This short run along Tonto Creek is a thrilling trip through scenic and classic Arizona desert and a narrow canyon. The first part of the trip is a short run along Rye Creek which leads to a confluence with Tonto Creek. Shortly after the confluence of the two creeks is the first major rapid, Rye Creek Rapid, which is a class III rapid at ideal flows but can be upgraded to class V when flows are exceptionally high. As the river enters the gorge there are multiple class III rapids and holes that will keep paddlers on their toes. There is one spot of the canyon that narrows down to 12-feet but is passible and less-threatening than it may appear. The remainder of the trip after leaving the canyon is relatively mild consisting of mostly class I to II rapids.

Typically permitted, visit USFS site first. Always FUN.

Located just off the scenic Apache Trail in central Arizona, this long narrow lake offers miles of shoreline for paddling with many side coves and bays that provide nice waters for paddling. The lake is more remote and less crowded than the other Salt River reservoirs but still offers great scenery and opportunity for recreation. Amenities at the lake include a marina, picnic sites, campgrounds, and multiple boat launches.

The Schoolhouse Point launch is located on the eastern portion of Roosevelt Lake and is a good launch site for the lake as well as a river access point for the Upper Salt River. Roosevelt Lake is the largest lake located in Central Arizona on the Salt River Project. The lake offers open waters for paddling as well as lots of small coves and canyons that can offer more solitude and opportunity for viewing wildlife. The lake is popular with speedboats and motorboats so be cautious when entering and crossing open waters.

The Cholla Recreation Site is located 6 miles north of the dam on the southwest portion of Roosevelt Lake. Roosevelt Lake is the largest lake located in Central Arizona on the Salt River Project. The lake offers open waters for paddling as well as lots of small coves and canyons that can offer solitude and opportunity for viewing wildlife. The lake is popular with speedboats and motorboats so be cautious when entering and crossing open waters. The site offers a boat launch, picnic areas, and campgrounds.