Salt River Tubing, Arizona’s “floating picnic,” drew thousands to Power Road in northeast Mesa this weekend for the first weekend of the 2009 summer season.

Arizonans have been floating down the river for 28 years now, and it continues to be a popular summer attraction.

“It’s one of the only things to do in Arizona, and it’s fun,” said sociology junior Chad McLelland, who was preparing for a day on the river with his friends.

“I’ve been plenty of times with my friends, McLelland said. “We come all the time just because it’s fun, relaxing and we like drinking.”

Owner Henri Breault said he expects a great summer this year.

“All the snow runs off from up in the mountains and up in the ski resorts, and it all comes down here in the Valley,” he said. “We had a great snow, so we should have a great river this summer.”

Breault emphasized the importance of common sense and safety on the river. Glass bottles are strictly prohibited and inexperienced swimmers are strongly encouraged to wear life vests.

Salt River Tubing runs from May to September and will be open seven days a week starting May 11.

Reach the reporter at melanie.kiser@asu.edu.