It is spring in the Southwest, and that means it's time to hit the trails, soak up the sun rays, and embrace the most anticipated seasonal shift in the desert. Discover Gilbert is actively sharing all the outdoor recreational opportunities that make desert exploration easy and adventurous for visitors to Arizona. With new partnerships, outfitter tours, and a new series of Outdoor Recreation travel planning itineraries, Discover Gilbert is ready to help visitors get outside and get unplugged!

AN URBAN DESERT OASIS
Gilbert's Riparian Preserve serves up nearly five miles of trails in this 110-acre wetland area. Tucked in the middle of Gilbert, the urban escape invites visitors to weave through the park, where there are interpretive education panels on wildlife and vegetation throughout. A floating boardwalk crossing the northern end of the lake allows visitors a close-up view of the fish and ducks on the water. Additional educational areas include an ethnobotanical garden, a paleontology dig site, gardens for pollinators, including a hummingbird garden and butterfly garden, plus a state-of-the-art observatory and hilltop outdoor classroom. This spring, visitors can enjoy Riparian Camp, family bird walks, wildlife encounters, and an assortment of fitness and education classes.

SHRED THE DESERT ON TWO WHEELS
Exploring the desert on two wheels is much easier for visitors to Gilbert, Arizona. Already well regarded as a bicycle-friendly community with more than 135 miles of paths, a new partnership with SanTan Shredders features guided courses that take guests into the lowland cactus-studded forest in nearby San Tan Regional Park. Visitors can now book sunrise, sunset or even full moon desert guided rides. Beginners will want to consider the Sonoran Desert Excursion Mountain Bike Trail Ride focused on desert education with some moderate hills to climb. Full moon rides offer a unique chance to explore the Sonoran Desert with only the stars to guide you! Or, book the interpretive rides for a more immersive experience. Those guided tours explore the history, the sights and sounds of nature, geology, and catch flora and fauna up close.

BIRDING AT ITS BEST
Just east of Gilbert is Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Arizona's oldest and largest botanical garden. Visitors from Gilbert are encouraged to extend their outdoor fun out east. The arboretum's mission is focused on public education, study, research, and conservation, and creating appreciation for Arizona's desert landscapes. Birders will want to grab the binoculars as the arboretum is located within nearly 400 acres of pristine Sonoran Desert and has been named the 'most enchanting' Audubon Important Bird Area in Arizona.  

To learn more about outdoor adventures in Gilbert, Arizona visit Discover Gilbert's website, featuring a new series of tailored travel itineraries featuring outdoor fun for families and adventure seekers of all ages: www.discovergilbert.com/desert-adventures.

Discover Gilbert Outdoor Recreation Travel Itineraries: 

Get Unplugged, Get Outside in Gilbert, Arizona
Hiking the Superstition Wilderness
Birding Bliss – A Guide for Twitchers
Wild West Fun for Families
Wheely Fun Adventures