Nature and Parks in Phoenix

"Offering access to both North Mountain and Shaw Butte, peaks dominating the north Phoenix skyline at over 2,100 feet, the North Mountain Preserve features over 20 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. The Visitor Center offers a great introduction to the flora, fauna, geology, history, and archaeology of the area. After stopping there, visitors can hike a trail leading through ancient Hohokam petroglyphs and a rich desert ecosystem, including saguaros, palo verde and mesquite trees, and creosote bushes. In early spring, they can enjoy a burst of colors during the hike, since North Mountain is one of the best places for wildflower viewing in and around the city." - MATADOR_NETWORK