Wetlands in Arizona? They do exist, and one of the most incredible among them is hiding in the Phoenix area. The Tres Rios Wetlands is a 700-acre restoration project that is making the Salt River wild again. You definitely won’t feel like you’re in Arizona anymore when you visit this amazing place.

While not entirely natural - the project is a restoration effort by the City of Phoenix and other local authorities - the 700-acre Tres Rios Wetlands aim to return the Salt River to the condition it was in during the 1800s, before Phoenix became a major urban area.
City of Phoenix
The project creates a symbiotic relationship between the wetlands and the nearby wastewater treatment facility. Reclaimed water from the plant is pumped into the wetlands, and the plants and animals have their fill before the remainder is emptied into the river.
City of Phoenix
Visitation to Tres Rios is by permit only. You can request a permit on the City of Phoenix website, and they are valid for six months and allow unlimited visits between sunrise and sunset daily.
Google/Phoenix Wombat (#PHXWombat)

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You won't believe your eyes when you see the types of vegetation that thrive here. From reeds to lily pads to tall grasses, it looks nothing like the desert landscape we're used to.
Google/Christina Mach
Equally as incredible are all of the animals that call this lush destination home. You'll see more than 150 different species of birds, including the majestic bald eagle...
City of Phoenix
...and the adorable barn owl. Other creatures that reside in the Tres Rios Wetlands include muskrats, raccoons, skunks, coyotes, bobcats, and beavers.
City of Phoenix
This pristine natural habitat is the perfect place to go for a peaceful stroll or bike ride - and if you're an avid birder, don't leave those binoculars at home!
Google/Phoenix Wombat (#PHXWombat)

For more information about the Tres Rios Wetlands, visit the City of Phoenix website.

Have you ever visited these incredible wetlands in Arizona? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for a delicious ice cream shop where you can satisfy your sweet tooth after exploring the wetlands.

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Tres Rios Wetlands, Estrella Village, AZ 85353, USA