Articles by Rambling Ranger
Cave Creek and Carefree: A Day Trip for Outdoor Lovers
Thirty miles north of Phoenix, the desert gives way to saguaro forests and one of Arizona's most interesting small-town corridors.
April 7, 2026
Picnic Spots in Greater Phoenix Worth Seeking Out
The Valley has more genuinely good picnic destinations than most residents use.
April 7, 2026
Desert Wildflower Season: When and Where to See It
Arizona's superbloom is among nature's most spectacular shows. Here's how to catch it.
April 7, 2026
Fishing Near Phoenix: Where to Drop a Line
The Valley's lakes and rivers offer more fishing variety than most residents realize.
April 7, 2026
The Apache Trail: One of Arizona's Great Scenic Drives
Sixty-two miles of desert canyon, two lakes, and a ghost town. This is what Arizona looks like.
April 7, 2026
Stargazing Near Phoenix: Dark Sky Sites Worth the Drive
Phoenix's light dome is substantial, but within an hour's drive, Arizona's night sky opens up.
April 7, 2026
Mountain Biking the McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Scottsdale's 30,000-acre desert preserve is world-class mountain bike terrain. Here's how to ride it.
April 7, 2026
Birdwatching in the Valley: Phoenix's Best Hidden Spots
The Sonoran Desert supports an extraordinary variety of birds. Here's where to find them.
April 7, 2026
South Mountain Preserve: Everything You Need for a Perfect Morning
America's largest municipal park is in your backyard. Here's how to use it well.
April 7, 2026
Five Desert Hikes Within 30 Minutes of Downtown Phoenix
You don't need to leave the metro to find proper wilderness. These trails deliver.
April 7, 2026