Salt River Tubing in Arizona is a self-guided float down a stretch of the Salt River, with shuttle transport back to your car. You rent a tube, take a shuttle to your starting point, and float downstream at your own pace, with the river’s current doing the work. The trip is popular from late spring through early fall, and the whole experience—from parking to pick-up—is managed by a single private operator at the recreation site.
North-east of Phoenix, through Tonto National Forest, flows the Salt River. The recreation site at the river bank offers entertainment for individual adventurers, groups, and families. Salt River tubing is an alternative to usual picnics for those who aren't afraid to get their feet wet.
What Is So Special About Salt River Tubing In Arizona?
Salt River is about 200 miles long. It flows over large salt deposits that eventually make the water salty, hence its name. Arizona is one of the few places in the world with a river that contains no “sweet water”.
Tonto National Forest provides a mixture of picturesque river banks, quiet creeks, and steep mountain cliffs. The changing scenery along the river keeps you entertained downstream. Steep curves are followed by easier areas that give you a chance to catch your breath, have a snack, or exchange impressions with your friends.
Getting To Salt River, Arizona
The adventure starts from the Salt River recreation site at 9200 N Bush Highway, Mesa. It is approx. 35 miles from Phoenix and the only way to get there is by car. The recreation site has ample parking, so finding a spot shouldn’t be a problem unless you visit during a national holiday. The second best option is a taxi, which will cost you from $40 one way.
How Things Work At Salt River, Arizona
At Salt River Tubing, trips are available from 9 a.m. on weekends, with river and shuttle return operations continuing until 6 p.m., but the last tube departs at 2:00 p.m. The whole route is split into 3 destination points - point 1, 2 and 4.
Depending on the route you choose, it can take anywhere from 2 (points 1-2) to 3 (points 2-4) to 5 hours (point 1-4) to complete the journey. A shuttle bus takes you from “Salt River Tubing HQ” to the “starting point” and then picks you up at the “destination point” to take you back to the Salt River Tubing recreation site. Along the route, signs mark the exits for points 1, 2, and 4. Be careful not to miss your exit—otherwise the way home will be much longer than expected.
The operator says it is only open Fridays through Sundays in September, and 2026 hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. on weekends, with river and shuttle return operations continuing until 6 p.m. If you visit in September, plan for a Friday through Sunday trip, and note the earlier start time on weekends.
Are There Rules To Follow When Tubing At Salt River, Arizona?
Salt River Tubing is a family-friendly attraction, but there are safety regulations. You have to be at least 8 years old and 4 feet tall to participate. Wear a life vest if you are not a confident swimmer, and the same rule applies to children of all ages. If you don’t have or don’t want to bring a life vest, they are available for purchase on-site.
Renting a tube requires a government-issued ID, so bring a passport or a driver’s license. One person can rent up to 5 tubes. Alcohol consumption during tubing is strictly forbidden, and your bags will be checked for restricted items.
When Is The Best Time For Tubing At Salt River, Arizona?
The exact start date for the tubing season on Salt River varies every year. However, it mostly comes in late spring (April-May). The peak of the season is June to July when locals spend more time outdoors with their families. Arizona heat urges people to look for a refreshing oasis.
Expect some waiting time during national and state holidays. The popularity of tubing starts to fade out after Labor Day. In September it is only available Friday through Sunday. Our recommendation is to plan your visit to Salt River either before mid-June or in August-September.
Special Occasions & Themed Events At Salt River, Arizona
Or do you wish to blow some dust off that Aquaman costume you’ve been saving after Halloween? Check Salt River Tubing's special events calendar. Every year Salt River Tubing hosts themed events, such as Rockin' Rodeo Roundup or Super Heroes SplashDown. The best costume wins a free tubing passage. For the exact dates this year, check the event calendar on the official Salt River Tubing website.
The Weather In Arizona...
Arizona is a warm state. Phoenix, the closest city to Salt River, is located in one of the sunniest regions in the world. Summer highs often exceed 100°F, so the water temperature—which stays refreshingly cool—is a big part of the appeal. The river’s flow can vary by season and snowmelt, so check conditions before you go.
What To Bring To Salt River, Arizona?
- A swimsuit is a must since Salt River Tubing is a water-related attraction. However, you will also need some clothes to protect your skin from sun.
- Apply strong sunscreen, SPF 50 and up, both before and during tubing.
- Rental tubes are black and quickly get hot under the sunlight. Bring a towel you won’t regret getting wet to cover the tube.
- Some trips can take up to 5 hours, so packing food is essential. Bring dry snacks or other light non-perishables like protein bars.
- Bring Ziplocs to keep smaller valuables, like phones and wallets, dry.
Glass bottles are restricted by law, so bring any produce and water only in plastic containers. Tubing hosts will provide you with special bags for trash disposal, so collect all your litter on the route.
What Would It Cost To Go Tubing At Salt River, Arizona?
Tubing rental will cost you $28 per tube; this price also includes the shuttle. If you have your own tube and want to only book a shuttle ride, you’ll have to pay $22. A lost or ruined tube will cost $30. You can buy a life vest on site. The 2026 prices are $28 for tube rental plus shuttle, and $22 for shuttle only with your own tube.
What Else Is There To Do Around Salt River, Arizona?
