Phoenix may not have lakes like Minnesota, but locals have long known seven secrets for beating the heat.

The first is to head north to Slide Rock, in gorgeous Sedona. The next is to grab your inner tube and head for the Salt River!

That's right - gear up and head east for an afternoon or day of tubing on the lower Salt River in the beautiful Tonto National Forest. Our rapids are tame compared to anything you'll experience on the Colorado River, but they still can provide a fun, relaxing picnic on the water.

At the bare minimum, you'll want to pack lots of waterproof sun screen, old tennis shoes to protect your feet from the rocky river bottom, water to keep you hydrated, and life vests for any children and nonswimmers. People also take along radios and coolers - just remember to take a bag for litter if you take food.

The park is open daily (water flow permitting) from May through September. $15 will get you a tube rental and a ride on the parking shuttle.

Find directions and lots more info at Salt River Tubing.