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Welcome To Saguaro Lake Marina
Saguaro Lake was formed by the Stewart Mountain Dam, which was completed in 1930. It was the last of the reservoirs to be built on the Salt River. The lake is named for the Saguaro Cactus, which stand majestically in the surrounding desert landscape. Saguaro Lake has more than 22 miles of shoreline, creating a great environment for boating, kayaking, sailing, skiing, jet skiing, fishing and camping. The Saguaro del Norte Recreation site is near the dam and includes Saguaro Lake Marina, which includes a restaurant and boat concession, a Maricopa County Sheriff's aid station, picnic tables, restrooms and boat ramps. Butcher Jones Beach, which can be reached by a road a few miles north of Saguaro del Norte, features swimming, picnic and restroom facilities.
Saguaro Lake is located within the Tonto National Forest just 20 minutes from Mesa, Arizona. Click here for directions and maps of Saguaro Lake and the area. There is so much to do at Saguaro Lake! Rent a pontoon boat, or take a relaxing Desert Belle tour boat ride around the lake, then eat at the ShipRock Restaurant . Saguaro Lake is great fun for everyone!
SAGUARO LAKE
Saguaro Lake, twenty minutes from Fountain Hills, is one of the loveliest and most popular recreation sites in Tonto National Forest. The golden cliffs and rugged shoreline of Saguaro Lake make a spectacular setting for outdoor activities.
One wonderfully relaxing way to enjoy the lake is a narrated tour aboard the Desert Belle Paddlewheel Riverboat. Bald eagles and desert mountain sheep are often spotted in secluded regions.
At the Lakeshore Restaurant, diners have splendid views from indoors or outdoors. Boat rentals can be arranged at Precision Marine, which also carries bait, tackle and marine supplies.
Boat ramps, fishing pavilions, swimming, picnic tables and restroom facilities are available at two locations. At Butcher Jones Beach, the Shoreline Trail links panoramic vantage points. Horseback riders also have spectacular views of the lake. Horseback riding, kayak and tube rentals are offered at Saguaro Lake Ranch, below the dam.
Desert Belle
Originally launched in 1964, the Desert Belle has been plowing the waters of Saguaro Lake for over forty years. Relax in air-conditioned comfort on one of her 90 minute narrated public cruises and see exotic Arizona wildlife, towering canyon walls, and dramatic desert vistas.
Private cruises are also available for an unforgettable wedding, birthday, anniversary, or office party. Whatever you choose, The Desert Belle is a unique way to enjoy all the beauty that Arizona has to offer.
This relaxing, narrated cruise is entertaining as well educational for nature lovers of all ages!
- Cruises, Sailing & Water Tours
- Day Cruises
Saguaro Lake Sunset Cruise with Live Music
- Sunset cruise on Saguaro Lake
- Board a restored 1964 ship, the 'Desert Belle'
- Cruise through the Tonto National Forest taking in sights
- Listen to live music played by local Arizona bands
- Keep an eye out for coyotes, bobcats, cacti, and prickly pear plants
- Choose between three departure times to fit your schedule
- Upgrade for priority boarding with popcorn and a drink
Inclusions & Exclusions
- 90-minute sightseeing cruise
- Boarding begins approximately a half before departure time.Â
- Gratuities (optional)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and beverages (unless otherwise specified)
Departure & Return
Saguaro Lake
What To Expect
Meet for your sunset cruise at the Saguaro Lake Marina a little before your departure time. This cruise if offered at three times during the day, so you can find a time that fits best with your plans.Once you're at the marina, board the Desert Belle, a 1964 cruise ship that's been restored beautifully. You can decide to sit inside the cabin in the air conditioning or go outside to the deck. If you've chosen to upgrade to priority seating, you'll board first and be one of the first cruisegoers to pick your seat. With the upgrade, you'll also get a free drink and popcorn. If you'd to purchase a drink, you can also do so onboard. Your cruise takes off just before sunset on Saguaro Lake. The lake gets its name from the type of cacti that surround the area. As you cruise, enjoy the views, and watch out for cacti, prickly pear plants, coyotes, bighorn sheep, and bobcats. Make sure to bring a camera because the desert is truly worth capturing on screen.Onboard there is also live music being performed by musicians from Arizona. Listen to the music as the sun sets over the lake, and your cruise continues.Afterward, the Desert Belle docks back in the lake's marina, and the rest of the night's plans are in your hands.
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 1 day of travel. In this case confirmation will be received as soon as possible, subject to availability
- Check-in begins approximately 45 minutes before cruise departure. Boarding is approximately a half hour before departure.
- Wheelchair accessible
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel At least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
Your Contact Details
Questions or requests.
Do you have questions or specific requests regarding this tour?
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