advertisement
4 December 2023
For some, escaping from the hustle and bustle may look like a quiet soak in a warm bath, secluded from the world outside. However, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve Conservancy in Arizona is an unparalleled discovery for those with a more adventurous spirit seeking solitude in nature. This remarkable destination ranks as the largest urban preserve in the entire nation.
Encompassing more than 35,000 acres of pristine wilderness, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve Conservancy owes its existence to the dedication of over 700 devoted caretakers. Collaborating closely with the city of Scottsdale, these stewards have transformed what was once a modest 200-acre green space into an awe-inspiring natural wonder, surpassing the iconic Central Park in New York City by a staggering 36 times in size.
This vast expanse of preserved wilderness allows travelers to partake in various outdoor activities. From beautiful hikes and biking trails to the serenity of horseback riding and rock climbing challenges, this preserve offers something for everyone. It’s a sanctuary where one can seek solace in the great outdoors, far removed from the urban hustle and bustle.
The story of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve’s evolution is intrinsically tied to Scottsdale’s growth in the 1990s. Nature-loving citizens joined forces with the city to safeguard the McDowell Mountains and the fragile Sonoran Desert ecosystem that had drawn Scottsdale into the limelight. These dedicated individuals protect this natural treasure and generously offer guided hikes, educational programs, and an informative website detailing the extensive trail system.\
Choosing the Best Time to Visit
With over a million visitors annually, timing your trip to the preserve is crucial. For the most enjoyable experience, consider planning your visit in late fall or early spring. During these periods, the desert’s weather is at its most pleasant. For instance, April in Scottsdale boasts an average temperature of 72 degrees, while October sees an average of 75 degrees. However, exercise caution if you intend to visit during the summer months, as temperatures can soar into triple digits.
Exploring the Preserve
Hiking enthusiasts will revel in the preserve’s 225 miles of shared-use trails, perfect for independent exploration. For a deeper connection with this remarkable landscape, consider joining a guided hike—options include women-only hikes, educational outings, and those designed to work up a good sweat.
For those who thirst for knowledge, the preserve offers an array of informational lectures. Dive into topics like “The Bizarre Human History of the McDowells,” which delves into the impact of military, mining, ranching, urbanization, and conservation activities on the area’s natural resources.
If a day isn’t enough, extend your adventure by planning an overnight stay at one of the preserve’s three campgrounds. They provide a perfect starting point for backcountry exploration.
Contributing to Conservation
After experiencing the preserve’s unparalleled beauty, you might be inspired to contribute to its future preservation. Volunteering with the conservation effort or donating to support this precious natural habitat are two great ways to give back.
advertisement
The Bobcats in Tucson Project (BIT), was launched by a group of Arizona Game and Fish retirees. They have provided insights into the lives of bobcats as they thrive in Tucson’s urban environments. The study, which ran from 2019 to 2024, highlighted the challenges and successes of bobcats coexisting with the human population in a sprawling city. advertisement The Bobcats in Tucson Project The BIT was driven by a team of wildlife experts, including Cheryl Mollohan, Kerry Baldwin, Al LeCount, Ron Day, and Dave Brown. They brought over 150 years of combined experience in wildlife research, management, and education. Their
As Arizona’s population continues to grow rapidly, the state faces the challenge of building a more efficient and sustainable transportation network to accommodate its residents. From urban sprawl in Phoenix to the quieter rural areas, Arizona’s transportation infrastructure is under increasing pressure. However, through a series of forward-thinking initiatives and innovative projects, Arizona is working to address these growing demands. While enhancing safety, sustainability, and mobility for cars, cyclists, pedestrians, and public transit users alike. advertisement Past Improvements and the Challenges Ahead Over the past few decades, Arizona has made great strides in expanding and upgrading its road infrastructure. Major
As the southwestern U.S. continues to face heightened drought conditions and escalating temperatures due to climate change, a new study shows that the increase of dust storms and wind erosion in Arizona is becoming increasingly impactful and concerning. advertisement Health and Safety Wind erosion in Arizona directly impacts public health, primarily by contributing to airborne dust storms that degrade air quality. These dust storms, filled with fine particles, can worsen respiratory issues like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). For residents already suffering from lung conditions, these storms exacerbate their health problems and increase hospital visits. One of the
Fun fact: Arizona is home to over 800 native fish and wildlife species, the highest biodiversity of any inland state. If you love spotting the diverse creatures of Arizona, you’re lucky you found this article. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of must-visit locations statewide for wildlife viewing. advertisement Northern Arizona Chevelon Canyon Wildlife Area Activity: Wildlife Viewing Description: Situated in the Ponderosa Pine ecosystem of the Mogollon Rim, this area is home to a variety of species that thrive in both meadow and riparian habitats. Lamar Haines Memorial Wildlife Area Activity: Wildlife Viewing Description: This 160-acre wildlife area consists of
