My husband and I came here on a Sunday morning to do some bird watching. We spent about 5 hours…read morehere and could have spent longer if we weren't hungry for lunch. The preserve is well maintained and has plenty of benches and shade throughout. We were able to see a variety of birds. The parking lot had more cars than what seemed people in the preserve- so it doesn't feel crowded at all. The only downside is you do hear a lot of traffic noise especially in certain areas. We will definitely be back!

This is one of my favorite places in Maricopa County to come to be with nature and do some birding,…read moreand get in a nice walk. I have been birding for the past 5 years, and I have found this activity to be very relaxing but also at the same time really helps with improving pattern recognition, and it's a fun hobby! We came here on a Sunday morning around 8:30 am. Ample parking available and $5/entry, and since it is now summer here in Phoenix, the preserve closes at 4pm. I noticed that all the bad reviews came down to people either not reading clearly hours of operation or wanted to bring their dogs in (which is not allowed and states it on their website) or people couldn't seem to get good photos. I have been here multiple times, and each time I am here, I've loved coming here. The Palm Lake trail is nicely shaded, so you get some reprieve from our warm and sunny weather. I've been here for organized birding walks, and they offer other activities also, just check on their website. When we came this time, I renewed my annual Maricopa Parks annual pass, which is $85. Shockingly, this is more than the US National Parks Service annual pass. I didn't make too much a fuss about it as the money goes towards taking care of these parks that I love so much. Definitely come check this place out and don't forget your binoculars!

This trail area just north of Wickenburg is an undiscovered gem for winter to spring hiking. You…read morewill need a high clearance vehicle for the last 1.5 miles which may be why it is less travelled. Sophie's Flat is a 6 mile loop trail that is mostly flat though you will work your legs hiking across the first mile of the trail through the sandy wash. High top boots are recommended to keep the sand out of your socks. If you do the loop counter clockwise, you will start on trail A though the wash which is a geologists dream with a variety of veined granite, some with iron nodules and hunks of red jasper. As you walk out of the wash, views of the surrounding hills covered with cholla, ocotillos and saguaros appear and volcanic outcrops are also visible. On the entire loop we only ran into one other small group of hikers and this was at prime time on a Sunday in February. ATVs and horses will likely be in the area but the hiking trail is separate from the ATV path, though you will cross the path twice. I would highly recommend this trail during spring wildflower season or later in April on a cool day when the cactus are flowering.

Staying at this dude ranch truly felt like coming home to family. From the moment we arrived, the…read morestaff welcomed us with genuine kindness and treated us as if we'd been part of the ranch for years. The ranch itself is a treasure--old and full of character, with history dating back to the 1940s. I loved wandering through the original buildings, admiring the authentic architecture and décor, and flipping through the photo albums filled with memories from decades past. The team here is absolutely outstanding. The cooks, Jesse and her husband Jeff, made every meal feel like it came straight from a family kitchen--comforting, delicious, and made with care. In the front office, Lisa was friendly, organized, and always ready with a smile or helpful suggestion. And the wranglers, Wendall and Ritch, were simply the best I've ever had the pleasure of riding with. Their knowledge, patience, and humor made every ride unforgettable, and Wendall's personality in particular was a highlight of the entire stay. Being tucked away in Wickenburg--the roping capital--meant that daily roping competitions were part of the experience, adding excitement and authentic cowboy culture to each day. The trail rides were scenic and peaceful, offering a perfect way to soak in the Southwest landscape. On top of everything else, the ranch doubles as a stunning venue for weddings and corporate events. With its history, charm, and warm-hearted staff, it's hard to imagine a more perfect setting. If you're looking for a genuine dude ranch experience filled with heart, history, and unforgettable people, this is the place.

My friends Danielle & Garrett had their wedding here & Garrett used to work here as well. Beautiful…read moreplace for a wedding & since it was an "unplugged" wedding, I wasn't able to get a photo of the scenic beauty & spot where the wedding took place. It was quite a drive up to the ceremony area. 4 wheel drive vehicles only recommended just for that. We had an amazing dinner cooked/catered from the Flying E staff. Everything was so delicious: steak, salad, baked potatoes, corn, rolls, and there were plenty of drink options & hors d'ouvres before the meal. Funfetti & chocolate cupcakes, white cake, & carrot cake were the dessert options. There was dancing, cornhole to play, S'mores to make, and a log coaster branding station. This is a great place for weddings. Once it gets dark, it's hard to see to get out and it gets dusty but if you like a western theme, this is definitely your place!

Great workout with 360 views at the top and lush cactus. This hike is 2 miles each way and is very…read moregradual for the first mile as it winds up and down the desert and through a few washes. There were no wildflowers despite it being late March with some rain the week prior, but there were seas of teddy bear cholla, ocotillos that were starting to sprout their showy red blooms, and healthy saguaros. I think this would be fantastic in mid April when the cactus flower. The upper half of the hike is the thigh burner as you pick your way up the rocky, steep slope. Good hiking boots are required to keep your grip, especially on the way down. If you normally hike with poles, you will find that they are not useful in the upper half due to the rocks and narrow path, also I often use my hands to assist with climbing the rocks. Gloves are helpful for keeping your hands safe and improving your grip, though not necessary. The views at the saddle are endless. If you want to go to the top of the peak, be ware as it is treacherous.

4.2 mile, 1302 foot gain out and back hike with optional loop return. Short, challenging hike,…read moreespecially if you rock climb to the peak. Pit toilet at trailhead. Some trail signs. Nice views from saddle if you stop there versus climbing to peak.

Great experience! Our guide Bob was so informative and fun…read more You can't ask for better scenery!

