Viator Rating : 5 (2624 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.3/10 (Solid Experience)
Phoenix
Salt River Kayak Foxtail Trip: Wild Horses & Scenery!
120
Overview
Kayaking the Salt River Foxtail Trip offers a scenic adventure through the Tonto National Forest. Starting at Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch, people can kayak down a five-mile stretch of the Salt River. This unguided trip is perfect for those who love seeing wild horses and other animals that come to the river.
The Salt River is a beautiful place to paddle, and this trip lets people see it up close. This experience is the only kayak rental company right on the Salt River. That means trips start right from the site. Each person gets a kayak (or paddleboard if asked for ahead of time), a paddle, a life jacket, and a ride back to the starting place.
Keep in mind that this is not a guided tour. While it's mostly a relaxing float, some parts of the river are fast-moving, and people might fall out. Be ready to get wet and have fun while seeing the beautiful Salt River! 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Upsell Risk (8 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Safety (7 - Cautious) : Mostly okay but required alertness
Logistics (7 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Guide Quality (6 - Adequate) : Informative but average
Guide Reliability (7 - Inconsistent) : Present but late or rushed
Highlights
See Wild Horses: Watch wild horses cool off in the Salt River.
Paddle Through Nature: Kayak down a scenic river in the Tonto National Forest.
Easy Start: Launch your kayak right from the rental site.
All Gear Included: Kayak, paddle, and life jacket are provided.
Sentiment Analysis
Guests loved seeing the wild horses up close.
-
Many enjoyed the relaxing float down the river.
-
The shuttle service back to the starting point was appreciated.
-
People thought it was a great way to experience nature.
Some people found the water to be colder than expected.
-
A few wished there were more instructions for beginners.
The Journey
Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch
The starting point of the kayaking tour. Participants check in, prepare for the trip, and receive paddling equipment. It serves as both the launch and return point via shuttle.
Tonto National Forest
A large natural area through which the Salt River flows. It is home to diverse wildlife, including wild horses and various bird species, enhancing the scenic beauty of the kayaking experience.
Salt River
A scenic river that flows through the Tonto National Forest. It provides a kayaking route where participants can enjoy views and wildlife. Expect swift water in certain sections.
Foxtail Administration Site
The endpoint of the kayaking trip. Participants are picked up by a shuttle here and transported back to Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch after completing the river journey.
Know Before You Go
This kayaking experience includes a single sit-on-top kayak or paddleboard, a life jacket, and a paddle. It does not include a guide, hotel pick-up or drop-off, or gratuities. People will meet at the Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch. The experience includes paddling on your own down the Salt River, and a shuttle will bring you back to the starting point.
Hot Tip
Many people who have done the kayak tour recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Also, be sure to bring water so you can stay hydrated in the Arizona sun. Consider purchasing a dry bag on-site to protect belongings. Be prepared to get wet!
Review Summary
Customers generally say this kayaking trip offers a beautiful and scenic experience with excellent equipment and a convenient launch directly from Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch. Positive feedback highlights wildlife sightings such as wild horses and birds, and an enjoyable, smooth group experience. The unguided nature and sections of swift water cause some kayakers to tip over, so being prepared to get wet is commonly mentioned. Some travelers note the trip requires basic swimming ability and comfort with self-guided paddling, which can be challenging for beginners or those seeking a fully guided tour.
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Arizona
$120
Saguaro Lake Kayak Tour: Desert Views & Wildlife!
5.0
(19 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Scenic Guided Kayaking Tour on Saguaro Lake offers a special way to see the Arizona desert. Instead of hiking, guests can paddle on the calm, blue water and see amazing views. The shores of Saguaro Lake have tall cliffs and canyons. People of all ages can enjoy a relaxing day on the water.
During the kayak tour, expect to see local wildlife, like bald eagles, bighorn sheep, and blue herons. The tour makes stops at Butcher Jones Recreation Site and Willow Springs Canyon, popular spots for seeing the desert scenery and wildlife. The blue water and desert plants make a beautiful picture that guests won't forget.
This small-group tour includes a kayak, paddle, life jacket, dry bag, bottled water, snacks, and parking fees. Private transportation is not included. Local guides who have been paddling on the lakes and rivers around Phoenix for over 15 years lead the tour. The guides are certified by the American Canoe Association (ACA) in instruction, guiding, and water safety. They also know first aid and CPR.
Sedona
$181
Sedona's Verde River: Kayak & Wine Tasting Adventure!
4.8
(393 reviews)
Embark on the 2 Hours Water to Wine Kayak Trip from Cottonwood, a unique Arizona experience blending a scenic kayak trip down the Verde River with delightful wine tasting. Enjoy the exclusive tour of wine with nature. Remember to bring your photo ID. This leisurely adventure requires no prior kayaking experience.
Phoenix
$160
Unearth Arizona's Secrets: Apache Trail & Dolly Steamboat Canyon Cruise
4.8
(200 reviews)
Duration: 480
minutes
The Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat tour explores Arizona's Sonoran Desert and Canyon Lake. Enjoy a narrated 90-minute cruise spotting wildlife. The tour visits Tortilla Flat, a historic stagecoach stop, offering a glimpse into the Old West. This guided adventure offers a unique blend of history and desert scenery.
Scottsdale
$599.99
Pedal-Powered Party: Scottsdale's Ultimate Private Bike Adventure!
