Walk This Way: Top Trails to Experience Desert Beauty

Hiking, kayaking, rock-climbing and biking are all popular ways that residents and visitors alike love to explore Arizona while getting lots of Vitamin D from the sunshine. If those adrenaline-pumping experiences aren’t what you’re looking for, we’ve got good news for you! There are ways to explore the beauty of the area without having to rappel down a cliff. Check out these lower-impact ways to experience the beauty of the East Valley.

URBAN PARK LOOP TRAILS

Escape the hotel gym and experience the Sonoran Desert at the Town of Gilbert’s Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, an urban park that offers a series of loop trails surrounding seven ponds stocked with fish. This is also a natural sanctuary for birds and bird watching is a popular pastime at the preserve with close to 200 birds spotted so far by hobbyists. Here, 4.5 miles of walking paths across 110 acres of wildlife habitat make the treadmill at the gym look lackluster.

REFLECTIONS AT THE ROSE GARDEN

Stop to smell the roses in the Southwest’s largest rose garden, boasting more than 9,000 bushes of all varieties. The Rose Garden at Mesa Community College is not only a Mesa landmark but a centerpiece for community gathering. It’s also a hidden gem for lovely stroll through the gardens for those looking to have a quiet afternoon of reflection.

DESERT BEAUTY BY FOOT

Looking for something less rigorous than trail hiking? The Town of Queen Creek’s Sonoqui Wash offers desert exploration by foot without the incline of a hike. Walk along the paved trail to enjoy the great outdoors at your own pace.