Kayak Canyon Lake Reservoir

Canyon Lake is located in a National Recreation Area. It was created by the damming of the Salt River, in Arizona, specifically by the Morman Flat Dam. The lake sits at an elevation of 1,660' and has a mean depth of 130', and an area of 1.484 mi². We launched our kayaks from the boat launch area at the far east end of the lake.

I suggest you take a lunch or at least some hearty snacks with you, since you won't want to hurry on this adventure. We did not and reluctantly had to leave the lake when our hunger pains overpowered our kayaking joys.

From the boat launch, head directly across the main body of water. Once on the other side, you'll find a narrow finger waterway to paddle up.

The canyon walls surround you on either side, filled with Saguaros, Cholla, Beehive, and more cactus plants. We went in February and the hills were lush with greens.

The water is cold, with beautiful reflections of the surrounding ridgelines. There are also some rock outcroppings along the way. Not really any place to dock and go ashore, though.

We spent four hours on the water, doing light action paddling. You can find camping information here.

Getting there: Go south from the greater Phoenix area toward the famous Superstition Mountain and the Lost Dutchman Mine, to State Road 88. Here you will find a narrow and winding paved road that takes you through some incredible scenery. Unfortunately there are power lines that mar the pristine desert landscape.

It is a fairly heavily traveled road - take your time and don't even think about stopping unless there's a turnout! Go to the Canyon Lake Marina and Campground, to pay and park.