The Best Parks in Arizona to Enjoy the Fall Season
Crisp fall days are just around the corner, at least that’s what our wishful thinking is telling us. And the escape from the summer heat lends itself to embarking on autumn adventure from sun up till sundown. And we have some of the best parks in Phoenix to help you take advantage of the season.
Papago Park in Phoenix, AZ
625 N. Galvin Parkway
Only 10 minutes from downtown Phoenix, Papago Park has no shortage of options to keep your days full of fall fun! You can take a trip to the Phoenix Zoo or meander through the Desert Botanical Garden. There is also an extensive trail network through the Sonoran Desert Habitat for those looking for a heart-pumping hike. These smooth, easy trials have very little elevation making them perfect for a family day or a great place to practice mountain biking skills. With so many activities to choose from, Papago Park is a must-visit this fall!
Granada Park in Phoenix, AZ
6505 North 20th Street
With long trails, a pristine lake, and stunning views, Granada Park is a great place to kick back and enjoy the changing seasons. Here you can find something for everyone - a large playground right on the lake, multi-purpose fields for playing sports, and long trails perfect for bike riding. Don’t let your dog miss out on the fun either. Pups are permitted to walk along the lake or into the grassy fields - just remember to keep them leashed!
South Mountain Park in Phoenix, AZ
10919 S. Central Avenue
Located on the Southern edge of Phoenix, South Mountain Park has over 51 miles of trails to explore so this is definitely a spot you won’t get sick of. From the main entrance you can drive 5.5 miles up Summit Road to Dobbins Lookout or continue to the Gila Lookout for some epic views of the fall foliage. If hiking the trails is more your style, consider a quiet trek on the fourth Sunday of the month for “Silent Sundays” when motor vehicles don’t have access to any part of the trails.
Pinnacle Peak Park in Scottsdale, AZ
26802 N. 102nd Way
Pinnacle Peak Park is the place to go for adrenaline junkies who want to get their climb on! Rock climbing is permitted in three different locations for climbers who have the proper gear. And if climbing isn’t your thing, follow the trail for an enjoyable hike that will become a fall favorite for those in the Northeast Valley. This park is typically cool in the morning and has plenty of shade by the late autumn afternoon if the summer temperatures are lingering a little longer than we’d like.
Hance Dog Park in Phoenix, AZ
323 W. Culver Street
The dog days of summer may be behind us, but that doesn’t mean the fun ends for our furry friends! Actually, it’s only just begun! Hance Dog Park is one of the best dog parks in the city to unleash your pup. There are two acres to play and a shaded area with water access. The park is well maintained and clean so you and your dog are sure to frequent this spot well into the winter months!
Rio Vista Community Park in Peoria, AZ
8866 W. Thunderbird Road
The fleeting days of fall are slipping and Rio Vista Community Park has everything to fulfill a park-goer’s dreams this season. Recreational Center? Got it. Multi-purpose fields? Lace up your sneakers. Fishing in the lake? Cast those poles. Softball fields and sanded volleyball courts? Come play. Playground and Tot Lot? See you there!
These are arguably the best months of the year in Arizona so it’s time to slip on those sneakers or hiking boots and hit one of Arizona’s best parks!
