New Homes Today Magazine
Affordable Outdoor Fun
Phoenix Parks and Recreation Offers Scores of Amenities
By David Urbinato
In many American cities, "trail" networks are paved pathways connecting city parks, neighborhoods and other areas; in Phoenix, however, trails mean something entirely different. The city is home to a vast preserve of more than 32,000 acres of Sonoran Desert. More than 150 miles of trails wind through this vast system.
Mountain bikers, hikers, trail runners, horseback riders, and families have all integrated the desert into their everyday lives. It's a regular workout and fitness location for many, and parents use the preserves to teach children the wonders of the Sonoran Desert.
The preserve system is the heart of the outdoor lifestyle in the country's fifth largest city, and people choose homes and neighborhoods based on proximity to these amenities. Phoenix is busily purchasing land in the northern part of the city for the latest addition to its preserve system.
In addition to the preserves, the city has a large network of traditional city parks--220 in all--that offer playgrounds, open green space, walking paths and a network of community and recreation centers. Department staff members offer hundreds of general interest classes as well as sports programs. All are affordable ways for residents to be introduced to everything from team sports to fine arts to dance and fitness.
City pools offer a low-cost way to cool off in the hot summer months, while lifeguards teach hundreds of kids to swim each summer in our affordable instructional classes.
The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department also operates five championship and three nine-hole golf courses that offer high-quality play at reasonable prices. Locals often take advantage of hot summer months to get great deals on golf courses without the usual crowds.
Comprehensive information is available online at phoenix.gov/parks.
David Urbinato, APR, is Public Information Officer for Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department.
