Volunteer Excursion to Dolly Steamboat, Tonto National Forest, Tortilla Flat in AZ
Today we had a fun day taking an excursion with some of our fellow volunteers. We took a short trip through Arizona’s Tonto National Forest via historic Apache Trail to Canyon Lake Marina near Tortilla Flat. We boarded the Dolly Steamboat for the Scenic Nature Cruise along with other tourists. It was so amazing to be there after seeing pictures of it online.
The Dolly Steamboat:
The Dolly Steamboat is a historic paddlewheeler that offers scenic cruises on Canyon Lake. The boat is named after Dolly Johnson, who was the first woman to captain a steamboat on the Colorado River. The Dolly Steamboat is a popular tourist attraction, and it is a great way to see the beauty of Canyon Lake.
The weather was absolutely ideal for our cruise. We enjoyed the flexibility of moving between the indoor and outdoor seating areas, taking advantage of the comfortable cabin when we wanted to chat and share stories with our fellow volunteer passengers. We even managed to snag a spot near the bar area, which was perfect for observing the lively atmosphere on board.
A Special Shoutout to the Crew
Captain Jeff was a fantastic and informative narrator! At the helm, he navigated the lake while sharing fascinating information and stories in a fun and engaging manner. The entire crew was friendly and helpful throughout our adventure, ensuring we had a comfortable and enjoyable experience. But the real highlights were the long-horned sheep and bald eagles! This area is known for these magnificent creatures, and we weren’t disappointed. We were even treated to a bonus view of a bald eagle nest! It was a fantastic opportunity to capture some memorable photos and videos of the beautiful surroundings.
The Dolly Steamboat offers a wonderful way to experience the beauty of Canyon Lake. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing afternoon on the water or a chance to spot some local wildlife, this cruise is definitely worth considering. We decided we would take this cruise again next season and hope to bring our grandchildren along. They would love it!
Tips for your Dolly Steamboat Cruise:
- Check the cruise schedule: The Dolly Steamboat offers various cruise options, so choose one that suits your interests and time frame.
- Book your tickets in advance: Especially during peak season , it’s advisable to book your tickets ahead of time to secure your spot.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat: The Arizona sun can be strong, so it’s essential to protect yourself from the rays. The cabin area is airconditioned for summer, but you still want to venture outside to take in the scenery and snap some pics.
- Bring your camera: You won’t want to miss capturing the stunning scenery and wildlife sightings.
- Relax and enjoy the ride! Sit back, soak in the views, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the lake.
- Consider food: You are not allowed to bring outside food or drinks on board. The 1.5 hour Nature Cruise offered some alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks along with chips and popcorn. So consider when departing the boat, drive a few miles further and stop at Tortilla Flat for snacks or a meal at this historic village. Or consider the Dinner Cruises
