The 3 Best Full-Day Tours in Claypool
Claypool is a surprisingly good base for full-day outdoor adventures, especially if you’re into whitewater rafting or just want to soak in Arizona’s rugged beauty. Unlike busier tourist spots, Claypool offers access to the Salt River, a wild stretch that promises excitement and unique scenery. Whether you’re after a high-octane thrill or a scenic float, these tours are designed to give you a full day of fun, with options for different budgets and activity levels. Plus, most include all the gear and transportation, so you can focus on the experience.
If you’re looking to make the most of your time on the water, you’ll find options ranging from a full day of intense rapids to a shorter, adrenaline-packed trip. Many tours feature lunch or snacks, and all are rated highly for their safety and professionalism. Here’s a quick overview of the best full-day rafting experiences in Claypool:
- An all-day adventure with a hearty steak lunch, tackling class III rapids (Salt River Whitewater Rafting — Full Day with Lunch)
- A half-day express trip for those wanting a quick but intense experience (Salt River Whitewater Rafting — Full Day Express Trip)
- An extensive 12-hour journey through class III-IV rapids, with options for a hot lunch or quick snack (Full-Day Salt River Whitewater Rafting Trip)
Below, I’ll break down each of these exciting options, so you can choose the one that fits your adventure style best.
1. Salt River Whitewater Rafting — Full Day with Lunch
At number one, this full-day rafting trip offers about 6 hours on the water, including 10-12 Class III rapids. It’s perfect if you want a comprehensive experience with plenty of action and a delicious steak lunch. The tour begins on the Fort Apache Reservation, where you’ll suit up and receive a safety briefing before hitting the water. The guide will lead you through 10 miles of rapids, with every 5 to 10 minutes bringing a new thrill.
What sets this tour apart is the length of time on the river and the quality of the included lunch. After a couple of hours of paddling, you’ll stop at a designated camp for a hot grilled steak lunch, then continue tackling rapids right up to a grand finale rapid just before the take-out. The scenery of Salt River Canyon, which plunges 2,000 feet deep, adds a dramatic backdrop that’s worth the price tag of $164. Visitors praise the excitement and safety, with many calling it a “full-day adventure” that’s worth every penny.
Bottom Line: This trip is best for those who want a full-day experience, combining thrilling whitewater with a satisfying meal and beautiful canyon views. It’s well-suited for moderate fitness levels, as paddling is active but manageable.
2. Salt River Whitewater Rafting — Full Day Express Trip
For roughly 4 hours of fun, the Express Trip offers a condensed but intense whitewater experience. Priced at just $80, it’s a budget-friendly way to get your adrenaline fix on the Salt River Canyon. This tour covers about 10 miles of rafting through Class II and III rapids, with helmet and wetsuit gear included, making it accessible year-round.
The itinerary is similar to the longer trip, starting on the Fort Apache Reservation with safety instructions and gear fitting. You’ll then paddle through constant rapids, including the biggest rapid near the take-out point for an exciting finish. The trip’s shorter duration makes it ideal if you’re tight on time but still want a full afternoon of whitewater fun.
Reviewers often comment on how fun and “wet” the rapids are, with the Class III rapids soaking everyone from head to toe. This trip is especially good for families or adventure travelers who prefer a shorter, high-energy outing. The main trade-off is missing out on the longer lunch break, but if you’re eager to get back to other plans, this is a solid choice.
Bottom Line: The Express Trip offers great value and is perfect for those looking for a high-energy half-day adventure with all the thrills of the longer trip but in a shorter time frame.
3. Full-Day Salt River Whitewater Rafting Trip
If you’re after a comprehensive, all-day adventure, this 12-hour tour delivers. It covers the upper canyon of the Salt River, famous for its class III and IV rapids. The tour offers two options: one with a hot fajita lunch at midday, and another with a quick snack to keep you moving faster. Either way, you’ll enjoy full-day rafting with an emphasis on challenge and scenery.
This tour is ideal for experienced rafters or adventure-minded travelers eager to push their limits. The guide will instruct you on the best techniques to navigate the energetic rapids, making it suitable for those comfortable with some physical activity. The scenery is stunning, with saguaro forests and hidden canyons, and the multi-day trips offered by the same company extend this experience into wilderness exploration.
With a price of $210, it’s the most expensive but also the most complete experience, especially since it includes transport back to your vehicle. Reviewers mention how challenging and rewarding the trip is, with many describing it as a “trip of a lifetime.” The hot lunch option is particularly popular among those who want a hearty break amid the adrenaline.
Bottom Line: If you’re comfortable with energetic rapids and want a full-day immersive experience with optional food choices, this trip offers exceptional value and adventure.
How to Choose Your Perfect Claypool Rafting Trip
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, fitness level, and time availability. The full-day with lunch offers a balanced mix of thrill and comfort, ideal if you want a comprehensive experience. The express trip is best if you’re short on time but still crave whitewater excitement. For the most challenging and longest adventure, the 12-hour trip is perfect, especially for those who enjoy wilderness scenery and more strenuous rapids.
Make sure to book early, especially during peak seasons, as these tours are popular and tend to fill up quickly. All options include equipment and transportation, but double-check the specific gear and food options to match your preferences.
Final Thoughts
Claypool’s proximity to the Salt River offers a diverse range of full-day outdoor adventures suited for different tastes and skill levels. Whether you prefer a thrilling multi-hour journey or a shorter, high-energy trip, the available tours promise memorable experiences. The full-day with lunch stands out for its mix of excitement and comfort, while the full-day trip with challenging rapids is perfect for adrenaline junkies. For those eager to immerse themselves deeply in nature, the 12-hour adventure provides a rewarding wilderness escape.
Remember, adventure on the Salt River is best enjoyed with a prepared spirit and an adventurous attitude. Booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these top-rated trips. So, pick your favorite, pack your sense of humor, and get ready for an unforgettable day in the Arizona outdoors.