Spending time outside on the Salt River site is a full-day activity for the whole family or a group of friends. As an alternative to tubing, you can choose kayaking. Any non-motor vessel is permitted on Salt River, so you can choose what suits you best to enjoy the stream. However, shuttles won’t take you on board if your vessel is not made of rubber or vinyl and is much bigger than a regular tube.
If you don’t feel like getting wet, Tonto National Forest has plenty to offer as the largest forest in Arizona. You can enjoy a hike on one of the numerous tracks with a beautiful landscape while the rest of your group goes tubing. If you have limited time, we recommend hiking a section of the Tonto Trail or exploring the whereabouts of the Salt River recreation site.
The river’s edge also has calm spots for picnicking, and wildlife watchers might spot bald eagles, blue herons, or river otters. For a longer stay, nearby campgrounds and day-use areas let you extend your visit. If you’re planning around a holiday, arrive early—parking lots fill fast, and the shuttle lines can stretch by mid-morning.
The river’s current is gentle enough for first-timers, but it’s not a lazy river ride. You’ll steer with your hands and feet, and you’ll likely bump into rocks or brush against banks. Water levels drop by late summer, which means more exposed gravel bars and a slower float. Check the operator’s website for flow reports before you drive out.
For those who want a shorter outing, the point 1 to point 2 stretch takes about 2 hours. The full point 1 to point 4 run is closer to 5 hours, so budget for food, water, and sun protection. There are no food vendors on the river, so what you pack is what you have. Also, restrooms are only at the recreation site, not along the river.
If you’re bringing kids, the minimum age and height rules are strictly enforced—no exceptions. Life vests are required for children under a certain age and for weak swimmers, but even strong swimmers often wear them for the sun protection alone. The river water can be chilly even in July, so a rash guard or old t-shirt is a smart addition.
Parking at the recreation site is free, but it’s first-come, first-served. On summer weekends, the lot can fill by 10 a.m. If you’re coming from Phoenix, plan for about a 45-minute drive each way. Rideshare drop-off is allowed, but pick-up at the end of the day usually means walking to the main road to get a signal.
The shuttle buses run continuously during operating hours, so you don’t need a reservation—just buy your ticket at the booth and hop on. Each bus holds about 20 people plus tubes, and the ride to the starting point takes 10–15 minutes. The driver will give a quick safety spiel, but the rules are simple: no glass, no alcohol, no Styrofoam.
If you forget something, the on-site shop sells sunscreen, water shoes, and cheap sunglasses. They also rent dry bags for a small fee, which is worth it if you want to bring your phone along for photos. The water is not deep enough for serious swimming in most spots—it’s more about floating and relaxing.
For the best experience, go on a weekday if you can. The water is clearer, the crowds are thinner, and you’ll have more space between you and other tubers. If you must go on a weekend, aim for the first shuttle of the day—by noon, the river gets congested, especially near the take-out points.
Wear old sneakers or water shoes. The riverbed is rocky, and walking barefoot to launch your tube is painful. You’ll also need them if you stop at a sandbar for a picnic. Reapply sunscreen every hour, even if you’re in the water.
Salt River Tubing is run by a single concessionaire, and they don’t allow outside tubes on their shuttles. If you bring your own, you’re limited to the river access points that are open to the public, which are fewer and farther between. The easiest option is to rent on-site and let them handle the logistics.
The season typically runs from April through September, but the water can be too low by August in dry years. The operator posts flow updates on their website, so check before you go. If the river is closed, you can still visit the recreation area for hiking or picnicking, but you won’t be able to tube.
The 2026 rates are $28 for a tube rental plus shuttle, and $22 for shuttle only if you have your own tube. These prices include the shuttle service. No current price for a life vest is provided in the sourced facts, so budget extra if you need to buy one on-site.
Themed events add a fun twist, but they also draw bigger crowds. If you’re planning to attend one, book your tubes in advance and arrive early. The costume contest is popular, and the free tubing pass for the best outfit is a nice perk, but the real value is just being out on the water with friends.
For a family-friendly outing, consider pairing tubing with a short hike on the Tonto Trail. The trailhead is right near the recreation site, and you can do a 2-mile loop in under an hour. It’s a good way to stretch your legs after a few hours on the river, and the views of the surrounding mountains are worth the effort.
If you’re visiting from out of town, there are several hotels in Mesa and Tempe within a 30-minute drive. Many offer discounts for Salt River Tubing customers, so ask when booking. You’ll also find plenty of fast-food and casual dining options on the way back to Phoenix, but the on-site snack bar has basic drinks and ice cream if you need a quick pick-me-up.
Bring cash for tips if you use the valet parking or buy a souvenir t-shirt. The gift shop is small but has decent merch, including hats and water bottles. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take the shuttle ride easy—the roads are bumpy, and the bus can get hot.
Finally, respect the river. Pack out everything you bring in, including your trash bag. The hosts provide bags at the start, but you’re responsible for carrying them to the end. The river is clean because tubers make an effort, and keeping it that way ensures everyone can enjoy it for years to come.
Related travel guides: 12 Abandoned Ghost Towns in Arizona You Can Explore, 20 Best Caving Destinations in the World, and 10 Best Places for Canyoning in the World.
