Explore the four corners of the Valley to find the best hikes to take the kids on.
Scottsdale/Cave Creek
Jewel of the Creek Preserve
Pack a lunch, bring some swim gear and get acquainted with this 26-acre preserve. A cool stream runs through this easy-to-walk trail, filled with stunning views and gorgeous plant life. Your kids might complain about the drive, but their whining will transform into laughter when they jump in the water. 44029 N. Spur Cross Rd., Cave Creek, dflt.org
Phoenix
Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area
Dubbed “a lush little urban oasis” by PHOENIX hiking guru Mare Czinar, this pleasant, meandering trail system located 2 miles south of Downtown Phoenix is the result of a $100 million restoration project. The former dumping ground has been transformed into a thriving oasis, returning hikers to a yesteryear milieu where the Salt River once flowed freely. 2439 S. Central Ave., phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/rio-salado-habitat-restoration-area
West Valley
Waterfall Trail
Waterfalls in the Valley? Well, maybe after a rain. This easy, 1.8-mile out-and-back located in White Tank Regional Park in Waddell includes some light bouldering, terrific Valley views and – especially during monsoon season – a seasonal waterfall and plunge pool. Keep an eye out for 10,000-year-old petroglyphs. 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Rd., Waddell,
maricopacountyparks.net/park-locator/white-tank-mountain-regional-park
East Valley
Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch
The wildlife is the thing at this 110-acre wetland basin in Gilbert, which features a 5-acre lake that you can circumnavigate via a walking path while admiring mesquite-cottonwood stands, ducks, rabbits, American avocets, quail and other beasties. It was named an Important Bird Area by Audubon. 2757 E. Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert, gilbertaz.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/riparian-preserve-at-water-ranch
