Great Hikes and Parks

THINGS TO DO

IN THE VALLEY

9Great Hikes and Parks

Ready to get out and explore nature? Try these great spots around town. MICHELLE GLICKSMAN

CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN

The iconic Camelback Mountain— so called because its shape resembles that of a reclining camel—is a popular hiking destination. Two trails lead to the summit, which sits 2,704 feet above sea level. Both are challenging, with uneven terrain and steep elevation gains. Make it to the top and be rewarded with stunning views of the Valley. Echo Canyon trail: McDonald Drive east of Tatum Boulevard, Paradise Valley. Cholla trail: 64th Street and Cholla Lane (north of Camelback Road), Scottsdale. www.phoenix.gov/parks

INDIAN BEND WASH GREENBELT

This park, traversing 11 miles, offers plenty of room for recreational activities or relaxation. Lakes, parks, paths, golf courses, and more are perfect for walking, biking, and sports. Multiple entry points, Scottsdale. www.scottsdaleaz.gov/parks

MCCORMICK-STILLMAN RAILROAD PARK

This 30-acre park is typically a draw for its popular train that runs around the perimeter of the park, multiple playgrounds, Model Railroad Building, and more, but there is also lots of grass for outdoor play, as well as plenty of ramadas and picnic tables available. 7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale. www.therailroadpark.com

MCDOWELL SONORAN PRESERVE

Explore 30,580 acres of preserve via 225 miles of trails throughout Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve. There are seven trailheads, and the trails range from easy with a 0-foot elevation gain, to moderate with a 2,500-foot elevation gain. www.mcdowellsonoran.org

PAPAGO PARK

Papago Park is not only home to the Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden, but the mountainous area offers exceptional trails, perfect for hiking, running, and mountain biking. There’s also a fishing pond, archery range, orienteering course, and more. The easy Hole-in-the-Rock trail provides the opportunity to peek through a, well, big hole in a rock. 625 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix. www.phoenix.gov/parks

PIESTEWA PEAK

Various trails offer routes ranging from moderate to difficult at this mountain. The Summit Trail gains an elevation of 1,200 feet and takes you to the second highest peak in Phoenix (Camelback Mountain is the highest). Located in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve. Multiple entry points, Phoenix. www.phoenix.gov/parks

PINNACLE PEAK

Located in Pinnacle Peak Park, Pinnacle Peak is an easy to moderate hike with a trail that is 1.75 miles each way. There is also rock climbing within the park open to experienced rock climbers with appropriate gear. 26802 N. 102nd Way, Scottsdale. www.scottsdaleaz. gov/parks

TEMPE BEACH PARK

Tempe Beach Park, which borders Tempe Town Lake, offers a range of recreational options, from baseball diamonds to bike lanes; fishing; grills; five miles of trails for walking, biking, and running; and ramadas and picnic tables. Mill Avenue and Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe. www.tempe.gov

VETERANS OASIS PARK

This 113-acre park features a fishing lake, trails for hiking and horseback riding, a playground, an environmental education center, and more. 4050 E. Chandler Heights Road, Chandler. www.chandleraz.gov

Always remember water and sunscreen when outdoors.