Salt River Granite Reef Recreation Area

Phenomenal the way mount mcdowell aka red mountain always looks different.
Salt river granite reef recreation area. The last mile or so of calm water approaching granite reef diversion dam features enough water to paddle year round though it s more lake like in that stretch. Less than 1 2 mile 0 80 km from the national forest boundary the granite reef diversion dam diverts all remaining water in the salt river into the arizona canal and southern canal which deliver drinking and irrigation water to much of the phoenix metropolitan area. I also hiked some trails on the sonoran desert trail system. Non motorized boats such as kayaks do not require the additional watercraft tag.
Always a chance you ll see some of the many lower salt river wild horses. The dam and canals are part of the salt river project. The verde river joins the salt river near the phon d sutton recreation area often adding enough water to allow for a run downstream. If there was a birding wonderland in maricopa county that title would go the granite reef recreation site the granite reef recreation site is the first stop if coming northbound to the salt river on the bush highway.
Sitting next to the lower salt river granite reef offers the ability to launch non motorized boats along with shoreline fishing. It is one of the very best spots to bird in maricopa county easily the best at the salt river where one may have an excellent bird list during any visit. This riparian area is an outstanding terrestrial bird watching. Remember you re on their turf.
Kayaking around the granite reef recreational area is an alternative adventure when water levels are low. 6 reviews of granite reef recreation site this riparian area is an outstanding terrestrial bird watching biome. 6 reviews 602 225 5200. To park your shuttle vehicles you will need a tonto pass link in permit section on this page.
Mallards great blue heron ring necked duck but just a few of the177 species known to visit. Spectacular views of the lower salt river tributary and red mountain. Granite reef recreation site 2 99 n bush hwy mesa az 85206. Because of its close proximity to a major city granite reef is very popular.
The salt river provides a unique desert adventure all seasons of the year. Mile 12 0 permit and regulations the lower salt river is a designated recreation area in the tonto national forest. This riparian area is outstanding for bird watching for warblers shore birds and spring and fall migratory fowl. Granite reef rec site.
Salt river granite reef recreation area.