Arizona's Salt River Tubing Essentials: Don't Float Without Your Sunscreen, Snacks, and Sanity

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As an Arizona transplant, I've floated down the Salt River more times than I've had proper sunburns – and that's saying something! Summer in the desert reaches face-melting temperatures, but there's no better escape than lazily drifting down the cool waters with friends, a cooler, and absolutely zero responsibilities.

The perfect Salt River tubing adventure requires just five essentials: a sturdy tube (rentals available on-site), waterproof sunscreen reapplied hourly, secure water shoes to protect against rocky areas, a floating cooler for hydration, and a waterproof bag for your valuables. Trust me, nothing ruins a relaxing float faster than watching your phone sink to the river bottom like a technological Titanic.

I learned the hard way that preparation matters – my first tubing trip involved forgotten sunscreen, lost flip flops, and a phone that spent the weekend in a bowl of rice. Don't be like rookie me. With temperatures hitting 110°F through summer 2025, proper planning isn't just recommended, it's practically mandatory for survival.

What To Pack For Salt River Tubing

Properly packing for a Salt River tubing adventure can mean the difference between floating in blissful comfort and suffering through a sunburned ordeal. I've made every packing mistake possible over my years of tubing, so learn from my waterlogged wisdom.

Must-Have Tubing Gear

First things first—you need something to float on! I recommend renting tubes from Salt River Tubing or bringing your own heavy-duty river tube. Those flimsy pool toys won't survive the journey (trust me, I've watched many sad souls paddle with their hands after their dollar store tube met a pointy rock).

Don't forget these essentials:

• Sturdy water shoes (flip-flops will abandon you faster than a date who spots their ex)

• Rope or tube connectors to stay linked with friends (nothing kills the vibe like floating alone for two hours)

• Small air pump if bringing your own tube (unless you enjoy passing out before the fun begins)

I always pack a few bungee cords too. They're perfect for securing coolers to tubes or attaching that friend who can't seem to stay upright.

Essential Clothing Choices

Clothing choices for Salt River tubing should balance protection with comfort. I learned the hard way that my favorite cotton shirt becomes a waterlogged torture device about 20 minutes in.

Best clothing options:

• Quick-dry swimwear (obvious, but worth stating)

• Rash guard or athletic shirt that won't chafe

• Old tennis shoes or water shoes (the river bottom feels like nature's LEGO collection)

I avoid wearing jewelry or anything I'd cry about losing to the river gods. The Salt River has claimed more earrings, sunglasses, and smartphones than I care to count.

My personal hack: wear a thin pair of athletic shorts over your swimsuit. They dry quickly and provide an extra layer between your delicate parts and the tube's plastic surface—those seams get HOT!

Sun Protection Smarts

The Arizona sun is less "pleasant warmth" and more "vengeful fire demon" during tubing season. I once skipped sunscreen and returned looking like a partially boiled lobster with distinct tube-shaped tan lines.

Your sun protection arsenal should include:

• Waterproof sunscreen (SPF 50+ and reapply every hour)

• Wide-brimmed hat secured with a chin strap (the river collects hats like I collect bad decisions)

• UV-protective sunglasses with a floating strap

• Lip balm with SPF (chapped lips can ruin the post-tubing margaritas)

I always bring a small spray bottle of aloe vera too. It's refreshing during the trip and a lifesaver afterward when someone inevitably misses a spot with their sunscreen application.

Waterproof Bags and Storage

Nothing ruins a tubing trip faster than watching your phone perform a dramatic slow-motion dive into the depths. I've perfected the art of waterproof storage after several costly lessons.

Storage solutions I swear by:

1. Waterproof phone case with lanyard (wear it around your neck)

2. Dry bag for keys, wallet, and anything that must stay dry

3. Mesh bag for snacks and items that can get wet

I secure my small cooler to my tube with carabiners and bungee cords. It should contain enough water to keep everyone hydrated, plus some for emergency sunscreen rinsing if someone gets it in their eyes (a special kind of river torture).

For snacks, I pack things that won't melt or get soggy—trail mix, jerky, and those little orange cheese crackers that somehow taste better on the water.

Proper preparation prevents pathetically poor tubing performance—trust me on this one. I've learned the hard way that Salt River adventures require more than just grabbing a tube and hoping for the best.

Getting Your Permit (Without Tears)

Let's talk permits—the thrilling bureaucratic hurdle standing between you and aquatic bliss! You'll need a Tonto Pass for your vehicle, which costs around $8 per day. I recommend buying it online beforehand here because nothing says "fun in the sun" like waiting in a hot line at a gas station.

