Find a reprieve from the heat (and see wild horses) at the Salt River
To cool off during the sizzling summer months, Phoenicians head to the Salt River, a meandering waterway east of the city in the Tonto National Forest. You can rent an inner tube to float down the calm waters – it’s the original lazy river – for hours, depending on how much time you have to spend. Remember to bring sunscreen, ample drinking water and snacks, and keep an eye out for the Salt River wild horses that roam the banks. This destination is a little more than two hours from Phoenix.