Full moon rising over mountains

Friday, September 29: Join me for a spectacular sunset and full moon hike in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve

Come enjoy a challenging hike to a scenic mountain top for views of a stunning sunset and full moon rise.

Saturday, September 9: Join me for a free sunset hike in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve

Come enjoy a moderate hike to a scenic mountain top for views of a stunning sunset and the Valley of the Sun.

Fountain Hills Botanical Garden

Explore the landscape at Fountain Hills Desert Sonoran Botanical Garden and expand your knowledge of Arizona plants and geology

A short visit to the Desert Sonoran Botanical Garden can provide you a free crash course in the plants and landscape that makes Arizona so unique.

Fountain Hills Lake Overlook Trail leads you through a beautiful desert landscape to this world-famous fountain

If you’re looking for an adventurous way to take in the sights of Fountain Hills, I suggest you set foot on the scenic 2-mile Lake Overlook Trail Loop.

Mature Saguaro cactuses stand bold and tall in the snow-covered desert

Early March storm leaves a blanket of snow on the Sonoran Desert of Arizona

On the night of March 1, 2023 a powerful winter storm blew through Arizona and left a blanket of snow on the Sonoran Desert.

A look back at this year’s Arizona Wonders of the Week

Over the last year, I’ve featured the 50 must-see natural wonders highlighted in Arizona Bucket List Adventure Guide & Journal. … More

Mushroom shaped boulder in a sandy creekbed

See which AZ Wonders hidden gem of a hike got featured on Redfin.com

When the blog editor for redfin.com asked me about hidden gem hiking trails in Phoenix. this one came to mind immediately.

Willow Beach kayak launch site

Here’s a rundown of the best places to kayak in Arizona

Arizona is well-known for its desert landscape and hiking trails, but it also offers some world-class kayaking opportunities.

creosoted plant with flowers on its branches

Humble creosote bush produces a fragrant aroma when it rains in Arizona’s Valley of the Sun

The humble creosote bush is the plant responsible for the desert rain aroma that some fragrance makers try to replicate.

Arizona Bucket List new cover

Arizona Bucket List Adventure Guide & Journal takes you to 50 must-see natural wonders in the Grand Canyon state

Great book for any Arizona explorer. Get tips on travel, planning and permits for the most amazing places to explore in Arizona.

ruins of old cabin

This mellow hike to Lost Ranch ruins in Phoenix South Mountain Park is just right

Not too easy; not too hard: At three miles in length, the relatively short and moderately-pitched trail to Lost Ranch is just right.