Phoenix 2009 Official Visitors Guide - (Page 12) R E C R E AT I O N & A DV E N T U R E Hiking Piestewa Peak STEP INTO THE SUNSHINE Hikers, bikers and climbers in Greater Phoenix have come to the same conclusion as coyotes, roadrunners and jackrabbits: Greater Phoenix is a great place to play. Blooming wildflowers, towering cactuses and near-perpetual sunshine make the Sonoran Desert one of the most beautiful and ecologically diverse deserts in the world. Naturally, it’s also an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. We encourage you to use this guide to make the most of your excursion into the new Wild West. For an up-to-date calendar of special events, tours and attractions, visit us online at www.visitphoenix.com. ROBERT GARCIA ROBERT SILBERBLATT HIKING Hiking is a daily ritual for thousands of Phoenicians who take to the nearby hills and mountains with verve. Embark on an early morning trek to the top of Camelback Mountain, located in Paradise Valley, or enjoy a jaunt to the top of Piestewa Peak. Both reward hikers with expansive views of the Valley of the Sun. Phoenix’s southern frontier gives rise to the largest municipal park in the nation: 16,000-acre South Mountain Park & Preserve. This landmark’s 50 miles of trails expose hikers to native flora and cultural treasures such as ancient Indian petroglyphs. Biking in South Mountain Park & Preserve CYCLING & MOUNTAIN BIKING Camelback Mountain Greater Phoenix is a cycling paradise, whether you prefer skinny tires or fat ones. Dozens of breezy trails sweep through valleys and over hills, while more challenging terrain puts even the hardiest riders to the test. The 3,200-foot climbs of the McDowell Mountains reward hard-core mountain bikers with outstanding views and swift descents, while serious road bikers pedal closer to nirvana in the Superstition Mountains. At the other end of the spectrum, Papago Park’s trails are a joy for cyclists of all ages. (877) CALL-PHX 12 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE ROBERT SILBERBLATT http://www.visitphoenix.com
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