By Roger Naylor
It has become apparent in recent years that visitors seeking adventure in Arizona only need to make one stop–a check-in to Castle Hot Springs. From there it’s just a matter of choosing from the wide range of experiences offered by the resort. Those include guided hikes, e-biking, UTV tours, Via Ferrata Arizona, archery, axe throwing, and paddleboard yoga as just a few favorites.
The variety of activities offered is one of the things that makes Castle Hot Springs stand out. Another is the people who lead those many activities.
Since reopening in 2019, Castle Hot Springs has earned a reputation as the ultimate basecamp for Arizona adventure. It starts with the power of place. The resort is not just located in the desert but also a part of it. The roots go deep here, planted at an ancient spring, amid the saguaro forests, and surrounded by the Bradshaw Mountains.
It is a habitat as exotic and beautiful as it is rare. The kind that exists almost nowhere else in the Southwest. When guests step outside of their luxury bungalows, they have a chance to discover wonders and face challenges of their choosing. All those activities are led by staff guides, eager to share their enthusiasm and passion for this special place that seems to cast a spell over everyone.
When guests explore with the energetic team of Castle Hot Springs for an exploration of the desert, a climb, or other type of adventure, a goal is for them to experience a deep appreciation for the environment which has been largely untouched for years.
Hiking, exercise, and time outdoors are all part of the wellness-driven philosophy of Castle Hot Springs. This is what relieving stress and clearing your mind is all about. This is where it begins.
Ryan Myers is the Activities and Adventures Department Manager and has been guiding guests at the resort for the past five years. He was born in the Sonoran Desert and is a lifelong explorer and accomplished climber. He revels in getting to see the desert anew through the eyes of the guests.
Although every guest receives a safety talk about this unique environment, for Myers it goes far beyond just making sure they have water and are wearing proper footwear. He pushes them to be very much in the moment. “I want each guest to feel supported and encouraged to use their voice to ask questions, ask for help, or create unique conversations and to be able to make a choice for themselves in how much they want to take on.”
For some guests, just a short jaunt on Arizona hiking trails is a taste of something new. Others will want to explore a slot canyon or challenge themselves on a Via Ferrata climb. There is a sense of exhilaration to be found in those moments for the guests when they accomplish a goal or improve a skill. They learn something, not just about the desert, but about themselves.
Guests remark that they surprise themselves when they do something that they never considered they could do before. Curated activities are designed to adapt to each individual hoping to encourage the profound level of inspiration that is the result of overcoming challenges and exploring new experiences.
Ask the team the most fulfilling part of the day, and the sentiment is often: Witnessing the spark of confidence ignited through adventure and guests discover a new sense of what they are capable of.
The guides are fully engaged with each guest in their care, creating space for each adventurer to be themselves—curious, open, and connected. It’s about embracing the moment and discovering a shared passion for the desert, each in their own way.
The entire resort team agrees: Castle Hot Springs occupies a truly special corner of the world—one with the power to leave a lasting impression. They encourage guests to stay open to each new experience along the way—and they’re here to help make that possible.
Maybe it’s time to treat yourself to an Arizona adventure. Spend some time at Castle Hot Springs and embrace some amazing days, the very best days, in this special desert.