As part of an Apache Trail tour with Arizona Scenic Tours, I finally, finally went on the Dolly Steamboat Canyon Lake cruise. I had put the cruise off as something to do in my more "golden years," but since it was part of our all-day excursion, I found myself boarding the boat at noon as soft winds cooled us.
I had no idea what to expect on the cruise. I had envisioned that we might circle the lake. That's what kept me from going before. It, frankly, sounded a little too laid back.
As we headed out on the lake I realized that we were in for a real treat. Canyon Lake is an amazing place right in the middle of the Superstition Mountains. The lake is bound by 28 miles of cactus-studded shoreline with small water-filled rocky canyons to explore.
The day I went on the excursion, cumulous-nimbus clouds were building, hawks and vultures were circling, and the boat took us close to the massive canyon walls to look at embedded petrified wood. This was as much fun as a nature hike!
Sometimes you'll see big-horned sheep or javelina from the decks of the boat. I was happy with seeing and photographing the glorious scenery. I noticed that even younger passengers got excited as we turned in to coves and canyons and were eagerly snapping pictures.
About Dolly Steamboat Tours
The Dolly Steamboat is a two level, air conditioned (lower level) boat that provides you with plenty of opportunity to sit and relax or move about the deck looking for that perfect photo shot. The boat is a 103 foot replica of a river boat. The cruise I went on lasted an hour and a half.
They also offer lunch or dinner cruises and astronomy cruises.
Cost: Prices include tax. Adults: $20 • Seniors 60 and over: $18 • Children 5 to 12: $12 • age 4 and under free ( You can make a reservation and purchase tickets online )
Food and Comfort: There is a snack bar and beverage bar on board. There are also restroom facilities. No outside food or beverage is allowed to be brought on board the boat with the exception of bottled water.
Location: The lake is located west of Phoenix on the Apache Trail. The drive is scenic and winding. Here are directions and a map:
Tips: Bring your binoculars and camera. Wear a hat, sunglasses and bring sunscreen. Bring cash or check for onboard refreshments.
Everyone on board seemed to thoroughly enjoy their cruise. We opted for a late lunch at Tortilla Flat which was only 5 minutes down the road. The beauty of taking a guided day tour was that this was all planned for us. We didn't have to worry about the drive (the scenic road is rather winding and drivers will not be looking at the scenery!), getting there on time or whether the restaurant would be open for a late lunch.
More Information:
Dolly Steamboat Cruise Website
Arizona Scenic Tours
Canyon Lake, Arizona
Comments
Sounds delightful
I enjoyed the trip more than I thought that I would too. It is a beautiful lake and if you see some wildlife it is an added bonus.
We don't think of Arizona for steamboats.
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