Saguaro Lake

Paddle year round on beautiful Saguaro lake. Whether you enjoy a refreshing day on the water to cool off in the summer months or looking to venture out on one of Arizona's warm winter afternoons, kayaking Saguaro Lake offers an escape stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. Step away from the stress of daily life and enjoy paddling along diverse desert cliff-lined shores and tall canyons on a guided kayaking tour with friends and family. Some of the local wildlife you can expect to see during your paddle may include bald eagles, bighorn sheep and blue heron. The contrast of the blue water against the desert topography is like nowhere else in the world. Meet your guide at Saguaro Lake's Butcher Jones Beach Recreation Site, approximately a 40-minute drive from Scottsdale or Tempe for pre-launch instructions to prepare for a 3-mile (approx. 3 hours) paddle tour to Willow Springs Canyon area and return to Butcher Jones. Your guide will provide all necessary paddle equipment, tips and information for an amazing experience.

Experience the spectacular landscapes of the Tonto National Forest on a guided kayaking tour around Saguaro Lake. Paddle through canyons, see beautiful desert scenery, and discover the local flora and native wildlife from a unique perspective. Escape the heat and feel refreshed by one of the most stunning lakes of Arizona. Travel at a leisure pace, giving you the opportunity to truly take in the picturesque views. Start with an orientation of basic safety and paddling instructions. The “sit-on-top” style kayaks are very stable and easy to maneuver or if you would prefer a paddleboard just give us a call or email. Before you know it you’ll be paddling below thousand-foot cliffs. Explore the lake's glimmering waters and discover coves and craggy shorelines. Keep your eyes open for the native wildlife native to the Tonto National Forest.

Explore one of Arizona’s most picturesque trails on an off-road H1 Hummer excursion. The trail winds through the heart of the Tonto National Forest and Arizona’s most beautiful mountain ranges: the 4 Peaks and the Superstition Mountains. Enjoy beautiful views of Saguaro Lake and learn about the flora and fauna of this majestic landscape. Experience the thrill as the Hummer conquers the rugged desert terrain. If you crave excitement you’ll be sure to feel the rush of adrenalin as the H1 climbs 60-degree slopes, traverses 40-degree side slopes, and fords up to 2.5 feet of water. Even with all the thrills, this is a family friendly excursion that is suitable for all ages.

This Butcher Jones Trail offers majestic views of Saguaro Lake, with beautiful high canyon walls and the natural beauty surrounding it. On this trail, you may see bighorn mountain sheep, bald eagles, and more wildlife. The landscape is dotted with towering saguaros, cholla, jojoba, and prickly pear. This Hike's difficulty rating is considered moderate and about 4.5 miles out and back, with an elevation gain of about 636 ft and its highest grade of 15%.