Did you know that Glendale has 40 miles of trails within city limits? You may know about the beautifully-preserved Thunderbird Conservation Park (TCP), which is a very popular destination for hikers in the Valley. But in addition to that, the linear parks in Glendale are a wonderful amenity that many have not discovered yet. In addition to a bridle path on 51st Avenue that leads to TCP, the Skunk Creek, Thunderbird Paseo, Grand Canal and New River linear parks run throughout the city for all to enjoy. Beautiful flora and fauna greet pedestrians, bicyclists, in-line skaters and equestrians. Check out this more on the trails page. (Link to: www.glendaleaz.com/parksandrecreation/trails.) TRAILSMAP_000 Take a hike! Tips for the best hiking experience
  •  Weather: Arizona’s dry heat can be deceiving. Hike when it’s cooler, usually early mornings and evenings before sundown.
  • Trail rating: Know your ability level. All of our trails are rated "easy,” except for Thunderbird Conservation Park trails, which vary. Check out the Trail Rating Guide online to get the scoop.
  • Dress appropriately: Wear proper shoes, clothing, hat and sunscreen
  • Bring water: Hydrate before you go. Have plenty of water — more than you think you need.
  • Keep in contact: Carry a mobile phone.
  • Stick to the trail: Enjoy the Sonoran Desert’s beautiful and undeveloped landscape, but stay on designated trails.
  • Pet Safety: It’s a safe bet to assume any temperature over 90 degrees is too hot for dogs to be out hiking.
  • Bring binoculars: Most of our trails is inhabited by some creatures at you might want to check out.  TCP even has three points along the trail to stop and watch some wildlife. Check out a video of the wildlife viewing blinds online at https://youtu.be/4vXpnLZ5kGU

 [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3-dG24VIMw]

Do you love enjoying the beautiful Arizona landscape as much as we do? To keep the city’s trails beautiful, we need help from volunteers to clean and maintain the washes and pathways. You can help! Your workplace, family, friends, or any group can Adopt a Trail. Log on to www.glendaleaz.com/parksandrecreation/adoptatrail.cfm, or call 623-930-2663.   Written by guest blogger: Kim Larson