With the Salt River, Saguaro and Canyon lakes just a short drive away, Alta Mesa residents Heather and Court Fetter knew this was just the right place to open their No Snow Stand Up Paddleboard shop.
“We both practically grew up in the water, waterskiing and surfing in California every chance we could get,” said Heather. “Then, one summer, while paddleboarding in California, we discovered paddleboards also would work on Arizona’s lakes and rivers. As paddleboarding became more popular, we decided to bring it here. No ocean required.”
So, why the name, No Snow? “We grew up in Canada, and we never wanted to live in snow again,” she laughed.
From their convenient location on the northwest corner of Power and Thomas roads, the Fetters have seen a tremendous growth in the popularity of Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) since they opened three years ago this month. Their shop is an easy stop to rent a paddleboard and equipment. Then head right up the road to the Salt River or any of the Tonto National Forest chain of lakes.
“Arizonans really are getting into SUP,” Heather stated. “It’s a total family activity that everyone from kids to grandparents can do together. The learning curve is so easy and quick. You can schedule a private lesson or join one of our social group events. Most kids and adults can learn to get up on the board and start paddling in about 15 to 20 minutes,” she continued. “It’s really important to fit the rider to the board, and when you rent from us, we make sure your board is the right size for you.”
The Fetters have an extremely comprehensive website, NoSnowSUP.com, which has great videos and photos explaining SUP techniques and equipment.
For the river, the Fetters rent high-end inflatable boards, which they claim are very durable in shallow or rocky water. Boarders can stand or sit on them. They recommend only the most experienced SUP riders run the river, from top to bottom, through the rapids. Most riders start at the Granite Reef Basin, the first parking lot area after you enter the national forest, and paddle upstream about a mile.
The Fetters organize various events for the local SUP community, such as Friday Happy Hour on the River and Moonlight Paddles, as well as kids clinics and weekend groups. They also have a Power Hour group, which goes out to Saguaro Lake for a SUP fitness workout. “It’s very low impact, but it’s a total body workout,” said Heather.
The shop is open every day during the summer. To ensure a board rental, call or text Court at (480) 220-5379 for reservations and scheduled pickups, as boards disappear quickly, especially on weekends.
For those thinking of buying a board of their own, the Fetters have a large selection of top brands. They will make sure to fit you on the right board for your budget, application and rider profile before you buy.
No Snow Stand Up Paddleboard is located at 3654 N. Power Road, Suite 104, behind Walgreens, one mile north of the Loop 202 Freeway. Call (480) 807-6787.