3-Hour Paddle Tour of Saguaro Lake
Embark on a 3-Hour Paddle Tour of Saguaro Lake
Launching from Butcher Jones Beach, come join us for a 3-mile (approx. 2.5-3 hours) paddle tour of some of the lake's beautiful scenery and wildlife. This tour is ideal for paddlers 12 years old and up,
Offer Details:
The paddle tour is $120 per person and offered on Saturdays and Sundays through the 2025 season. Reservations are required. Groups of 6 or more are welcome to call to customize alternate dates and times.
About Saguaro Lake:
Named after the abundant cacti in this region of the Sonoran Desert, Saguaro Lake is the closest scenic lake to Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe and Mesa.
For the paddle tour, we will be meeting at Butcher Jones Recreation Site which is easily accessible via a paved access road on the north side of beautiful Saguaro Lake.
Maybe capture some diverse desert wildlife along the rugged cliff-lined shores. Bald eagles, big-horn sheep and blue herons might make an appearance. The contrast of the blue water against the desert topography is like nowhere else in the world.
What To Know:
The meeting location will be at Butcher Jones beach on the north shore of Saguaro Lake. The location is approximately a 40-minute drive from the Scottsdale and Tempe area. Try to be parked at least 15 minutes before the adventure begins. Parking on Holidays and weekends can be full so it is best to arrive early.
The route of the tour can vary due to weather and paddlers' abilities. We always chose the safest route and no paddler is left behind. We plan for at least one or two breaks during the tour for snacks and photos. Prior kayaking experience is recommended but not required. Participants should be comfortable on open water and be able to swim.
All our tour guides are certified through the American Canoe Association (ACA) for instruction, guiding, and water safety. Each guide is first aid and CPR certified. Riverbound is an authorized outfitter operating under a permit through the Tonto National Forest Mesa District.
Your guide will provide all necessary paddle equipment, tips and information for an amazing experience. All of the paddling gear is provided: Kayaks or stand-up paddleboards, paddles, life jackets, and a dry bag.
We also provide parking passes, water and light snacks.
What To Bring:
- Hats, sunglasses with lanyards and sunscreen
- Clothes that can get wet - athletic dry-fit style clothes and swimwear are recommended. You will get wet. Windbreaker style jackets for cooler windier days - avoid cotton and sweatshirts
- Water shoes or all-terrain sandals are ideal (the walk from the parking area to the shoreline is a combination of asphalt, gravel and low desert brush)
- Optional change of clothes to leave in your vehicle
