Rafter Take-Out and Parking

Rafter Take-Out is a common retrieval point after floating the Salt River Canyon Wilderness. A Tonto National Forest Upper Salt River boater permit is required to float the Salt River Canyon Wilderness from March 1st to May 15th annually. More information on how to obtain this required permit is available here. 

The Diversion Dam Recreation Area located on the Tonto National National Forest includes five primitive areas: Rafter Take-Out, HZ Wash, Diversion Dam and Eucalyptus Access Points, and EADS Wash. Potable water, toilets, and other amenities are not generally available. Be sure to bring adequate water or be prepared to purify any water source before drinking. This area is generally used to get access to the Upper Salt River and mouth of Roosevelt Lake and has exceptionally incredible landscapes. Organ Pipe cactus stand guard against backdrops of rugged mountains.

While the majority of the forest roads in the area are well maintained and used frequently, during snow or heavy rain, a high clearance vehicle may be required. Always use common sense and be prepared.