As the temperatures start to creep up to the triple digit range, Arizonans turn their attention to ways to stay cool all summer and still have fun. For those of you who can’t escape to the high country to wait out the heat, another great option is heading to one of many lakes in Arizona. Surprisingly, many of those lakes are right in our own backyard; an easy drive to a summer full of water fun. Here’s how to enjoy some of the Valley’s best lakes (and rivers!) all summer long.
Saguaro Lake Near Mesa
It’s amazing how many things there are to do in this recreation area. Saguaro Lake is located within the Tonto National Forest and is just 20 minutes from Mesa, Arizona. If you’re a boat owner, this is the lake for you! There are slips available for day use or dry storage. They also offer a fuel dock, pump out facilities, and there’s an onsite store for those last-minute supplies you already forget to bring. Not a boat owner? That’s OK! Precision Marine right at the lake offers rentals on runabouts, fishing, or pontoon boats. If you live in one of the nearby Mesa neighborhoods, this is a great way to spend the day with family and friends. If you prefer to leave the boat driving to someone else, you can check out the Desert Belle, which offers a relaxing, narrated boat ride around the lake. Keep your eyes peeled for eagles, and a lot of other wild life. Finish up with a nice meal at the Lakeshore restaurant.
Saguaro Lake Ranch
The name says “lake” but this is all about the kayaking! There is no better way to enjoy the cool water, escape the summer heat, and check out the beautiful scenery than to go kayaking on the Lower Salt River! As you float down the Salt River you could see wild horses, deer, great blue herons, osprey, bald eagles, and other native wildlife. You can rent kayaks at Saguaro Lake Ranch, or bring your own kayak and launch from their beach (check out their rates for all the details on options).
Salt River Tubing
You can’t call yourself an Arizonan without checking out Salt River Tubing. People from all over the Valley make the trip to Salt River Tubing to go down a lazy river with their fellow sun bathers. It’s a party on the water, but one you’ll never forget. Renting a tube includes an exciting bus ride to and from the river. If floating isn’t your thing, join the people on shore who set up camp for the day just to watch the people float by.
Lake Pleasant
Lake Pleasant Regional Park is a large outdoors recreation area straddling the Maricopa and Yavapai county border northwest of Phoenix. If you live in one of the beautiful Anthem neighborhoods, Lake Pleasant Regional Park is about a 20-minute drive from your home. Check out Pleasant Harbor Marina to store or rent a boat; it’s a full-service marina with many services and amenities offered. Don’t forget, they have a restaurant, a bar, as store and concierge service. Take advantage of this beautiful facility right in your own neighborhood!
Kiwanis Lake
There’s a lake smack in the middle of Tempe that you can kayak on all summer long. Kiwanis Lake is located in Kiwanis Community Park in central Tempe, southwest of Baseline Road and Mill Avenue. You can rent single kayaks, double kayaks or even paddle boats for those less daring (or those who prefer to paddle with their feet). Swimming and wading are not permitted, but they have lots of water options or you can even stay on land and rent a surrey, double surrey, cruiser bike or tandem bike. Even if you don’t get in the water, it’s cooler by the lake and a great way to enjoy the lake without getting wet.
Surprise Lake
Another great spot for those who prefer to stay on land, as it offers some great opportunities to fish. A part of the Surprise Community Park, visitors can fish to their heart’s content (look for posted fishing rules), where you can catch catfish, sunfish, trout, bass, and even white amur. There’s also a playground, dog park and swimming pool nearby to enjoy during a hot summer day.
Are you looking for a new home in Surprise or one of the other neighborhoods mentioned in this article? Give us a call at 623-206-9936. We’ll help you house hunt and find a property which best suits your wants and needs.