Looking for a tucked away spot that most people don’t even know exists? Sometimes it can be tough to find those places but when you do, it’s well worth the effort. Every town and city have their own locals-only places that manage to remain hidden away from tourists and, frankly, I like it that way. But today we’re going to take a look at one spot that looks like an average park from far away but is actually a riparian preserve for migratory animals right in the middle of a Phoenix suburb. That place is Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert.

A riparian preserve in Gilbert? Yup! It has been sitting at the southeast corner of Greenfield and Guadalupe Roads since 1999, covering 110 acres (or about ¼ of a city block).
Eileen Kane/Flickr
The preserve consists of seven ponds and plenty of towering trees, making it a travel destination for about 200 different species of birds and other little animals that flock to riparian areas.
Martin Ely/Flickr
On an average day, you’ll find dozens of birds eating, bathing, and doing other bird things around here.
Brent Bristol/Flickr

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You'll find plenty of other animals as well, including turtles and the lakes stocked with fish.
Carla Kishinami/Flickr
For residents and visitors, it makes a nice area for a day walk with paths winding around the ponds for a beautiful view of the preserve. Most of the trail is composed of packed dirt but you will find a portion that is concrete like what you see below.
Robin J Phillips/Flickr
In addition to the numerous animals, the paths, and the scenery, you’ll also find an observatory, a botanical garden, and a “Dino Dig” spot for the kids to learn a little about paleontology.
David Leicken/Flickr
Free Family Walks are offered on the third Saturday of each month from 8am to 1pm between October and April.

Details: Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is located at 2757 East Guadalupe Road in Gilbert. The habitat area is open from dawn until dusk.

Want to check out some more hidden places around the state? You’ll want to read our article 8 Amazing Arizona Secrets You Never Knew Existed!

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