The pass must be displayed on your dashboard, visible through the windshield. Pro tip: Buy an annual pass (Discovery Pass) here if you're planning multiple trips. It's about $80 and saves you both money and the existential dread of wondering if you remembered your permit.

Don't be the person who gets the dreaded orange ticket on their windshield. Forest rangers patrol regularly, and they've heard every excuse in the book!

Checking River Conditions

Before floating face-first into potential disaster, I always check the river conditions. The Salt River flow is measured in cubic feet per second (cfs), and trust me, this number matters more than you think.

Ideal conditions:

• 500-1000 cfs: Perfect for leisurely tubing

• 1000-2000 cfs: Faster ride, more excitement

• Below 400 cfs: Prepare for butt-dragging across rocks

• Above 2000 cfs: Consider postponing unless you enjoy terror

Check the USGS water data website or call Salt River Tubing company at (480) 984-3305 for current conditions. Weather forecasts are your friends too—Arizona monsoons can appear faster than my dignity disappears when I fall out of my tube.

Arranging Transportation and Car Shuttling

The Salt River tubing logistics make airport security look straightforward. You'll need two cars for the classic shuttle method—one at your exit point and one at your entry.

I recommend parking at the exit point first, then carpooling to the starting point. This way, when you emerge from the river—tired, sunburned, and questioning your life choices—your escape vehicle awaits.

If you're not blessed with an abundance of vehicles, Salt River Tubing offers shuttle services. For about $19, they provide the tube and bus transportation between entry and exit points.

Remember: Take a photo of where you parked. After hours on the river, every dirt lot looks identical, and the Arizona heat makes memory optional.

Choosing The Right Tube

Your tubing experience on the Salt River depends heavily on what's beneath your backside. The right tube can mean the difference between a blissful float and an uncomfortable dunk in the water.

Tube Types And Rentals

When it comes to Salt River tubing, not all inflatable circles are created equal. I've learned through painful experience that the $5 bargain bin tube from the gas station might leave you sitting in water rather than on top of it. Most folks opt for rental tubes from Salt River Tubing company, which run about $19-25 including shuttle service.

These tubes are heavy-duty vinyl with a solid bottom, designed to keep your precious rear end above water. I personally recommend the "deluxe" tubes with backrests for an extra few bucks - your spine will thank you after 2-3 hours on the river.

If bringing your own tube, look for:

• Thick, durable vinyl (at least 18-gauge)

• Cup holders (non-negotiable for river relaxation)

• Handles (for those unexpected rapids)

How To Inflate Properly

I've seen far too many sad-looking tubers stranded with deflated tubes. Proper inflation is an art form! Start by making sure your valve is securely closed in the "inflate" position before you begin pumping.

Electric pumps are heaven-sent for river tubing. A good portable pump costs about $15-20 and saves you from passing out before your adventure begins. Don't overinflate! Your tube should be firm but with a slight give when pressed.

Remember that heat expands air - what feels perfect in your air-conditioned car might become a tube-popping disaster in the Arizona sun. I always inflate to about 90% capacity, giving the air room to expand in the heat.

Pro tip: Bring a small hand pump for mid-river adjustments. Nothing ruins a tubing day faster than slowly sinking while watching your friends float merrily away!

Safety Tips For Tubing On The Salt River

Floating down the Salt River can be a blast, but Mother Nature doesn't always play nice with unprepared tubers. I've learned a few hard lessons myself about what can turn a fun day into an emergency room visit.

Staying Hydrated And Avoiding Heatstroke

I cannot stress this enough: Arizona summer heat is no joke! I always pack at least one gallon of water per person. Those cute little water bottles? They're about as useful as a chocolate teapot in the desert heat.

Signs of heatstroke to watch for:

• Confusion or slurred speech (not just from that beer)

• Flushed skin that's hot to touch

• Headache that won't quit

• Nausea or vomiting

I've seen perfectly healthy people transform into delirious zombies within hours. Wear a hat that would make your grandma proud, slather on SPF 50+ sunscreen, and reapply it like you're getting paid to do so.

For extra cooling, I soak a bandana in water and wrap it around my neck. Works like a charm when I feel like I'm being slow-roasted by the sun!

Dealing With River Hazards

The Salt River might look calm and inviting, but it's got some sneaky surprises. I've had close encounters with submerged branches that nearly flipped my tube - not the refreshing dip I was hoping for!

