Canyon Lake Kayaking Report   by Norma Miller

Canyon Lake is about 120 miles northwest of Tucson, just northeast of Apache Junction and located between the Four Peaks Wilderness and the Superstition Wilderness. It's the second in a series of reservoirs on the Salt River north of the Phoenix area and, in my opinion, is the more beautiful and narrow high-walled canyon lake of the series with a variety of desert and canyon environments, lots of waterfowl, wildlife and interesting landforms. By kayak one can easily get away up river from the main stream of power boaters around the marina. Launching from the Acacia Picnic Area is easy and avoids the marina traffic if there for the day.  For more extended trips one can launch and park at the secure marina parking lot for a small fee.

 

(Click images to enlarge)

 

Canyon Lake map.

 

 

Nearing the nice beaches at the Acacia picnic area.

 

 

        

Entering the main canyon channel.

 

        

Springtime in the canyon brings color and waterfalls.

 

       

High cliff walls and secluded side canyons make for an interesting paddle.

 

       

Desert Big Horn sheep are a regular sight.

 

       

Great Blue Herons and many other waterfowl and bird species are seen on and off the water (in camp).

 

        

A slot canyon just below Skull Cove gives access to this vast inner canyon and miles of wilderness hiking.

 

       

The large, maintained boat-in camp site is three miles up river and comes with great views.