Claypool’s 6 Best Tours & Things To Do

Claypool offers a surprising variety of outdoor adventures and quirky experiences, making it an excellent base for exploring the Tonto National Forest and the Salt River region. Whether you’re after an adrenaline rush, a scenic hike, or a ghostly encounter, Claypool’s unique location and diverse activities deliver.

Of particular note is the Full-Day Salt River Whitewater Rafting Trip — a top-rated adventure that combines exhilarating rapids with the chance to enjoy Arizona’s wild river scenery.

Plus, quirky ghost tours and off-road adventures add a fun twist for travelers looking for variety. This list breaks down the most exciting options, helping you choose the best fit for your interests and schedule.

Quick Overview

In this guide, you’ll find two whitewater rafting experiences—one full-day and one half-day—catering to different comfort levels and time constraints.

There’s also a ghost tour at the historic 1910 Jail, perfect for those interested in local legends, along with off-road and hiking trips through the stunning Moon Canyon and Regal Canyon. Whether you’re seeking thrills, history, or scenic exploration, Claypool has a lot to offer.

1. Full-Day Salt River Whitewater Rafting Trip

At number one, the Full-Day Salt River Whitewater Rafting Trip offers a full day of high-energy fun, perfect for adventure seekers. Costing $210 per person, this 12-hour journey takes you through the pristine upper canyon of the Salt River as you tackle class III and IV rapids.

The trip is led by experienced guides who are committed to safety and fun, making it suitable even if you’re new to whitewater rafting.

What makes this tour stand out is the choice between a “standard” trip with a hot fajita lunch, or a “sprint” version with a snack, allowing you to tailor your day to your energy level and schedule. The tour includes all necessary equipment, detailed instruction, and transportation back to your car, easing logistics for travelers.

Expect to see saguaro forests, hidden canyons, and vibrant desert blooms, all setting a dramatic backdrop for your adventure.

Guests consistently praise the trip for its challenge and breathtaking landscapes. As one reviewer states, “It was challenging but the views of nature were incredible. I’d do it again.” The full-day option is ideal for those who want a comprehensive experience and are ready to conquer some rapids.

Bottom Line: This tour balances excitement with comfort, making it perfect for thrill-seekers who want a full day of rafting, scenery, and a hearty meal.

2. Half-Day Salt River Raft Trip

If your schedule is tighter or you prefer a gentler introduction to whitewater, the Half-Day Salt River Raft Trip is an excellent choice. At $178.20, and lasting about 3 hours, it’s ideal for families or first-timers. This beginner-friendly trip guides you through milder stretches of the Salt River Canyon, with all equipment and safety instruction included.

The trip’s highlight is its easy pace, making it stress-free and accessible for kids or travelers wary of the more intense rapids. It offers a taste of Arizona’s river wilderness without requiring a full-day commitment. Many reviews emphasize the caring guides and the fun, relaxed atmosphere, with one saying, “Lukas was so knowledgeable and kind. We had a wonderful time.”

While shorter, this tour still offers a memorable experience of Arizona’s dramatic river scenery. It’s suitable for those who want to try rafting without the full-day commitment or are traveling with kids.

Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners or time-constrained visitors, this half-day trip delivers a solid taste of whitewater fun in a relaxed format.

3. 1910 Haunted Jail Ghost Tours

For something entirely different, the 1910 Haunted Jail Ghost Tours bring you into one of Arizona’s most haunted sites. Priced at $24.95, the 1.5-hour tour explores the eerie history of the old Globe jail, built on the site of the original gallows.

You’ll hear stories of former inmates, murders, and suicides, and even participate in paranormal investigations, including EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomena) sessions and spirit box readings.

This tour is perfect for history buffs and fans of the supernatural. Guides share the tragedies and ghost stories that linger within the jail’s walls, providing a spooky but fascinating glimpse into the area’s past. While there are no reviews yet, the chance to see evidence of paranormal activity in such a historic setting makes it a compelling option for a night out.

The tour’s intimate setting and chilling tales make it ideal for those interested in Arizona’s ghostly side. It’s a shorter, budget-friendly activity that can be combined with other daytime adventures.

Bottom Line: A unique look into Arizona’s haunted history, suited for those interested in the supernatural and local legends.

