Southeast Arizona is well-known for the vastness of its deserts, so the fact that the area is actually full of lush, marshy landscapes might come as a shock to some. Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is a sprawling, 110-acre park with wildlife, trails, and a boardwalk that provides some of the best views around. Take a look:

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is a 110-acre wetland and wildlife sanctuary in Gilbert.
AllTrails/Zaid Fadul
It features a 1.9-mile hiking trail with seven different ponds, a recreational fishing lake, overnight campsites, and so much more.
Water Ranch Trail is a rugged lakeside path leading through brush so thick, it hangs overhead to create a tree tunnel that envelops you in its warm embrace.
AllTrails/Jessika Bracey
Along the way, various benches let you stop and take in the scenery for a little while.
AllTrails/K J
There are also bike racks for cycling enthusiasts to park and catch their breath, simultaneously enjoying the views.

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Despite the fact that Gilbert is a large city, you can practically hear a pin drop out here.
AllTrails/Zaid Fadul
You won't hear car horns and sirens breaking the silence, but rather the occasional croak of a frog or cheerfully chirping bird. Talk about peaceful!
A floating boardwalk stretches across the water, lined with cattails and several other unique plants.
AllTrails/Ale Kay
It's the perfect viewing platform to watch an iconic Arizona sunset from.
TripAdvisor/diangeltravel
Add a little romantic flair to the evening by bringing along your special someone.
Address: 2757 East Guadalupe Road, Gilbert, AZ 85234
Google Maps
Park hours are 5:30 a.m. until 10 p.m. seven days a week.

Visit the AllTrails page to learn more.

Have you ever hiked at Riparian Preserve? What’s your favorite trail with a boardwalk in Arizona? Let us know!

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Riparian Preserve Trail, Gilbert, AZ 85234, USA