RIO VERDE CANOE FIELD GUIDE
Paddle SB Cove: A Quiet, Self-Guided Crossing of Bartlett Lake Beneath the Mazatzals
A 2-hour self-guided kayak or paddleboard outing launched from SB Cove that lets paddlers of all ages move at their own pace through Bartlett Lake’s Tonto National Forest setting.
Paddle SB Cove: A Quiet, Self-Guided Crossing of Bartlett Lake Beneath the Mazatzals.
Set against the rugged sweep of the Mazatzal Mountains and the piñon-scrub slopes of Tonto National Forest, the Self-Guided Bartlett Lake Paddling Tour begins on the small beaches of SB Cove. Over a two-hour on-water window within a four-hour experience, paddlers choose a kayak or paddleboard, push off from shore, and explore quiet coves, swimable stretches and open water at their own pace.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Mazatzal ridgelines and Tonto National Forest vistas
The route sits in the bowl of Bartlett Lake framed by the Mazatzal Mountains and Tonto National Forest, offering broad, scenic views from the water for the duration of the paddle.
Self-guided freedom on a two-hour paddle
This is a self-guided outing: after launch from SB Cove you set your pace for the two-hour on-water portion, exploring shorelines and coves independently.
All basic gear provided and opportunities to swim
The operator supplies the watercraft, paddles, personal flotation devices and dry boxes, and the itinerary includes chances to swim and independently explore, weather permitting.
What the day feels like
What the paddle feels like
After meeting on the SB Cove beach you pick a kayak or paddleboard and push into the glassy expanse of Bartlett Lake. The two-hour self-guided window is relaxed—stretches of steady paddling open to quiet coves and swim stops—allowing for lingering on views of the surrounding forested slopes and mountain backdrops.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The overall experience is a four-hour outing that includes a two-hour self-guided on-water paddle across Bartlett Lake.
The meeting and launch point is the SB Cove Swimming Area at Bartlett Lake.
The operator provides the chosen watercraft (kayak or paddleboard), paddles, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and dry boxes for belongings.
Participants are free to explore shorelines and swim during the two-hour paddling window, subject to weather conditions.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the outing?
The total experience is four hours with a two-hour self-guided on-water paddle.
Where do we meet and launch?
Meet at the SB Cove Swimming Area on Bartlett Lake for gear distribution and launch.
What ages can participate?
Participants ages 5 and older are accepted on this outing.
Is the paddle guided?
No — this is a self-guided tour: you are provided a kayak or paddleboard and a two-hour window to explore independently.
What gear is provided?
The operator supplies the chosen kayak or paddleboard, paddles, PFDs, and dry boxes for your belongings.
Can I swim during the tour?
Yes — the itinerary includes opportunities for swimming and independent exploration when weather permits.