5.0
(3493 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Party Bike Private Party in Old Town Scottsdale offers a unique pedal pub experience for up to 14 people. Enjoy exclusive drink specials, bar perks, and the freedom to bring your own beverages onboard. Pedal through Scottsdale while partying with friends, creating unforgettable memories.
Scottsdale
$69.99
Old Town Scottsdale Pedal Bar Crawl: Party on Wheels!
5.0
(4240 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
The Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale offers a unique party bike experience, seating up to 14. Enjoy exclusive drink specials and line-cutting privileges at three partner bars, guided by a certified captain. Bring your own drinks and pedal through Scottsdale's nightlife for an unforgettable adventure.
Scottsdale
$199
Scottsdale UTV Tour: Desert Off-Road Adventure
5.0
(1180 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Desert Off-Road UTV Tour, outside of Scottsdale, Arizona, offers a thrilling, small-group off-road adventure through the scenic Tonto National Forest. This isn't just another crowded tour; group sizes are limited to five or fewer vehicles, ensuring a personalized experience away from the dust and crowds of larger tours. Instead of being in a line of 15, 20, or even 30 vehicles, this ensures a much better experience.
Participants get to drive their own late-model Honda Talon UTV, following a seasoned professional tour guide across 25 miles of diverse desert terrain. The tour provides bottled water, snacks, helmets, goggles, a head sock, and a neck gaiter for comfort and safety. This guided UTV tour is designed for adventure seekers who want to explore the beauty of the Arizona desert from behind the wheel.
The tour operator prides themselves on offering a superior off-road experience. They are a great option for those seeking a more intimate and immersive desert adventure. The office will contact each booking to schedule a start time, and with directions to the meeting location.
Nearby Events
ASU Gammage
Nov 07
7:00 PMDance Theatre of Harlem
Chase Field
Nov 15
6:00 PMHondo Rodeo Fest: Parker McCollum at Chase Field
Hondo Rodeo Fest - Round Three feat. Parker McCollum at Chase Field brings one of Phoenix’s biggest fall event weekends into a single night of rodeo action and country-rock star power. The third-year festival pairs championship rodeo finals with live performances from Parker McCollum and Lynyrd Skynyrd, creating a high-energy experience that blends Western competition with a major concert atmosphere.
Hondo Rodeo Fest has built its reputation around big-name lineups and a family-friendly festival format, and Parker McCollum’s Sunday appearance adds modern country appeal to a bill that also includes Lynyrd Skynyrd’s legendary Southern rock catalog. Chase Field, home to the Arizona Diamondbacks, is one of downtown Phoenix’s best-known large-scale venues and gives the event a central, easy-to-reach setting with stadium-style production and city views.
State Farm Stadium
Jan 03
2:05 PMBook Tickets: Arizona Cardinals vs Las Vegas Raiders at State Farm Stadium
Arizona Cardinals and Las Vegas Raiders clash at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ for their final 2025 preseason matchup. This electric NFL preseason game features both teams testing their rosters before the regular season, with the Cardinals securing a 20-10 victory in a previous contest where Geno Smith threw a TD pass for the Raiders in their only drive. The atmosphere is electric as fans gather to witness last-minute roster cuts and strategic plays from stars like Maxx Crosby and Geno Smith. The Arizona Cardinals are a dominant NFL franchise known for their passionate fanbase and competitive spirit, while the Las Vegas Raiders bring their signature black-and-silver energy and historical rivalry intensity to the field. State Farm Stadium, a premier 70,000-seat venue with a retractable roof and modern amenities, sets the stage for this high-stakes preseason finale.
Arizona Financial Theatre
Dec 21
7:00 PMNUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet
Mortgage Matchup Center
Dec 26
8:00 PMMatt Rife Stay Golden Tour at Mortgage Matchup Center
Matt Rife: Stay Golden World Tour brings the sharp wit and fresh energy of one of comedy’s brightest stars to the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, AZ. Known for his youthful charm and quick comedic timing, Matt Rife continues to solidify his place in stand-up with recent Netflix specials like "Natural Selection" and acclaimed self-produced shows. This event offers fans a chance to experience his signature blend of stand-up and storytelling live in a premier entertainment venue.
Matt Rife's rise from a small-town Ohio teen to a comedy sensation is marked by his roles on MTV's "Wild 'N Out" and appearances on popular TV series including "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" and "Fresh Off the Boat." The Mortgage Matchup Center, formerly known as PHX Arena, is a state-of-the-art arena renowned for hosting major concerts, sports, and comedy acts, making it an ideal spot for this highly anticipated tour stop.
Desert Diamond Arena
Dec 01
7:30 PMRUSH in Glendale: Fifty Something Concert Tickets
RUSH: Fifty Something, an event you won't want to miss, is heading to Desert Diamond Arena! Prepare yourself for an unforgettable evening immersed in captivating sounds and unparalleled instrumental prowess. The performance will feature a dynamic and wide-ranging setlist, drawing from the vast and illustrious career of RUSH. Desert Diamond Arena, a renowned venue for incredible live performances, provides a spacious layout and unobstructed sightlines throughout the arena, guaranteeing a fantastic view for every attendee. The arena's design prioritizes creating an enjoyable and truly memorable concert experience for all. Join a massive crowd of fellow fans as everyone celebrates their favorite RUSH songs!
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Phoenix
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Phoenix From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Small Group & Rock in Phoenix. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Phoenix Activities