Wrangler Bill was great. He educated me about the people, culture, history, flora and fauna in the…read morearea. It was beautiful. My horse was super chill and easy to ride. I had a great time!

This is OPEN! Just went to visit Arcosanti with a friend that came to town and what a cool…read moreexperience. You have to schedule a tour, self guided are not allowed. The tour guide Joseph was so kind and full of energy. The video you watch when you get there is a very heart felt explanation of the passion to continue this community. They own 800 acres and the property is built on 20 acres, it was built between 1971-1975 for the main spaces that are shared. 45 people live there but could range to 80. They show how the products and structure are made. I had no clue about silk casts and loved the hands on understanding and history. They have concerts, events, gatherings. Etc at the amphitheater. Check out the website. The cafe is closed. You can stay as a hotel guest overnight. They offer apprenticeship also.

I'm not sure why the Yelp page states Arcosanti is closed. We were just there and is open and…read moreoperating. Clearly what the original architect had in mind many years ago never came to fruition as it really hasn't changed in years. Is appears to be a small artist community but we didn't see anything going on at the moment so couldn't tell if it id still active or they make everything south in Scottsdale at Cosanti. There is a gift shop where you can watch a brief video on the history and learn about their wind chime creations. Personally I've received many of the wind chimes over the last 20 years for housewarmings or Christmas gifts. Each is unique. The greeter in the gift shop was friendly and stated there is a tour available as well. We didn't have time for the tour but purchased a couple of small gifts. He suggested visiting the Scottsdale location as well which is called Cosanti. I had no idea it was located in Scott's well. Will check it out.

My family and I just completed our second stay here. Twice we have rented out the guest house and…read morewe will definitely be back. I absolutely love this place, its away from the city (which we are from Phx), the weather is cooler, and the scenery is beautiful. The owners Ella and Mike are super down to earth and kind. When you rent the guest house, they provide you with farm fresh eggs, bread, bacon, orange juice; basic breakfast food. So if you come multiple days you do need to bring own food and cook yourself but it's not bad at all. The house is filled with all cooking utensils and its clean. They also have an outdoor kitchen right next to the house which is super cool and glows with lights at night time. The best part about this place is the beautiful lake nearby that you can easily spend an entire day at, either swimming, fishing, boating. It's really just amazing and I highly reccomend.

Great overnight camping and/or day spot for the whole family. Very welcoming hosts, a couple clean…read morebathrooms, nice large place to swim (no lifeguard) and kids love to explore all the critters that call the ranch home. Cell phone reception not great.. make sure you have good directions for you and friends before hand.

I stayed here 25 years ago and was traveling to AZ for work and thought... I should see if they…read moreare stilll open. The best part about this guest ranch is that it is small, intimate, historic with a rich history where everyone will know your name. Not a mega resort! The rooms are modest but decorated with western art and quite comfortable. The bathrooms have been be recently updated. Ken - ranch manager will greet you with a genuine smile and treat you like famIly. The food served family style is very good and quite filling. I signed up for the American Plan that included 2 rides a day, 3 meals and your room. NOTE-- rides are at 9 am and 2 pm. Plan you arrival and departures to take full advantage of the rides. The horses are in great condition and the wranglers will pair you with a mount that fits your skill level. Special call out to head wrangler - Bart who made sure our rides were all that I expected and more!

Wonderful new manager and staff. They have new owners who are working to keep the old west alive. I…read morelove to ride and I do wish they offer more time in the saddle but the 4 rides I took were great. Wrangler(Jason?) was interesting, polite and since I was the only one on each of the rides we covered a lot of territory. Room was clean and decor was authentic western. Stables and tack room where neat and lodge,dinning rooms where clean. Good signage when you get off the main road to find the office. Fun activities such as Archery, target and skeet shooting, swimming,games , cattle and cards. No TV which is refreshing. This way you get to really talk to guest and staff or not. Cool town of Wickenburg 10 minutes away. Happy hour everyday at the ranch before dinner with nice cheeses and food. Come here for the riding cuz it's some of the best especially after a good rain.

I can't say enough good things about this park! There was some confusion as to where I had a…read morereservation. Turned out I had made it at Horspitality. I had even prepaid When we went there at about 5:15 it was closed. I called the evening number that was posted at the office. I was treated very badly by the owner. I have posted a bad review for them. We returned to this park and even though they were closed, the on site manager came and was very accommodating. She even gave us a discount for all of our trouble. i did not get her name but thank you for your kindness.

I would rate this park at a 4.5 out of five. Great location near everything in Wickenburg, AZ. We…read moregot a back-in site next to the river with lots of cottonwoods and willows that provide shade in the mid-afternoon through sunset. We also have a wonderful view of the river and the sunsets. Large sites everywhere. The only negative is the WiFi connectivity; fair to poor at best. I would highly recommend getting a riverside site if possible. Extremely nice park and staff. The rate was $395.00 for the week. A fair rate for this area. Thirty minutes to Surprise; 40-45 minutes to Phoenix. Lots of good food for eating out. Several fuel stations nearby.

Very friendly customer service. Excellent equipment, high quality & new, staff prioritized safety…read more Absolute 10 out of 10 adventure into gorgeous AZ scenery. Tons of photo opportunities. We had all ages in our group & everyone had a great time. We can't wait to do this again.

Fantastic time with Steve and his wife! Nice to see a lot of scenic views plus gold and turquoise…read moremine. Kids were here from Nebraska visiting so was a fun outing to go on. Highly recommend this tour! Very personal and friendly time. Hope to enjoy another trip in the future!