Experience the thrill of river stand-up paddleboarding on Arizona’s Lower Salt River. Join a private 90-minute lesson with ACA Certified instructors and explore the scenic waters just outside Tempe.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic balance and core strength, though prior paddling experience is not required.
Wildlife
History
The Lower Salt River area has long been central to Native American cultures, providing water resources and wildlife for centuries.
Conservation
Efforts focus on preserving water quality and natural habitats along the river to protect wildlife and maintain safe recreational access.
Riverbound Sports Paddle Co.
Experience the thrill of river stand-up paddleboarding on Arizona’s Lower Salt River. Join a private 90-minute lesson with ACA Certified instructors and explore the scenic waters just outside Tempe.
Riverbound Sports Paddle Co. is a Tempe, Arizona–based paddle sports provider offering inflatable kayak rentals, stand-up paddleboard (SUP) lessons, and guided paddling tours. The company focuses on accessible, gear-inclusive experiences that let visitors explore local lakes, rivers, and Tonto National Forest waterways. Rentals include one-person and two-person inflatable kayaks that are easy to transport and quick to inflate, with options for full-day or moonlight rentals and an early pickup available for select bookings.
Instructional programs range from 90-minute beginner lessons to structured SUP Skills courses. Riverbound Sports offers SUP Skills Levels 1–3 as two-hour sessions that cover stroke efficiency, sculling, reverse maneuvers, turns, bracing, and rescue techniques. The River SUP lesson on the Lower Salt River is taught by an ACA Certified instructor and focuses on navigating currents and board control in moving water. Guided tours include the Canyon Lake Paddle Tour through Tonto National Forest—highlighting Tortilla Creek and Mormon Flat Dam—and the Lower Salt River Tour featuring wildlife viewing and the Salt River wild horses.
All offerings are presented in third-person, skill-focused formats with clear equipment details and timeframes. The business lists rentals, small-group lessons, private lessons, multi-level skills courses, and guided tours to accommodate families, solo paddlers, and advanced paddlers seeking focused coaching. Riverbound Sports Paddle Co. emphasizes practical instruction, convenient rental logistics, and site-specific knowledge for paddling around Tempe and nearby Arizona waterways.
Location
Tempe, Arizona
Access to local lakes and rivers
Tours Offered
11 experiences
Kayak rentals, SUP lessons, guided tours
Certified Instruction
ACA Certified (River SUP)
Professional river safety coaching
Flexible Rentals
Day & Moonlight options
Easy pickup and quick inflation
Reserve inflatable kayaks, sign up for ACA‑certified river SUP lessons, or join a guided Canyon Lake or Lower Salt River tour—limited group sizes and seasonal availability.
Wear Water-Resistant Footwear
Protect your feet from rocky spots and slippery surfaces along the river’s edge.
Use Sunscreen and Sun Protection
The Arizona sun can be intense, so apply broad-spectrum sunscreen and wear a hat to avoid sunburn during your lesson.
Stay Hydrated
Bring a reusable water bottle and drink plenty of fluids before and after paddling to stay energized.
Listen Closely to Your Instructor
Following instructions carefully ensures safe navigation of currents and enhances your SUP skills experience.
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protect your skin from intense Arizona sun while on the river.
summer
Quick-Dry Clothing
Lightweight moisture-wicking clothes keep you comfortable both on and off the water.
Water Shoes
Provide grip and protect feet on rocky riverbanks and in shallow water.
Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is essential during any outdoor activity in the desert heat.