Top 5 Arizona Lakes For Wakeboarding
As a wakeboarder in Arizona, you're truly spoiled for choice when it comes to world-class riding destinations right in your backyard. From serene desert reservoirs to breathtaking mountain lakes, the state's diverse landscapes offer an incredible variety of settings to suit every rider's preferences.
Top 5 Lakes in Arizona for Wakeboarding
Here are the top five lakes in Arizona that should be on every wakeboarder's bucket list.
Lake Powell
Straddling the Arizona/Utah border, Lake Powell is an absolute paradise for wakeboarders. With nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline weaving through majestic sandstone canyons, you'll find endless spots to unleash your skills on the deep blue waters. The surrounding rock formations don't just provide an epic backdrop - they also help create buttery smooth conditions ideal for riding. Plus, the sheer size of Lake Powell means you can easily escape the crowds and claim your own secluded area.
What makes Lake Powell even more special is the ability to wakeboard while taking in panoramic views that seem pulled straight from a desert dreamscape.
Glide past towering buttes, narrow slots, and craggy cliffs as you carve across glassy water reflecting the quintessential southwestern scenery. The scenery changes at every turn, with new canyons, rock formations, and hidden coves to discover. For the ultimate wakeboarding adventure, rent a houseboat and use it as your basecamp to explore the countless arms and secluded areas of Lake Powell. Wake up to fresh glassy water conditions in a new spot each morning, spend your days ripping past twisted rock walls, then relax under the stars after an epic session. Just be sure to stock up on supplies, as services can be limited once you get off the beaten path.
Lake Havasu
Get ready to party and shred at Lake Havasu! This renowned spring break hotspot boasts crystal-clear waters and a lively atmosphere that wakeboarding was made for. With no speed limits on the lake, it's a mecca for high-performance boats and riders looking to push their limits. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, the lake's beaches, coves, and consistent glassy conditions make for an unforgettable experience.
As you session the park-style features and catch major air off the wakes, you'll be treated to beautiful desert views all around. The laid-back vibe and festive energy create the perfect blend for epic rides and living it up with your crew off the water.
During spring break, Lake Havasu turns into a wakeboarding spectacle, with pros showing off their skills to the roar of beachside crowds.
Even outside of peak season, Havasu delivers with its reliable slick water conditions and central Arizona location making it an easy weekend getaway from Phoenix. Be sure to check out the Site Six Launch Ramp, a local favorite that offers free access to get you out on the lake quickly. Just be prepared for crowds if hitting the water on summer weekends.
Roosevelt Lake
As Arizona's largest lake located entirely within state borders, Theodore Roosevelt Lake offers wakeboarding bliss with wide-open spaces and minimal boat traffic. Rip across the glassy waters and soak in views of the surrounding Tonto National Forest on your long, uninterrupted runs. This hidden gem provides the perfect playground to advance your skills without the commotion of busier lakes.
At nearly 22 miles long and surrounded by scenic desert hiking trails, this massive lake lets you go big without worrying about crowds.
Work on landing new tricks or push your speed as you carve back and forth across the calm waters. With reliable winds, warm temperatures, and incredible desert scenery, it's an ideal spot to spend countless days on the water perfecting your ride.
For a true wakeboarding road trip experience, post up for a few nights at one of the campgrounds or RV parks around Roosevelt Lake. That way you can easily get out for morning sessions before the winds pick up and evening rides as the water turns to glass again at sunset. Just be prepared for extreme summer heat, which is part of what keeps crowds down compared to other Phoenix-area lakes.
Bartlett Lake
Just a short drive from the Phoenix metro area, Bartlett Lake serves up a refreshing alternative to the region's busier waters. Newly paved roads and multiple launch points make access a breeze. Once on the lake, you'll appreciate the massive 180,000 acre surface area that allows you to move freely and go bigger with your tricks and jumps without worrying about crowds. The tranquil setting is hard to beat.
As part of the Tonto National Forest, Bartlett Lake boasts calm waters surrounded by rugged desert beauty. Shred in the shadow of the Mazatzal Mountains, taking study breaks to simply drift and soak in the zen-like vibes. With minimal wakes, it's also an excellent spot for learning new skills and dialing in your fundamentals.
Glassy water conditions are the norm here.
While Bartlett isn't as conveniently located as some of the other Phoenix-area lakes, the tradeoff is an uncrowded, peaceful setting to focus on your riding. It's the perfect spot for a mellow wakeboarding session or progressing at your own pace without being hassled by boats throwing wild wakes. Best of all, you can escape the city's hustle while still being close to home.
Canyon Lake
With striking red rock cliffs reflecting off the glassy waters, Canyon Lake is where wakeboarding meets scenic beauty. While on the smaller side, this unique spot consistently creates ultra-smooth conditions that riders dream of. Tucked away in the Tonto National Forest, you can fully immerse yourself in the sport while surrounded by Arizona's iconic landscapes. It's a bucket-list experience.
As you rip across the slick waters, towering canyon walls seem to rise directly out of the lake, making for a jaw-dropping backdrop. Glide through secluded sandstone coves and pull off tricks with mountain reflections amplifying every move.
The relatively compact layout means less boat traffic and no need to ride for miles to find a prime glassy spot.
Though access is a bit trickier via winding cliffside roads, the sheer splendor of this wilderness oasis is well worth the journey. In fact, the rugged remoteness only adds to Canyon Lake's mystique and makes scoring an epic wakeboarding session here feel even more special. Just get an early start to nab one of the limited parking spots at the launch ramps.
Final Thoughts
No matter which of these wakeboarding oases you visit, be sure to obtain any required permits and remain mindful of preserving these natural gems. Protect the waters by ensuring no gas or oil is leaked from your boat, and be courteous to other lake users. With so many epic spots in Arizona to explore, there's nowhere better for a keen wakeboarder to call home. Get out there and leave your mark!