Bartlett Lake From Scottsdale: Boating, Passes, Tips

Before you go

•Tonto Pass: a Tonto Daily Pass is needed to park. The Forest Service lists it at $8.
•Boats: motorized watercraft need a watercraft sticker on the pass.
•Marina: Bartlett Lake Marina has a store, dining, fuel and a full-service launch.
•Drive: allow about an hour each way from North Scottsdale (estimate).

Tips for a group

•Go in spring or fall: summer is very hot on the water, so start early if you go then.
•Bring shade and water: more than you think you need.
•Rentals: check with the marina for current boat rentals and booking.

For other lakes, see Saguaro Lake and Salt River tubing.

Where to stay

Paradise Reserve has six bedrooms for up to 16 guests, five of them king suites with their own bathroom, plus a pool and spa, a golf simulator, a putting green and a pickleball court. Events and parties are not permitted at the house, and quiet hours apply.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Bartlett Lake from Scottsdale?

Bartlett Lake Marina describes it as 30 miles from Scottsdale. Allow about an hour each way from North Scottsdale (estimate).

Do you need a pass for Bartlett Lake?

Yes. A Tonto Pass is needed to park, plus a watercraft sticker for each motorized boat.

Where can you buy a Tonto Pass?

At the Bartlett Lake Marina store and many local vendors.

Fees from the USDA Forest Service (Tonto National Forest) and marina details from Bartlett Lake Marina, checked October 2026. Fees can change.

Bartlett Lake, the closest big lake to North Scottsdale.