To start the new year and enjoy the last of my time away from work, we’ve been doing a lot of hiking with the dog. Today was no exception and we spent time at the San Tan Regional park. First, photos and then, write-up.

©M McCown All rights reserved.

©M McCown All rights reserved.

©M McCown All rights reserved.

©M McCown All rights reserved.

It was a lovely day with warmer temperatures and surprisingly few people, so off we went to explore some new trails. Here is what the Maricopa County website has to say: San Tan Mountain Regional Park consists of over 10,000 acres, the southeast Valley park and is a fine example of the lower Sonoran Desert. The park ranges in elevation from about 1,400 feet to over 2,500 feet. Goldmine Mountain is located in the northern area, with a spectacular San Tan Mountain escarpment in the southern portion of the park. The vegetation changes from creosote flats to dense saguaro forest. Various types of wildlife may be observed, including reptiles, birds, and mammals.

What I have to say is that this is a place that will appeal to lots of different fitness levels. There are ample flat trails and there are very challenging steep trails, so read the map and get advice from the entrance book attendant. When you go be sure to take water, sunscreen, more water, and a hat. There is very little shade and most of it found beneath scrubby brush. This place gets two thumbs up for variety of routes, well-kept facilities and gorgeous natural beauty. The entry fee is $6 and having been a few times, you can tell it is put to good use.

One of my goals for 2017 is to enjoy more local sightseeing opportunities. I love to travel and am quite neglectful about taking advantage of all Arizona has to offer. Today was a step in the right direction! Two days down, 363 days to go!