Common hazards to watch for:

1. Submerged rocks and trees

2. Fast-moving rapids in certain sections

3. Sudden depth changes

4. Wildlife (yes, those wild horses are beautiful... from a distance)

I always wear water shoes to protect my feet from sharp rocks and mysterious underwater objects. Trust me, a sliced foot ruins the day faster than a dropped ice cream cone.

When approaching rapids, I sit up in my tube with my butt elevated above potential rocks. No one wants a bruised tailbone souvenir! And remember: if you fall out, float on your back with feet pointed downstream. The river will eventually deliver you to calmer waters or a worried friend.

Alcohol Dos And Don'ts

Let's be real - many folks enjoy a cold one while floating. But there's a fine line between "fun in the sun" and "lost my keys, phone, and dignity somewhere in the river."

Alcohol Dos:

• DO bring plenty of non-alcoholic drinks too

• DO use plastic containers (glass is prohibited)

• DO know your limits (sun + alcohol = bad decisions)

Alcohol Don'ts:

• DON'T drink and drive to/from the river (duh!)

• DON'T get so tipsy you can't swim if needed

• DON'T forget designated drivers need love too (bring their favorite non-alcoholic beverages)

I've witnessed the "six-pack hero" who ended up sunburned to a crisp because they forgot to reapply sunscreen. The river patrol officers aren't impressed by your underwater beer-chugging skills either.

My rule of thumb: for every alcoholic drink, I chug a full bottle of water. My liver, skin, and morning-after self always thank me!

Food And Drinks For A Float-Worthy Feast

Proper sustenance is crucial for an enjoyable Salt River tubing adventure. I've learned through several soggy sandwiches and melted chocolate bars that river-friendly food requires strategic planning.

Best Snacks For The River

Let's face it, floating makes you hungry, but nobody wants a waterlogged PB&J. I recommend packing foods that can withstand heat and occasional splashing. Sturdy wraps with turkey or veggies stay intact better than regular sandwiches.

Pre-cut fruits like watermelon and pineapple serve double duty – they're refreshing snacks AND they help keep you hydrated. Genius, right?

For snacking, I swear by:

• Trail mix (the M&Ms might melt, but that's just part of the adventure)

• Beef jerky (won't spoil in the heat)

• Granola bars (wrapped individually to avoid soggy disasters)

• String cheese (if you have a good cooler)

Avoid anything chocolate-based unless you enjoy drinking your candy bars. Trust me, I've mourned many melted Snickers.

Drinks To Pack And What To Skip

Hydration is no joke on the Salt River. The Arizona sun is basically a supervillain trying to dehydrate you.

I always bring at least 1 liter of water per 2 hours on the river. Those fancy insulated bottles actually work wonders keeping water cold for hours.

For extra points, freeze water bottles the night before. They'll keep your other drinks cool and provide refreshing water as they melt.

What about booze? The Salt River has specific rules:

• Allowed: Beer in cans (no glass!)

• Not allowed: Glass containers of any kind

• Frowned upon: Getting sloppy drunk (the river demands some coordination)

Skip carbonated sodas – they often explode in the heat. And those pouched drinks? They become hot fruit syrup within an hour. Not appetizing!

What To Leave At Home (Unless You Fancy Trouble)

Salt River tubing is all about minimalist fun, folks! I've learned the hard way that some items just don't belong on the river. Trust me, your day will be much better without them.

Glass containers are absolute no-nos. Nothing ruins a relaxing float faster than shattered glass in the water (or worse, in your foot). Stick to cans and plastic bottles that won't turn the riverbed into a hazard zone.

Electronics without waterproof cases? I recommend leaving those precious gadgets in the car. Your iPhone might take great photos, but it takes terrible swims. If you must bring a phone, invest in a quality waterproof pouch or prepare for an expensive paperweight.

Items to avoid bringing:

• Glass bottles or containers

• Valuable jewelry

• Non-waterproof electronics

• Illegal substances

• Styrofoam coolers (they break apart!)

• Your favorite designer swimwear

Single-use plastics deserve a special mention. The Salt River isn't your personal trash can! I've seen too many plastic bags floating alongside the tubers like sad, environmentally-unfriendly ghosts.

Remember that alcohol policies are strictly enforced. While enjoying a cold one is part of many tubers' experience, glass containers and excessive amounts will get you into hot water with rangers (the irony!).

My favorite things to leave behind? My worries and my dignity. The river provides plenty of opportunities for embarrassing moments without bringing extra complications!

Salt River Wildlife Etiquette

Enjoying the Salt River means sharing space with some amazing desert creatures. Respecting wildlife isn't just good manners – it's essential for keeping both animals and tubers safe during your floating adventure.

