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Saguaro Lake Guide
Boat rentals, Butcher Jones Trail, and where to buy your Tonto Pass.
- $8/day Tonto Pass required at all day-use areas
- $12 on-site · annual passes accepted, watercraft +$4
Buy a Pass Before You Go
Every Saguaro Lake day-use area requires a Tonto Pass: Butcher Jones Beach and Saguaro del Norte. Buy the $8 day pass in Fountain Hills or Mesa; the $80 annual pass and America the Beautiful also work.
Pick one up at a gas station or convenience store on your way.
From Phoenix & Scottsdale
via Beeline Hwy (AZ-87) through Fountain Hills
Circle K #666417125 E. Shea Blvd., Fountain Hills11 mi from Saguaro Lake
From East Valley
Mesa, Gilbert & Chandler via Power Rd
Bashas' #732864 N. Power Rd., Mesa12 mi from Saguaro Lake
Big 5 Sporting Goods #2702930 N. Power Rd., Mesa11 mi from Saguaro Lake
Things to Do
Boat rentals, sightseeing cruises, and a waterfront restaurant — all at the marina on Bush Highway.
BoatingPontoon, fishing, and ski boat rentals at the marina on Bush Highway. Bring your own kayak or paddleboard, or rent from local outfitters.
CruisesNarrated sightseeing cruises through the lake's canyon passages, about 80 minutes. Live music cruises on weekends. Check schedule for seasonal availability.
DiningWaterfront restaurant at the marina with canyon views and casual food. The only place to eat on the lake, so plan accordingly.
WildlifeSalt 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.
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.
Trails
Moderate
AllTrailsButcher Jones Trail
Tonto NF · Butcher Jones Beach day-use area
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
Saguaro del Norte
North shore day-use area and boat launch. Quieter alternative.
DirectionsTips 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 you need a Tonto Pass for 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.
Find a Tonto Pass Vendor Near You
Buy before you head out. $8/day required at all Saguaro Lake day-use areas.