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Canyon Lake Paddle Tour in Roosevelt, Arizona - Phoenix

Canyon Lake Paddle Tour in Roosevelt, Arizona

Roosevelteasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; basic paddling stamina recommended

Overview

Explore Canyon Lake’s stunning waters on a private paddle tour with Riverbound Sports Paddle Co. Paddle through scenic spots like Tortilla Creek and keep an eye out for bald eagles on this all-level adventure.

Roosevelt, Arizona

Canyon Lake Paddle Tour

Paddle Canyon Lake Tour

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Adventure Photos

Canyon Lake Paddle Tour photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Canyon Lake with a guided paddling tour through Tonto National Forest. Enjoy kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding while exploring stunning sites like Tortilla Creek and Mormon Flat Dam. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including bald eagles and bobcats, in this immersive adventure suitable for all skill levels.

Canyon Lake is one of the more unique and picturesque paddling tours within Tonto National Forest. Towering canyon walls and desert landscape give this paddling adventure a very immersive feel.

  • Kayaking and/or stand up paddleboarding instruction followed by a 3-4 mile (~2.5 hours) out-and-back paddle.
  • Notable sites on this tour include Tortilla Creek, Mormon Flat Dam, and First Water Bridge.
  • Wildlife is common here. Keep watch for bald eagles, native hawks, blue herons, bobcats, mule deer, and desert bighorn sheep that stand watch high on the canyon walls.
  • This adventure is great for paddlers of all levels. Please note that this is a water event and YOU WILL GET WET.

Trip Details

When:

  • This tour is available year round.
  • Days and times change depending on the time of year.

Where:

  • Tours launch from Acacia Recreation Site. Launch site subject to change based on weather and other variables. - Historic Apache Trail (State Route 88) is narrow and winding, but very scenic. Allow adequate travel time to arrive 15 minutes before your launch time.

What is Provided:

  • Kayak or stand up paddle board, paddle, PFD (life jacket), dry bag, Tonto Forest Parking Pass, water, light snacks.

What to Wear:

  • Hat, sunglasses, sun protective clothing, shoes or all-terrain sandals that can get wet.

What to Bring:

  • Extra water and snacks are always welcome, Sunscreen, Camera with a floating case, Change of Dry Clothes.
  • Launch site is equipped with vault toilets but NO RUNNING WATER.

Special Considerations:

  • Double kayak options available.
  • Contact us if you have children under 8 years old, special physical needs, exceed 275 lbs.
  • Children under 12 years old are required to be in a double kayak with an adult guardian.

We will do our best to accommodate your needs and share this beautiful adventure with us! Contact us directly at 480-463-6686 or email INFO@RIVERBOUNDSPORTS.COM

*The tour is subject to change or be canceled due to weather conditions. All participants must wear a PFD during the tour. No exceptions. Participants should be able to swim.

*Riverbound is an authorized outfitter operating under permit through the Tonto National Forest Mesa District. We are permitted to provide tours at Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake, and the Lower Salt River. All tour guides are CPR certified and ACA (American Canoe Association) certified for instruction, guiding, and water safety.

Adventure Tips

Wear Lightweight, Sun-Protective Clothing

Arizona’s desert sun can be intense, so dress in breathable, long-sleeve layers and wear a wide-brimmed hat.

Bring Plenty of Water

Hydration is key, especially during warmer months—carry at least 2 liters of water per person.

Apply Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect your skin without harming the lake’s ecosystem by using eco-friendly sunscreen.

Wear a Personal Flotation Device

Life jackets are mandatory and provided; wearing them ensures safety while paddling.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagle
  • Bobcat

History

Canyon Lake was created by the Mormon Flat Dam in the 1920s and has long been a popular recreational spot.

Conservation

Riverbound Sports Paddle Co. promotes sustainable paddling practices to preserve the natural beauty and wildlife of Tonto National Forest.

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Adventure Hotspots in Phoenix

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Water Shoes

Essential

Protect your feet from rocky shorelines and keep comfortable while on and off the water.

summer specific

Wide-Brimmed Hat

Essential

Shields your face and neck from harsh sun exposure during lake paddling.

summer specific

Reusable Water Bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is crucial, and refill stations are limited near the lake.

Lightweight Windbreaker

Helps block cool winds especially during early mornings or late afternoons.

fall specific