SONORAN STEPS
Garden Hours
October 11- May 10
Monday-Wednesday : 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Thursday -Sunday: – 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
7 a.m. Members-only Sundays and Wednesdays
A Walking Adventure at Desert Botanical Garden. If you’re chasing your daily step goal and craving a dose of desert beauty, the Garden is your perfect playground. With five distinct trails winding through 55 acres of Sonoran splendor, it’s surprisingly easy to rack up 10,000 steps.
Start your journey at the Desert Discovery Loop Trail, the Garden’s central trail. This ⅓-mile loop is paved, shaded and packed with iconic desert plants like towering saguaros and blooming agaves. Do a couple laps here to warm up and soak in the desert vibes.
Trail-Hopping for Steps
Next, branch out to the Plants & People of the Sonoran Desert Loop. This trail is a cultural deep dive into how Indigenous communities have lived in harmony with the desert for centuries. It’s a bit longer and more rugged and perfect for adding variety to your walk.
Then head to the Sonoran Desert Nature Loop Trail, where you’ll climb to a scenic overlook with sweeping views of the Papago Buttes. It’s a short but heart-pumping incline that rewards you with a photo-worthy panorama.
Don’t skip the Center for Desert Living Trail, a quieter path that showcases sustainable gardening and desert landscaping. It’s a great spot to slow down, breathe deep, and appreciate the desert’s resilience.
Finally, stroll through the Harriet K. Maxwell Desert Wildflower Loop Trail, especially in spring when the blooms go wild. Even in cooler months, the textures and colors of desert flora are endlessly captivating.
Track It, Feel It
By the time you’ve explored all five trails, plus a few detours to admire Framerate: Desert Pulse, hummingbirds and shady benches you’ll be well on your way to 10,000 steps.
Pro Tips!
- Go early or late to beat the heat and catch golden hour light.
- Wear comfy shoes
- Bring water and refill at hydration stations.
- Use a step tracker or fitness app to stay motivated.
