What was once a parking lot among the urban sprawl of Phoenix, Arizona is now the lush animal haven of Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area. The five mile-long park along the Salt River is home to hundreds of species of birds and critters, and provides people ample access to nature right in their backyards. According to the city of Phoenix, park rangers have dozens of activities planned each season for guests at Rio Salado.
Four trailheads at Rio Salado provide people with access to at least eight miles of trails along the Salt River. You can access the trailheads from the four corners of the park, including South Central Avenue, South 7th Avenue, South 7th Street, and South 16th Street. The park maintains restrooms and interpretive stations along the route, as well as maps for hiking trails.
Opened in 2009, the Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center is in the center of Rio Salado, providing exhibits and information on the birds and other wildlife at the park, as well as a free children's play area. The center offers regular classes for children and adults, including "Beginning Birder" classes, and an "Enchanted Trails" program, to discover desert creatures during the nighttime hours. The center also offers ongoing after-school programs for youth and teens.
Since many paths of Rio Salado are paved, they're accessible to wheelchairs and bicyclists. Cycling enthusiasts take advantage of this fact to offer guided bike rides through the park on a regular basis. Guides point out native vegetation, birds, and wildlife while cruising the paths of the park. You are required to bring your own bike and helmet. Tours can be scheduled at your convenience by contacting the staff at Rio Salado.
