SUNSEEKERS FLOCK TO EXPERIENCE ARIZONA'S FLOATING PICNIC, BEACH PARTY FUN ZONE
Mesa's waterways are part of the Tonto National Forest and visitors can enjoy all the pleasures of a beach-inspired retreat at Butcher Jones Beach at Saguaro Lake. The sandy shoreline offers convenient parking and walk-up access making it an ideal stop for a picnic or afternoon dip in the lake. Views of the majestic canyon walls are prevalent here and the beachfront is also a popular area for swimming, floating and catching some rays. Kayakers in particular appreciate the convenient water entrance and exit that only a beach can provide. Saguaro Lake itself offers more than 22 miles of shoreline and ranch-style lodging and day use areas. Perhaps the most popular way to stay cool in the desert is tubing down the Salt River. Known locally as a floating Arizona picnic, tubers flock to the cool, mountain-stream waters and get creative with floating coolers, sound systems and more. The beach party-like atmosphere is a great way to spend the day soaking up the summer sun. Early risers will want to watch for wildlife found on the riverbanks including mountain goats, wild horses and blue herons.

STAND UP PADDLEBOARD YOGA AND MORE WATER FUN IN STORE THIS SUMMER
Arizona's mighty, ever-flowing Colorado River and its many tributaries have carved out an incredible water recreation paradise in the Southwest. For visitors to Mesa, there are two rivers that converge just north of the city's border as well as a connection of lakes that allow for every water sport imaginable in the summer. Yoga lovers can practice their flow and test their skills on a stand up paddle board. No Snow SUP offers weekly yoga sessions on both the Lower Salt River and nearby Canyon Lake during the summer months through October. The 60-minute guided classes promise a unique balancing act, all set to the motion of the lake's rolling tide. Desert Paddleboards offers SUP yoga as well with a series of class options available at Mesa's Skyline Aquatic Center. Those new to the sport of SUP and not ready for yoga can take their time during the “BYOB+B” happy hour float sessions offered every Friday by No Snow. The festive group paddle takes place at sunset along the cool waters of the river where visitors are surrounded by majestic canyon walls. Paddle boards are available for rent at the board shop.

GO CRUISING ON AN ARIZONA LAKE TOUR
Mesa visitors can also go cruising on the Dolly Steamboat, a replica Mark Twain era sternwheeler takes you back to a simpler time. Weathered canyon walls reflect sunshine from waterways accessible only by boat. Blue herons, bald eagles, turkey vultures and desert bighorn sheep are some of the wildlife you will see around the lake. On the Desert Belle, visitors can tour Mesa's nearby Saguaro Lake and enjoy entertainment and special events on the water. Narration tours highlight both Arizona's geography and history, while other themed tours include wine tasting, live music and more.

Learn about these and other water-filled adventures at Visit Mesa's Booth #2818 and at IPW Media Marketplace Table #37. www.VisitMesa.com

VISIT MESA ARIZONA MEDIA CONTACT:

Michelle Streeter, Vice President of Communications

Direct: 480-682-3638  E-mail: Michelle@VisitMesa.com

https://www.visitmesa.com/media-center/