Adventure Brief
Enjoy a serene morning kayaking Roosevelt Lake with a guided tour and breakfast picnic. Experience the calm waters and desert vistas of Arizona’s Tonto National Forest.
2–3 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Enjoy a serene morning kayaking Roosevelt Lake with a guided tour and breakfast picnic. Experience the calm waters and desert vistas of Arizona’s Tonto National Forest.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for beginners and casual fitness levels, minimal strenuous effort required
Wildlife
History
Roosevelt Lake was created in 1911 when Theodore Roosevelt Dam was completed, playing a key role in regional water management.
Conservation
The tour emphasizes Leave No Trace principles to protect the fragile desert ecosystem and water quality.
Southwest Adventure Company
Enjoy a serene morning kayaking Roosevelt Lake with a guided tour and breakfast picnic. Experience the calm waters and desert vistas of Arizona’s Tonto National Forest.
Southwest Adventure Company is a Rio Verde, Arizona-based outdoor tour operator offering guided paddling, hiking, and private day-trip experiences across central Arizona.
The company runs lake kayak and paddleboard tours at Roosevelt Lake, Bartlett Lake, and SB Cove, plus full-day private excursions to the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Scottsdale. Tours include Morning Glow Kayak & Breakfast options at Roosevelt Lake and Bartlett Lake, two-hour guided kayak and paddling tours, self-guided paddling at Bartlett Lake, and multi-stop private day trips with picnic lunches.
Certified guides and knowledgeable naturalists lead hikes and paddling tours, providing insights into the Sonoran Desert, Tonto National Forest, saguaro ecosystems, and local history. Several experiences include provided gear, snacks, hydration, and transportation; for example, the Private Grand Canyon Experience includes door-to-door transport from Phoenix or Scottsdale, and the Private Guided Saguaro Discovery Hike includes transportation and comfortable gear.
Southwest Adventure Company emphasizes small-group and private formats suitable for couples, families, and custom groups seeking nature-focused outings. Safety, ecological awareness, and respectful use of public lands are integrated into trip planning and guiding. Booking options include guided, private, and self-guided tours to suit different skill levels and interests. Trip lengths range from two-hour paddles to full-day excursions.
Visitors can expect scenic views of the Mazatzal Mountains, red rock formations near Sedona, and diverse desert flora and fauna during outings. Southwest Adventure Company operates within established park and forest areas in central Arizona and focuses on delivering well-organized, experience-driven outdoor adventures. Reservations and custom itineraries are available year-round today.
Tours Offered
10 tours
Guided, private, and self-guided options
Key Destinations
Roosevelt, Bartlett, Sedona, Grand Canyon
Lakes, red rocks, and canyon rims
Private & Custom
Private tours
Small groups and custom itineraries
Guided Experiences
Certified guides
Local insights and safety focus
Reserve a kayak, paddleboard, hike, or private full-day trip and experience Arizona’s lakes, desert, and Grand Canyon with experienced guides.
Arrive Early to Catch the Best Light
The soft morning light enhances both your photos and your experience on the water. Plan to arrive at dawn.
Wear Layers for Changing Temperatures
Mornings can be cool while the sun is rising but warm quickly; layering helps maintain comfort.
Bring a Water Bottle
Hydration is key, even during early tours in desert climates.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself and the environment by choosing reef-safe options for sun protection.
Lightweight Waterproof Jacket
Spring mornings can be cool; a waterproof jacket keeps you warm and dry.
spring
Wide-Brimmed Hat
Protects your face and neck from strong desert sun during summer paddles.
summer
Breathable Long Sleeve Shirt
Provides sun protection while allowing sweat to evaporate on cooler fall mornings.
fall
Insulating Layers
Keeps you warm during crisp winter dawns on the water.
winter