kayaking Saguaro Lake is One of the Best Spots in AZ
Saguaro Lake, located just outside of Mesa, AZ, is one of the best places to go kayaking in the state. The lake provides easy access, free parking and great scenery that will leave you breathless. There are multiple options available when you decide to visit this place, making it perfect for beginners or those with experience in the water. This guide on kayaking Saguaro Lake will tell you everything you need to know about the water body before your trip so that you have the best time while there and can make the most of your time on the water.
Where Is Saguaro Lake?
To get to Saguaro Lake, which is situated on a mesquite-dotted patch of land that stretches alongside Loop 202, take exit #22 off Arizona State Route 101. From there, follow Alta Mesa Boulevard for about four miles until you reach Thompson Road. Turn right onto Thompson and keep driving until you see Saguaro Boulevard (just before East Huntington Drive). Turn left onto Saguaro and you’ll end up at lake’s parking lot. Keep in mind that during busy times (weekends, especially), it may be tough to find parking; if so, consider dropping by on a weekday morning or an evening after 5 p.m., when crowds typically thin out.
How To Get There
You can get to Saguaro Lake by car, by bike or on foot. Because it’s at an elevation about 2,300 feet above sea level, don’t underestimate how good of a workout you’ll get going up and down from its location at Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort. If you drive there, park your car near one of the two picnic areas and head up a short trail from there. Coming from Scottsdale or Fountain Hills, you can also take 101 south and exit Happy Valley Road or Carefree Highway. Take that road east until it dead ends into Thompson Peak Parkway; then go north on Thompson Peak Parkway until it dead ends into Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort Boulevard.
What To Bring When You Go
If you’re planning on kayaking Saguaro Lake, there are some things you should bring with you. A dry bag will come in handy if it starts to rain and don’t forget your sunscreen! After all, Arizona can get really hot during any season. And if you plan on going camping before or after your kayaking trip, a camping stove is a great idea. You might also want to take bug spray and sun hats; especially during warmer months, bugs are pretty common and nothing ruins a day like getting bit by one. Don’t forget water shoes and a towel! The bottom of Saguaro Lake has many sharp rocks and they will ruin your day if you step on them without something between your foot and shoe.
Where To Go At The State Park For Kayaking
When kayaking at Saguaro Lake State Park, you’ll want to spend time on both sides of the lake. The west side features a large peninsula that hosts two lakes: Saguaro and Keystone Lakes. Most visitors are only familiar with Saguaro Lake, as it’s more easily accessible from cars. However, Keystone also features great spots for kayaking, plus an easy-to-launch beach and boat ramp on its west side.
How Much Does A Kayak Cost?
Saguaro Lake has a vast selection of kayaks for rent and can accommodate any skill level. There are touring kayaks, sea kayaks, sit-on-top kayaks, tandem sit-on-top kayaks and paddle boards for you to choose from. The single person sit on top kayak is $20/hour with discounts available if you rent more than 1 hour at a time. They also have double sit on top’s that are $30/hour which accommodate 2 people comfortably. Prices go up slightly depending on what type of boat you prefer so make sure to ask when you arrive.
Tips For Beginners
If you’re ready to get out on Saguaro Lake and don’t know where to start, here are a few pointers for kayaking at Saguaro Lake. First, understand that if you go with a group or by yourself, it’s important that you are with someone who knows what they’re doing. You can call any number of outfitters around Mesa who will teach you how to kayak in a safe environment. Practice makes perfect! No amount of reading will prepare you better than actually being on the water.