Outdoor Adventure

Outdoor Adventure Experiences

Located in the Sonoran Desert, Mesa is surrounded by a rich, vibrant and verdant playground for sought-after outdoor recreation. Within minutes from our collection of resorts and hotels, guests can immerse themselves into a legendary landscape. From hiking mountain tops to kayaking along calm rivers and canyon-carved lakes, nearly every outdoor pursuit can be experienced here in the Sonoran Desert.

HIKING & BIKING TOURS – 4+ HOURS

REI Co-op Adventure Center Arizona is one of the few outfitters that lead guided pack trips into the Superstition Wilderness, part of the Tonto National Forest. Single and multi-day hike and bike tours include an in-depth education on the Sonoran Desert. The extensive trails and jagged mountain peaks vary in length and height throughout the Superstition Mountain range. Overnight tours available.

LAKE CRUISES – 1 + HOURS

Hop aboard for a 90-minute narrated tour in air-conditioned comfort and see exotic Arizona wildlife, towering canyon walls, and dramatic desert vistas. The Desert Belle cruises along Saguaro Lake and The Dolly Steamboat, a replica sternwheeler, glides along the cactus-studded shoreline of Canyon Lake. Photo opportunities on this tour are limitless!

KAYAKING THE LOWER SALT RIVER – 2 HOURS

Schedule a guided kayaking tour along the Lower Salt River with your launch point at Saguaro Lake Ranch, or Granite Reef Recreation Area. Both spots offer easy water access. The Salt River can experience Class 3 rapids depending on the time of year. Additional activities include tubing and paddle boarding.

TEE OFF AT 40+ GOLF COURSES

Whether you’re a pro or just learning how to perfect your swing, hit the links in Mesa for some of the best golf in the Southwest. Mesa is home to world-renowned golf featuring breathtaking views of sweeping vistas set against the natural beauty of rugged mountains and blue western skies. And, with near perfect weather it’s possible to enjoy the sport year-round. More than 40 golf courses are within a half-hour drive of downtown offering a variety of options from challenging desert golf to traditional links play.

OUTDOOR BONUS: BIRDING TOURS – 2 HOURS

Birding is a popular sport in Arizona, whose diverse terrain is home to more than 500 species. From hummingbirds and flycatchers to loons, herons and the occasional bald eagle, the treasure hunting in Mesa for birds is endless.