The Call to Adventure:

Our adventure was expertly organized by Beth at the Gainey Village Health Club and facilitated by the experienced team at Mild to Wild Rafting. The Upper Salt River Canyon, set on the Apache Indian Reservation, provides a stunning backdrop for our rafting journey, with the lands of the White Mountain and San Carlos Apache Tribes rising on either side.

The River Runs High:

Thanks to a generous season of snow and rain in Arizona, the river was flowing at an invigorating 5,000 cubic feet per second during our trip—significantly above the ideal flow rate. This meant bigger rapids, more exciting challenges, and an unforgettable experience. Our paddle-only raft, navigated by our adept guide Wade, required constant teamwork and alertness to avoid the ‘big holes’—dangerous spots that could flip our raft.

Midway Marvels:

Halfway through our 10-mile journey, we paused for a well-deserved lunch on the riverbanks, surrounded by the natural beauty of the canyon. This break gave us a moment to relax, refuel, and prepare for the second leg of our adventure, where the rapids grew even more challenging.

Reflections on the River:

As we navigated the final stretches of the river, I couldn’t help but appreciate the blend of adrenaline and peace that river rafting offers. Sharing this adventure with my daughters and new friends from the club made the experience even more meaningful. It was not just about conquering the rapids, but about strengthening bonds and making memories in the heart of nature.

Conclusion:

Our day on the Upper Salt River was a reminder of the adventures that lie in our own backyards and the joys of exploring them with loved ones. For anyone craving a mix of adventure and scenic beauty, rafting the Upper Salt River is a must-try.

Subscribe and Follow:

For more thrilling content like this and to see all the action from our Upper Salt River rafting trip, don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow our adventures on Facebook!