Sonoran Desert Preserve (City of Phoenix Park)

The newest addition to the Phoenix Desert Preserve system, purchased with voter approved funds in 2011, boasts 14 miles of brand-new trails. Less popular than other parks in the vast Phoenix Park system, the Sonoran Desert Preserve is a pleasure to visit while reveling in its simple solitude. Its location is ideal for valley visitors, directly off I-17 and Jomax Rd., but removed enough from downtown that it can still feel remote.

Much of the Sonoran Desert Preserve is in the 'transition zone to the Arizona Upland subdivision of the Sonoran Desert.' This means that, because of its slightly higher elevation, there is more annual rainfall here than in other Phoenix Parks, which are located lower in the valley and is, therefore, more lush and contains a greater diversity of plant life.

I particularly enjoy this Preserve over other Phoenix area parks/preserves because of its solitude and dearth of vegetation. Other parks (see South Mountain) are larger and boast more terrain (at present), but they are also dustier, have higher degrees of trail erosion, and attract greater crowds. The Sonoran Desert Preserve will eventually be larger in area than South Mountain as its trail network is expanded into adjacent public lands. Trails were specifically designed in order to maximize beauty while also preserving plants, rock formations, and game trails. New trails and trailheads are currently being developed in this beautiful preserve for public enjoyment. Enjoy!

For more great information visit the Phoenix Park System website: http://phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/sonoran/index.html

Or check out a detailed article by the Arizona Republic: www.azcentral.com/community/northvalley/articles/2011/11/25/20111125phoenix-14-miles-trails-now-open-sonoran-preserve.html

Camelback Mountain (City of Phoenix Park)

Arguably the most popular hike in Phoenix, Camelback Mountain does not disappoint and offers something for everyone. Two trails, one from Echo Canyon and one from Cholla Lane, offer starting points for your ascent. Unfortunately, the Echo Canyon Summit Trail will be closed from January 28th 2013 thru Fall 2013 for renovation and improvements.  

The Echo Canyon Summit Trail has several different stages/obstacles for the hiker. The first portion of the ascent is made of stairs built by the city. The second stage is a more steep scramble over rock and dirt trails. There are hand rails for the more difficult sections and I had to use my hands a few times to get purchase on the rocks but it is definitely doable. There were multiple families with younger children on the trail as well as elderly persons, most were able to get through this section of the climb without great difficulty. The third section of the climb is steep hiking over rocks but not nearly as difficult as the previous section. I did not have to use my hands to ascend but on the way back did have to use my hands to safely descend. All in all, my ascent time was just under an hour with a few stops to take pictures and take a drink of water. Descent time was about the same. 1200 feet of elevation change from trailhead to summit.

The view from the top makes it all worthwhile. At just over 2700ft it is the highest point in Phoenix and offers wonderful views of the city and surrounding mountains/desert. Geology and flora consistent with the Sonoran Desert it encompasses.

Peoria Regional Preserve West Wing Mountains

This beautiful set of mountains located in Peoria, AZ are easily accessed off of Lake Pleasant and West Wing Parkways. The West Wing Mountain Trail takes you up and around the three mountains that make up this section of the reserve. From the trailhead to summit is 300ft of elevation change and makes for a short and sweet hike.

This hike is family and pet-friendly without the crowds of some of the more popular City of Phoenix parks. The trails are well maintained and there appeared to be little to no erosion off the trails which was great to see. The geology and flora of the area is typical for the Sonoran Desert region. Throughout the hike you are afforded lovely views of the city of Phoenix and surrounding mountains/desert.