7, 2015
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