RV Lifestyle Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch Located in the heart of Gilbert is the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, an oasis within the town of Gilbert with seven ponds and vegetation ranging from marshland to desert. You’ll discover native plants and wildlife as you hike the more than seven km of trails through the four-hectare preserve. The preserve features an urban lake where you can fish, an observatory that hosts stargazing events, fun play areas for kids, and more. The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch provides a great opportunity for birdwatching and exploration. More than 300 species of birds have been sighted in this space since its development in 1999. This avian diversity allowed the Gilbert Riparian Preserve to be recognized as a part of the Arizona Important Bird Area Program through Birdlife International and the National Audubon Society. Paddling the Salt River Running some 300 kilometres through a spectacular desert landscape, the Salt River is one of Mesa’s finest natural treasures. In some areas, most particularly between Carrizo and Cibecue creeks, the river is used as the distinguishing boundary between the Fort Apache Reservation to the north and the Tonto National Forest to the south. No visit to Mesa would be complete without a paddle on the Salt River. The water is calm, the scenery is breathtaking and, if you’re lucky, you may just spot Mesa’s resident herd of wild horses drinking along the banks. Boyce Thompson Arboretum Experience the lush beauty of the Arizona Upland Sonoran Desert at the state’s oldest and largest botanical garden. With spectacular views of Picketpost Mountain, Boyce Thompson Arboretum is located in scenic Queen Creek Canyon, just 30 minutes from Mesa. Featuring plant collections from the world’s deserts, historic buildings and hidden gardens along the trails, the Arboretum is on the National Register of Historic Places. A haven for wildlife, it has been called “the most enchanting” Audubon Important Birding Area in Arizona. Boyce Thompson Arboretum was founded in 1924 by William Boyce Thompson, a mining magnate who understood the importance of plants as the ultimate source of our survival and well-being. That legacy continues today as the Arboretum offers tours, classes and events, bringing a wide community together in appreciation of the astounding diversity of its growing collection. Downtown Gilbert A quick jaunt around downtown Gilbert will leave any foodie satisfied. The main strip boasts a number of restaurants and shops from Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row to Joyride Taco House East. A stroll up North Gilbert Road offers culinary options from around the world: Italian, Mexican, American – you name it, Gilbert has it. Worth Pondering… Newcomers to Arizona are often struck by Desert Fever. Desert Fever is caused by the spectacular natural beauty and serenity of the area. Early symptoms include a burning desire to make plans for the next trip south. There is no apparent cure for snowbirds. CSANews | WINTER 2024 | 25
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