Explore the trails
On our trails, you’ll experience the unique and beautiful plants that thrive in some of the hottest and driest parts of the world. Walk one or all of these Sonoran Desert nature paths and hiking trails in Phoenix, and you’ll see why we’re so passionate about desert plants.
Sonoran Desert Nature Trail
Take this trail to the top for sweeping mountain views, telescopes and an organ pipe cactus forest. Then look closer to gain insight to the resilience and survival strategies of Sonoran Desert plants and animals.
Center for Desert Living Trail
Fragrant herbs, vegetable beds and shady spots to relax make this trail a delight for the senses. Come see what’s growing this season and discover tips for creating a robust, water-wise home garden.
Desert Discovery Trail
Explore the Garden’s main trail and discover the many ways desert plants from around the world have adapted to the environment. Featuring a diverse array of cactus and succulents as well as historic plant collections, this central route connects visitors to the beauty of the desert.
Harriet K. Maxwell
Desert Wildflower Trail
Stroll along this meandering trail where you’ll encounter brightly colored blooms as well as the pollinators they attract, like bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. Find out how flowers, insects and birds play an essential role in thriving desert ecosystems.
Plants & People of the
Sonoran Desert Trail
Wander through five diverse desert habitats and discover the variety of ways indigenous people have used native plants for food, fiber and shelter.
the Christensen Family Desert Oasis
Christensen Family Desert Oasis garden breaks ground this fall. Nestled between Sybil B. Harrington Cactus and Succulent Galleries, the garden was first conceptualized in the Core Trail Master Plan, along with the Lewis Desert Portal, Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust Desert Terrace Garden and the Kitchell Family Heritage Garden. Located along the Desert Discovery Loop trail, key design elements include a bridge, calming water features, seating and displays of seasonal plants. Christensen Family Desert Oasis will be an idyllic space where guests are invited to sit and linger among colorful horticultural displays and a shaded grove of trees.
Opening Spring 2024
