Rio Salado

by Nick Coons
Jan 12, 2005

I am happy to say that I've made it over to the Salt River

Salt River	(so'lt RI'-ve'r)
The Salt River runs through south Phoenix to the northern part of the state. It has been dammed up in various locations creating several lakes used for Arizona's boating enthusists. The river got its name for the salty taste of its water. This was caused by the enormous amount of Salt Cedar trees that bank the river. These trees have a salty taste to both their leaves and roots.

recently and have been able to take some good pictures. It was a little difficult finding a suitable location. I first went to the top of A-Mountain near ASU in hopes of getting a good view from the very top. However, the river wasn't very visible past the lake, which is there anyway, so any pictures of that wouldn't be very impressive.

Remembering that there is no bridge where McKellips crosses the river, I knew they'd have it closed off, and would hope that there'd be plenty of room available to pull over and get some good shots. But again, no good. There were police barricades directing traffic north on Alma School Rd. up to McDowell and didn't anyone near the river.

Since I was already at McDowell, how about trying that? McDowell ends just after Country Club Dr. so perhaps this would be a good place to get a few shots. Foiled one more time. So I jumped on the 202 and headed east.

There's a bridge on Gilbert Rd. north of McDowell that goes across the bridge. This turned out to be a great place to pull off and take pictures. By the time I got there, the sun was mostly set. I was able to get some nice pictures with the sun reflecting off of the water. But I do plan to head back and take more pictures during full sunlight while the opportunity still exists.

If you decide to walk down there, take a few precautions. Wear shoes that you don't care about getting dirty. The water was higher last week than it is currently, so the bed near the river has mud that is deceivingly soft. And I speak from experience, after covering my shoes in mud while sinking in three inches.