I’m excited to share a new Solo Travel Destination Post from Kerry, a member of the Solo Travel Society on Facebook. Kerry, who hails from the United States, has submitted this insightful report about her solo trip to Mesa, Arizona. Do you have a solo travel destination you’d like to recommend? Share your experience here, along with a few photos, to inspire fellow travelers!
Solo Travel Rating: 1
(1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult. Please refer to the chart below)
Languages Spoken: English
Costs at Destination: Reasonable (covering local transportation, dining, tours, events, and attractions)
Like many of you, I love to travel, and planning my trips is a crucial aspect of that experience. In fact, I often find that I spend more time planning than I do traveling! I subscribe to various travel newsletters (including Solo Traveler), visit travel websites frequently, and indulge in daydreaming about future adventures.
During my research, I often discover captivating destinations, inviting accommodations, and natural wonders that spark my interest. If I’m feeling particularly organized, I save articles or posts in my “travel wish list” folder. When it’s time for my next getaway, I revisit this folder to see if anything stands out.
I typically plan a trip for my birthday, which falls in mid-May. This year was significant, and I initially aimed for an extravagant adventure—somewhere like Tanzania for a safari, Paris, or even New Zealand. Unfortunately, my plans didn’t unfold as anticipated, so I decided to focus on a brief weekend getaway instead. I revisited my travel wish list and rediscovered Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch.
Situated along the banks of the Lower Salt River and about 25 miles east of Mesa, Arizona, the ranch is nestled within the scenic Tonto National Forest. The river winds through a canyon formed by the Mazatzal Mountains and the Superstition Mountains. The ranch exudes a cozy Western ambiance, featuring 20 rustic yet clean and comfortable guest rooms, an outdoor pool, walking trails, and excellent dining options—including a complimentary full breakfast buffet every morning. Chef Scott Heinonen and his team also prepare a variety of upscale boxed lunches and occasionally offer special dinners (please note that dinner is only available on certain days).
What’s even more exciting is the extensive range of outdoor activities available at the ranch. From horseback riding through the Saguaro-studded Sonoran Desert—after which the ranch is named—to mountain biking and guided ATV tours, as well as boating along the river, there are plenty of ways to stay active.
The Lower Salt River Recreation Area is perfect for rafting, kayaking, paddleboarding, or tubing. You can either bring your own gear or sign up for a guided river trip through the ranch. Fishing and birdwatching are also popular activities in this multi-use area. In fact, the Audubon Society has recognized the ranch as an Important Bird Area (IBA). While along the river, you might catch a glimpse of the local herd of wild horses. I signed up for a guided raft tour and truly enjoyed it! I ended up on a small raft with a friendly local couple, and our guide was both humorous and educational, making the trip exceptionally enjoyable. We even encountered the horses at the end of our adventure.
Beyond river activities, I also booked a sightseeing tour on Saguaro Lake aboard a double-decker boat run by Desert Belle Cruises. The launch site was conveniently a short drive from the ranch. They provide a selection of narrated cruises, including a mimosa cruise and a craft beer cruise featuring live music.
Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch is an ideal destination for solo travelers. You can choose to keep to yourself or easily socialize with others. I met a few other women from Minneapolis who were there for the week, and we had a great time relaxing by the pool. Overall, it was a delightful solo birthday getaway in a surprisingly beautiful setting!
Solo Travel Rating for Mesa, Arizona
- Safety – 1 (1 very safe, 2 generally safe, 3 cautious at all times.)
- Language – 1 (1 English is the primary language, 2 English speakers are easy to find, 3 rare English speakers)
- Navigation – 2 (1 easy to navigate by transit or car, 2 poor transit, car necessary, 3 not easy to get around)
- Culture – 1 (1 Similar to North America or Western Europe, 2 different but relaxed, 3 challenging)
- Average Rating – 1 (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult)
Last updated: 14th September 2024
