Run 52 miles of free-flowing river through 1.4-billion-year-old granite on a three-day guided Salt River canyon trip. Expect Class IV rapids, riverside camping, Salado ruins and concentrated desert wildlife.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
At first light the river is a ribbon of slate and glass threading through granite walls. The Salt River pushes forward with low, dangerous confidence — a river that dares you to move with it. Over three days, 52 miles of free-flowing water slices a corridor through 1.4-billion-year-old granite, dropping through a succession of stout Class IV rapids: Black Rock, The Maze, Quartzite Falls and Corkscrew. Rafts collide gently with whitewash and the canyon exhales birdsong.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Moderate cardiovascular fitness recommended; basic swimming ability useful. Guided crews do physical paddling work, but you should be comfortable with sustained activity and camping.
Wildlife
History
The Salt River corridor contains Salado culture ruins dating roughly 800 years back; the canyon later became part of Tonto National Forest and was federally protected as wilderness in 1984.
Conservation
Trips run under strict wilderness and tribal protocols; practice leave-no-trace camping and follow guides’ instructions to minimize footprint on sensitive riparian zones.
Reserve your spot on the Wilderness Salt River Raft Trip today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Hydrate early and often
Arizona sun is deceptive; carry at least 3 liters per day in a reusable bottle and rehydrate at every stop.
Wear river shoes with toe protection
Slick granite and sharp gravel make sandals risky—closed-toe neoprene river shoes reduce stubbed toes and abrasions.
Bring a small dry bag
Keep electronics and a spare layer dry; even short swims and splashes will soak gear quickly.
Listen to the safety briefing
Guides control the boats—obey commands during rapids and practice the rescue positions they teach.
Quick-dry clothing
Dries fast after splashes and keeps you comfortable at camp.
River shoes or closed-toe water sandals
Protects feet on slick granite and during river exits.
Wide-brim sun hat & SPF 30+ sunscreen
Strong desert sun reflects off water—shade and high-SPF protection prevent burns.
summer
Medium dry bag (20–30L)
Keeps electronics, spare clothes and documents dry in wet conditions.