In the heart of the city of Phoenix, Arizona, sits the natural wonder of
South Mountain Park and Preserve. It is an oasis of mountain terrain and
desert landscapes, comprising more than ninety miles of hiking trails in
over sixteen thousand acres, easily accessible to the residents and
visitors of the fifth-largest city in the United States.
Longtime Phoenix resident and outdoor enthusiast Andrew Lenartz guides
readers through the extensive history of the park; the park's ecosystem,
with an overview of the plants, animals, landscape, and topography of
the Sonoran Desert environment; the many trails in each of the four
sections of South Mountain Park; and a variety of other outdoor
activities found within the park. Designed for all ages, the trail maps
and descriptions note access points, facilities, elevation gain, and
level of difficulty, pointing the way for all hikers to enjoy their
trek. A true southwestern treasure, this all-inclusive guide encourages
readers to discover the nature and adventure available in this massive
outdoor playground.