How To Respect Wild Horses & Friends

The wild horses of Salt River are basically celebrities – but unlike human celebs, they don't want your selfies or autographs. I always maintain at least 50 feet of distance from these majestic creatures. Trust me, that zoom lens on your phone works just fine!

If horses are crossing the river, I wait patiently. Their schedule is more important than my tubing timeline. Besides, watching them cross is like getting a free National Geographic moment.

Wildlife Golden Rules:

• Never feed any animals (even that cute squirrel giving you puppy eyes)

• Keep voices low when animals are nearby

• Don't throw anything at wildlife (yes, people actually do this 🤦)

• Store food securely to avoid attracting unwanted dinner guests

Remember that other wildlife like eagles, coyotes, and javelinas call this place home too. I try to be a good temporary neighbor.

Don't Be A Litterbug

Nothing ruins a pristine river experience faster than floating past someone else's garbage. I always bring a mesh trash bag to collect my wrappers, cans, and other refuse. Pro tip: tie it to your tube with a carabiner!

The Salt River ecosystem is fragile, and that empty chip bag could end up as a deadly snack for wildlife. Anything I bring in, I take out – even apple cores and orange peels. These "natural" items aren't natural to the desert.

Trash Management Tips:

• Bring a dedicated waterproof container for cigarette butts

• Secure loose items that might blow away

• Pack extra bags for friends who "forgot" theirs

• Consider bringing a grabber tool to collect trash you spot along the way

I've found that freezing water bottles not only keeps drinks cold but also prevents that "I need to ditch this now" feeling when they're empty. Being trash-conscious makes me feel superior to litterbugs, and that warm fuzzy feeling lasts longer than my sunburn!

What To Do If Things Go Awry

Even the most carefully planned tubing adventure can hit a few bumps along the Salt River. Preparation for potential mishaps can be the difference between a funny story and a day-ruining disaster.

Handling Lost Tubes And Flip-Flops

I've watched countless flip-flops sail downriver like tiny boats embarking on their own adventures. Pro tip: bring a backup pair of water shoes! They're not just fashion statements—they'll save your feet from the hot concrete at journey's end.

Lost your tube? Don't panic and definitely don't try swimming after it if the current is strong. I always tie my tube to others in my group using a carabiner clip. This creates a floating armada of fun and prevents solo tube escapes.

If your tube deflates (the horror!), flag down a fellow tuber or Salt River employee. The tubing community is surprisingly generous—I once witnessed a family adopt a stranded tuber into their floating party.

First Aid Must-Knows

I never hit the river without my waterproof first aid kit. It's like bringing an umbrella—you only need it when you don't have it!

Basic First Aid Kit Contents:

• Waterproof bandages

• Antiseptic wipes

• Pain relievers

• Aloe vera (for inevitable sunburns)

• Tweezers (for cactus encounters—those jumping cholla are sneaky!)

Dehydration is the sneakiest villain on the Salt River. I always bring twice as much water as I think I'll need. One bottle to drink, one to pour over my head when I'm melting like an ice cream cone in July.

For emergency situations, know that cell service is spotty. I've marked my map with the location of emergency phones along the route. Rangers patrol regularly, but they can't be everywhere at once.

Post-Tubing Cleanup And Celebrations

After hours of floating down the Salt River, I always look like a drowned rat with a sunburn. It's time to transform from river creature back to human being. First things first: a proper shake-off to avoid turning my car into a mobile swimming pool.

Pro tip: Bring baby powder to help get sand off your feet. I learned this the hard way after once finding Salt River sand in my car three months after tubing!

Those rental tubes need to be returned, unless you plan on creating the world's most uncomfortable living room furniture. Don't be that person who "accidentally" takes one home - the tube karma will come back to haunt you.

Changing into dry clothes is an art form I've yet to master. I typically end up hopping around on one foot behind a towel while accidentally mooning half the parking lot. Maybe next time I'll spring for one of those pop-up changing tents.

Once everyone's presentable, the post-tubing festivities can begin! Here are my favorite celebration spots:

• Tortilla Flat: For that authentic Arizona saloon experience

• Saguaro Lake Ranch: Relaxed atmosphere with great views

• Mesa restaurants: When you need air conditioning ASAP

Nothing beats the post-tubing hunger. I swear floating makes me ravenous! Those gas station chips I pack never survive more than five minutes after exiting the river.

Remember to hydrate with something besides beer. The Arizona sun plus alcohol equals tomorrow's regrettable headache. I always bring a huge jug of water for the recovery phase.