Fancy a high-season hike? Here are four of our favorite nature-centric trails – one for each corner of the Valley.
West Valley
White Tank Mountain Regional Park
Maricopa County’s largest regional park covers nearly 30,000 acres of rugged desert and mountain terrain on Metro Phoenix’s western edge. More than 30 miles of multi-use trails wind past cacti, palo verde and creosote, and boast seasonal waterfalls, wildflowers and birdwatching opportunities, including Gambel’s quail, cactus wren and several species of hawk, owl, dove and sparrow. 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Rd., Waddell
Phoenix/Central
Dreamy Draw Recreation Area
Nestled within 242 acres of the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, this aptly named desert dreamscape recently reopened after extensive renovations, including expanded parking, upgraded restrooms and ADA-accessible paths. Miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails – dotted with jumping cholla, desert lavender and saguaros – make it easy to forget that the bustling SR-51 lies just beyond the park’s peaceful peaks. 2421 E. Northern Ave., Phoenix
North Valley
Jewel of the Creek Preserve
Managed by the Desert Foothills Land Trust, this 26-acre riparian refuge’s titular creek is one of the only perennial streams in Maricopa County. The year-round water supply supports a diverse array of flora and fauna, including cottonwood trees, mesquite bosque and mature saguaro stands as well as canyon tree frogs, Sonoran mud turtles, javelina and dozens of resident and migratory bird species – all just 30 minutes from Phoenix. 44029 N. Spur Cross Rd., Cave Creek
East Valley
Tempe Butte
The hike up this 1,495-foot volcanic landform at the edge of Mill Avenue is especially stunning at night, when the lights of the sprawling city of Tempe look like tiny stars blinking in the distance. Despite its urban setting, Tempe Butte supports a surprising variety of desert life – barrel and cholla cacti, blue palo verde trees and creosote bushes – plus seasonal wildflowers and the occasional jackrabbit sighting. 100 S. Mill Ave., Tempe
