Off The Grid: 5 Reasons to Visit Phoenix’s Sunny Wilderness
Photos courtesy of Visit Mesa
Heading to the desert might sound underwhelming to some adventurers or vacationers. After all, there are usually no large bodies of water, inviting mountains or interesting ecology there. At least on the surface. The sunny wilderness of Greater Phoenix, however, is a glaring exception to this common misconception. There you’ll find all three, especially near the eastern side of mountainous Mesa. And if you challenge your preconceptions further still, you’ll also find world-class golf, rejuvenating resorts, and plenty of fun on wheels.
On a short (and cheap) flight from Allegiant, a friend and I recently put the area to the test. This is what I learned:
Sonoran Desert is the Star of the Show
Although much more barren than other outdoors, I don’t ever think I’ve explored a more personal landscape. By that I’m referring to the fascinating Saguaro (pronounced “sa-wah-ro”) cacti that fill the area (pictured). Unlike towering trees that remain out of reach, these 15-40 foot tall plants watch over you like silent guardians wherever you go. I got up close and personal with them in Tonto National Forest, Usery Mountain Park and Saguaro Lake. They, along with the Dr. Suess-like Ocotillo trees and Cholla bushes, left an indelible impression on me.
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