National Rivers, Rivers of Arizona: Overview of Arizona whitewater, Arizona paddling, Arizona canoeing, Arizona kayaking, Arizona rafting, Arizona fly-fishing, Arizona river conservation, Arizona river law, and Arizona river access.

The National Rivers Website, Rivers of Arizona:

Overview of rivers in Arizona

Believe it or not, there is more to river running in Arizona than the Grand Canyon. (You can find information about the Grand Canyon in its own section.) The nature of the desert climate can make water levels unpredictable, and the use of dams and irrigation can suck a river dry, but in the right place at the right time, you can paddle your way into country you might not otherwise see. Canyon country has a long and largely unknown history of human habitation, making it ripe for adventurous (and respectful) exploration.

The Verde River is, for the most part, a fairly easy river. You can choose among sections consisting only of flatwater, or you can work your way up to about class III+, depending on conditions. The spring run-off provides the best time for paddling no matter what challenge you set for yourself.

The Verde flows into the Salt River, much of which has been dammed to form reservoirs to supply the Phoenix area. The Upper Salt, however, lies above these reservoirs and features some strong rapids, plus a portage at Quartzite Falls. The 2,000 foot canyon walls add immense beauty to the whitewater raging through at the foot of the cliffs. Despite its relative isolation from the rest of the world, a well-planned trip with knowledgeable people should leave you with plenty of memorable experiences. Much of this area is controlled by the Apaches, so check on obtaining permits or paying fees before putting in.

The National Rivers Website and the Rivers of Arizona section are made possible by the generosity of the members of the National Organization for Rivers (NORS.) To start or extend your membership, go to NORS Memberships.

NORS was founded in 1978.

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The National Organization for Rivers (NORS)
Membership Offices: 212 West Cheyenne Mountain Blvd.
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
(719) 579-8759. Fax (719) 576-6238.
nationalrivers@email.msn.com

The National Rivers Website is part of Adventure Sports Online.