Photo Slideshow

Click the captions buttom to read descriptions for each image

April 2010 Trip Recap, by Evon Hart

Yesterday I surprised my husband for his 40th birthday with a day-long white water rafting excursion on the Upper Salt River, here in AZ, with Exuberance.

We all met up in Tempe to carpool in a comfortable van. At our meet-up site, Ann had homemade granola, fresh fruit, beverages, yogurt and other breakfast snacks. When we arrived at the Salt River, it was PACKED! However, it quickly became apparent that Ann had a solid professional reputation with our rafting guide company. They creatively found ways to help our group avoid feeling crowded, which resulted in us enjoying a bit more stretch of the river than originally planned, AND an unplanned hike to a gorgeous waterfall. The Upper Salt River feels as if you're on a mini-Colorado River in a mini-Grand Canyon. The beauty of the canyon walls is breathtaking. This is truly one of the most awe-inspiring natural places of serenity I have encountered.

The river guides are such interesting souls. They live along the river's edge for the season. Part of the river trip includes lunch at their "home". Oh my... what a delicious lunch it was! They served healthy snacks like oranges, apples & peanut butter and chips & salsa. Then came the lunch... FAJITAS with all the fixins! They were so gracious and hospitable. The guides were great at knowing their passengers and meeting the needs and level of the group.

In our boat of 7 people, there were those who were total thrill seekers (I was among that group) and those who were a bit more tentative. Glenn, our very experienced guide, was safe & responsible but FUN! My husband and I consciously chose the front of the raft, where it is believed you get the most splash and thrill. I haven't laughed that hard or had my heart beating that fast in a long, long time.

The day ended with Class IV rapids and a bumpy bus ride back to the parking lot, where Ann had an incredible spread of homemade tabouli, guacamole, salsa, bean salad and amazing chocolate chip cookies! It was a day spent in the glorious beauty Arizona has to offer. It is so easy to be immersed in the role of parent, that we can tend to neglect seeking out new experiences of wonder & joy.

Keep in mind that Exuberance offers adventures far less involved than a river trip. There are half day or full day guided hikes not far from central Phoenix, as well. I hope we can all cross paths on a river trip or daylong hike some day soon. Until then, see you on the mat!

Evon Hart is a Certified Yoga Instructor and licensed massage therapist at Desert Song Yoga & Massage Center in Phoenix, Arizona (desertsongyoga.com). She finds deep inspiration from music, community, the ocean, traveling, motherhood and laughter... and now, the Upper Salt River.