Saguaro Lake Guide

Boat rentals, Butcher Jones Trail, and where to buy your Tonto Pass.

$8/day at vendors, $12 on-site
Annual passes accepted, watercraft +$4
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About Saguaro Lake

A reservoir in Tonto National Forest, ~40 miles northeast of Phoenix off Hwy 87. Blue water, desert mountains, and saguaro on the hillsides. ~1,264 acres, 22 miles of shoreline, ~116 feet deep.

Butcher Jones Beach is the main day-use area and where the Butcher Jones Trail starts. The marina on Bush Highway rents boats if you don't have your own.

Spring and fall are the sweet spot. Summer weekends fill up fast, so get there early.

Things to Do

Boating

Pontoon, fishing, and ski boat rentals at the marina on Bush Highway. Bring your own kayak or paddleboard, or rent from local outfitters.

Cruises

Narrated sightseeing cruises through the lake's canyon passages, about 80 minutes. Live music cruises on weekends. Check schedule for seasonal availability.

Dining

Waterfront restaurant at the marina with canyon views and casual food. The only place to eat on the lake, so plan accordingly.

Wildlife

Salt River wild horses are sometimes spotted along the water, though most bands have moved to the lower Salt River. Bald eagles are common in winter.

Trails

Moderate

Butcher Jones Trail

Tonto NF · Butcher Jones Beach day-use area

AllTrails

A scenic shoreline hike with sweeping views of the lake and Superstition Mountains. Trailhead is at the Butcher Jones day-use area. A Tonto Pass is required to park.

5.8 mi out & back639 ft elevation

Access Points

Pass required

Butcher Jones

Main beach and day-use area. Fills early on summer weekends.

Directions
Pass required

Saguaro del Norte

North shore day-use area and boat launch. Quieter alternative.

Directions
Private concession

Saguaro Lake Marina

Boat rentals, restaurant, store on Bush Highway.

Directions

Buy a Pass Before You Go

Pick one up at a gas station or convenience store on your way. Save $4 vs. on-site machines.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Arrive by 8am on summer weekends. The lake fills to capacity and turns vehicles away.
  • Cell service is limited near the lake. Download offline maps before you go.
  • No glass containers allowed at any recreation area. Bring cans or plastic.
  • Salt River wild horses are occasionally spotted near the water. Most bands now live along the lower Salt River.
  • Boat rentals and sightseeing cruises operate from the marina. A Tonto Pass covers day-use parking areas. Marina parking policies may differ.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Tonto Pass at Saguaro Lake?
Yes. A Tonto Pass is required to park at all Saguaro Lake day-use areas, including Butcher Jones Beach and Saguaro Del Norte. On-site fee machines charge $12/day; buying from a vendor beforehand costs $8.
Where can I buy a Tonto Pass near Saguaro Lake?
The closest vendors are in Fountain Hills (~14 miles away) and Mesa (~25 miles). Gas stations and convenience stores in both cities sell the $8 daily pass. Buy before you arrive. On-site machines cost more.
How much does a Tonto Pass cost at Saguaro Lake?
A daily Tonto Pass costs $8 at authorized vendors or $12 at on-site fee machines. The annual Tonto Discovery Pass ($80) is also accepted. The America the Beautiful Pass ($80) covers picnic sites only.
Is there a restaurant at Saguaro Lake?
Yes. There is a restaurant at the marina on Bush Highway with waterfront views. It is the only place to eat on the lake.
Can you kayak on Saguaro Lake?
Yes. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available at the marina. You can also bring your own and launch from the marina boat ramp or the shoreline at Butcher Jones Beach.

View Official Saguaro Lake Information

Fees, hours, current conditions, and site maps from the U.S. Forest Service.

Visit fs.usda.gov