GetTheFunOut

Papago is a convenient spot for an after-work ride and an easy spot for a beginner ride. It's trails are neither technical nor overly strenuous, though it is possible to seek out some areas of greater difficulty if you want to test your newly acquired skill and confidence. If you are in South Scottsdale, the Mill Ave area, or southeast Phoenix, the park is quickly accessible by car, or simply by biking the canal running down 64th Street. Park off Galvin Parkway on either the west side, or on the east side at the entrance to the Phoenix Zoo. There is also parking on McDowell road as it crests the hill, but this area is limited and is only accessible to eastbound traffic. The park extends on both sides of Galvin Parkway and is filled with a web of trails. There is no shortage of places to ride, however the ride can become boring as a significant amount of time is spent making arbitrary turns down different trails that run through the same general area. What the area lacks in...

Little Horse Trail is a convenient hike with its trail head just past the Village of Oak Creek (the first town you pass if you are coming from the I-17).  The hike is fairly easy, with gradual elevation change and solid footing throughout.  For such an obviously located hike, the parking lot was almost empty and the trail was desolate when I hiked on a Wednesday; weekends will probably see a significant increase in traffic, though people may bypass this hike opting for the Chapel of the Holy Cross just up the street or the impression that they need to be more remote for a rewarding hike. View from the end. One of the "nuns" at sunset.  Contrary to any notion that you have to go out of your way for a rewarding experience, this hike culminates with of the more beautiful views I have seen in Sedona, but has only a few enjoyable views and photo opportunities on the way due to the trail being flat and shrouded by trees.  The hike is easy enough for even novices...

Sedona's Rocks, from Jerome My friends and I have always said that the best part of living in Phoenix is that it is a great place to leave.  There are so many diverse destinations within a few hours drive that Phoenix is an ideal jumping-off point.  Jerome and Sedona are two unique stops within two hours if you take the interstate or about three and a half if you take the scenic route.  If you are unfamiliar with either town, they are each emblematic of the southwest.