Canyon Lake

Presenting a refreshing breather from the arid scenery of the desert, Canyon Lake beckons tourists and area residents alike. Resulting from the formation of the Mormon Flat Dam in the early 1920’s, this lake is located east of Mesa, Arizona. Fed by the Salt River’s creeks, the Boulder Creek and the Tortilla Creek, the lake glistens with mountain waters.

Although it is the smallest of the lakes formed behind this dam, Canyon Lake is a popular spot for swimmers, boaters, and fishermen alike. Desert plants in a variety of species dot the landscape surrounding the lake. Foot trails intersperse the curving ravines and rocky landscapes and lead to secluded springs and canyons.

Open year round, Canyon Lake Marina and Campground provides a clean beach area, marina services, food, and camping with all of the amenities. Just two miles from the lake, Tortilla Campground, which is open from October through April, offers the amenities needed for a fun-filled stay. Across the way, Tortilla Flat provides a convenient spot to mail those scenic postcards written in haste between water skiing, fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking.

Families living in the area and vacationers can enjoy a wide variety of activities at one of the three recreation sites, of varying size, that are located at the grounds of the lake. The Acacia Picnic site, the Boulder Creek Recreation site, and the Palo Verde Recreation site offer opportunities for fun amid the natural flora and fauna.

Originally known as the Tonto Trail, the Apache Trail, fifteen miles of gorgeous, colorful scenery provides the only access to the splendor of the lake. The trail has a colorful past, as well, beginning as an aboriginal pathway through the nearby Superstition Mountains, continuing as a construction road for the Roosevelt Dam, and ending as a conduit to the recreational activities of the lake. Heavy traffic on the weekends, as well as, sharp curves necessitate careful driving along this mostly paved corridor, allowing your gaze to linger on the spectacular scenery around you.

Canyon Lake, the site of state records for the largemouth bass, black buffalo, and the yellow bass, offers a variety of fish for the avid fishermen. In addition to bass, rainbow trout, walleye, crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish make for an interesting afternoon of casting off the line.

Tantalize your senses as you explore the beauty of the Sonoran Desert while aboard one of the world’s first class replicas of a two-tier sternwheeler, the Dolly Steamboat. Captivating tales by the captain, chance sightings of wildlife, and amazing views of the starlit sky, add to the excitement of a trip along the Junior Grand Canyon.

This family owned business departs daily, seven days a week, and offers a special twilight dinner cruise on weekends. If you own a home close by, celebrate a special event, such as, an anniversary or business promotion, aboard the Dolly Steamboat during one of her twilight dinner cruises.

If relocation is in your future, consider making this area the location of your new home. Purchasing real estate is an investment that should be considered carefully to insure that you get the best value for your lifestyle and your money.

Canyon Lake...yet another reason to make Mesa, Arizona your new home.

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Saguaro Lake
Canyon Lake

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