4. Moon Canyon Off-Road and Hiking Adventure from Chrysotile

At number four, the Moon Canyon Off-Road and Hiking Adventure combines a rugged off-road ride with an engaging hike in Tonto National Forest. Priced at $125 per person and lasting about 3-4 hours, this tour takes you into desert scenery, Ash Creek Canyon, and the otherworldly Moon Canyon.

After a short safety briefing, you’ll hop into off-road vehicles for a 30-minute ride through the forested foothills to a private meadow along Ash Creek. From there, you’ll hike along a trail filled with rocks and roots, crossing over a small dam and navigating boulders into Moon Canyon, which is known for its strange, lunar-like terrain.

Guide comments highlight the chance to see wild animals such as javelina, snakes, and birds, along with abundant desert flora. The hike is physically accessible but involves some climbing and obstacle navigation, making it suitable for active travelers with a love for nature.

Guests can expect breathtaking views and memorable photo opportunities. While no reviews are posted yet, the mix of off-road excitement and scenic hiking makes this tour a well-rounded outdoor experience.

Bottom Line: Best for those who want an active day with a blend of off-road driving and adventure-filled hiking amid stunning desert landscapes.

5. 3 Hours Regal Canyon Off Road Adventure in Chrysotile

For a shorter, more focused off-road experience, the Regal Canyon Off Road Adventure is a solid pick. At $150 per person for about 3 hours, this tour explores high ridges and mountain passes in Tonto National Forest. It begins with a safety briefing before heading out on a mostly dirt trail.

This trip emphasizes spectacular mountain and canyon views, including the Salt River and Regal Canyon, along with the chance to see local wildlife like cows and javelina.

The ride along the mountain ridgeline offers panoramic vistas, especially over the Salt River Canyon, which is renowned for its dramatic scenery. The tour also passes through a large cattle ranch, adding a dash of local history and ranch life.

Ideal for travelers who want a shorter but intense off-road experience, this tour provides plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy Arizona’s rugged landscape.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a half-day adventure that combines scenic views with off-road excitement—great for those pressed for time but seeking a full dose of wilderness.

6. Salt River Canyon Off-Roading Adventure Tour

Finally, the Salt River Canyon Off-Roading Adventure Tour offers a 3-hour exploration of the untouched wilderness of Ash Creek Canyon. Starting with a safety talk, you’ll drive through high plains desert, mountain passes, and old mining sites, all with spectacular views of the Salt River Canyon.

This tour includes a stop at an old mining facility overlooking the canyon, where you can take photos and learn about local mining history, and a drive past Ceneec Lake with its abandoned resort. The off-road ride takes you into the most natural, untouched parts of the region, often spotting wildlife such as snakes, birds, and cattle.

Ideal for travelers interested in nature, geology, and remote landscapes, this trip emphasizes the rugged beauty of Arizona’s wilderness. The tour ends with a scenic drive back through the canyon and high plains.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want an immersive off-road experience combined with historical insights and incredible canyon vistas.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When deciding between these diverse options, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you crave full-day adventure and thrill, the Full-Day Salt River Rafting Trip offers excellent value, especially if you enjoy challenging rapids. For a gentler introduction, the Half-Day Salt River Trip is perfect.

If you love history and ghost stories, the Haunted Jail Ghost Tour provides spooky entertainment. For those looking for scenic outdoor exploration, either the Moon Canyon Off-Road and Hiking Adventure or the Regal Canyon Off Road Adventure will satisfy your craving for mountain vistas and desert landscapes.

Booking early is advisable, especially for popular activities like rafting, which often fill up during peak seasons. Also, check the timing of your visit—outdoor tours are best in cooler months from fall to early spring, when desert heat is less intense.

Final thoughts

Claypool offers a surprising variety of adventure, history, and outdoor fun. For those craving adrenaline, the full-day rafting trip tops the list. If you’re into off-road exploration and scenic hikes, the Moon Canyon or Regal Canyon trips are compelling choices.

History buffs will appreciate the eerie tales at the haunted jail, while curious travelers can enjoy the thrill of exploring Arizona’s wild, untouched landscapes.

No matter your preference, these tours give you a great way to learn about the rugged beauty of the region. Be sure to book early, pack appropriate gear, and get ready for memorable experiences in Claypool.