MESA WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Float Among Saguaros: Tubing the Salt River Through Tonto National Forest
A weather-dependent 2–5 hour tubing float that includes your tube, round-trip shuttle and free parking—this guide breaks down logistics, rules, and what to bring.
Float Among Saguaros: Tubing the Salt River Through Tonto National Forest.
There’s nothing quite like drifting the Salt River: cool, clear water winding through Tonto National Forest with saguaro-studded banks and the occasional band of wild horses. The gentle float is designed for relaxation—sit back, splash, and take in the desert canyon scenery until you reach the take-out and a well-earned snack.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
All-inclusive rentals and shuttle service
Your reservation bundles a tube, round-trip shuttle to the put-in, and free on-site parking so the logistics are handled up front—book online and arrive with your group.
Last floats go out at 2 PM (weather & water permitting)
The operation runs all-day passes but final rentals depart at 2 PM subject to weather and river conditions—float times vary from day to day.
Bucket/cooler tubes and life vests on hand
You can rent bucket/cooler tubes alongside a tube rental or bus pass to keep drinks and snacks afloat; life vests are available (purchase in person for $15 or buy online to save 10%).
What the day feels like
What it feels like to float the Salt River
The pace is relaxed and scenic—cool river water, saguaro-lined banks and canyon views frame a mellow float where groups drift side-by-side, watch for wildlife, and soak up the desert sun before returning to the take-out for a snack.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who will get the most out of this float—and who should take precautions.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring your crew, sunscreen, and coolers filled only with plastic bottles or cans; the operator provides tubes, shuttle service and free parking as part of the booking.
Coolers are inspected prior to boarding—no glass containers, no Styrofoam, and all drinks must be in plastic or cans.
Bucket/cooler tubes are available as add-ons when you rent a tube or bus pass; life vests can be purchased at check-in or saved for online purchase.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long will I be on the river?
Float times vary with river conditions; estimated time on the river is 2–5 hours.
What is included with my booking?
Bookings include a rental tube, round-trip shuttle to the put-in, and free on-site parking.
What are the last departure times?
Last rentals go out at 2 PM, weather and water permitting.
What can I bring in my cooler?
Only plastic bottles and cans are allowed; glass containers, Styrofoam, and marshmallows are prohibited and coolers are inspected.
Are life vests available?
Life vests are available at check-in (in-person purchase $15) and can be bought online to save 10%; they are strongly encouraged for non-swimmers and youth.
Where do I meet for my trip?
Meet at Salt River Tubing at 9200 N Bush Hwy, Mesa AZ 85215; free parking is available on site.