The Verde River is a tributary of the Salt River, approximately 170 mi (273.5 km) long, in central Arizona, in the United States. The Verde River is one of the largest perennial rivers within the state.

Description

Its head is formed by a dam that catches Big Chino and Williamson Valley Washes and creates Sullivan Lake in Yavipai county (south of Paulden). The Verde flows freely for 125 miles through private, state, tribal and National Forest System lands before encountering the first of two dams that make the Horseshoe Reservoir and Bartlett Reservoir. The Verde River and the Salt River confluence near Fountain Hills. The cities of Camp Verde, Clarkdale and Cottonwood are located along the river and constitute the primary population centers.

In 1984 the United States Congress designated approximately 65 mi (100 km) of the river as the Verde Wild and Scenic River as part of the National Wild and Scenic River program.

River Floating

Floating rafts and kayaks is a popular past time on the Verde as it runs through scenic valleys and the Mazatzal Wilderness Area. However, floating the Verde is not for beginners or the novice. All safety precautions should be taken when preparing for a trip on this river.

See also

• List of Arizona rivers

External link

• NPS: Verde Wild and Scenic River (http://www.nps.gov/rivers/wsr-verde.html)