Multicity Metro-area situated in 'Valley of the Sun' and Arizona largest City. For outdoors explorer not familiar with the area appeal might not be initially apparent. But hiking opportunities are abound - from 'Urban' hikes to (Iconic) Camelback Mountain or Sunrise Peak to Lost Dutchman State Park and remote Superstition Mountains Wilderness east of Mesa/Apache Junction. There is also plenty to see and enjoy in City itself. Golfing and excellent shopping/restaurants are examples, while famous Papago Park (Phoenix Zoo and Botanical Garden) is a must see. For longer drive out of town I'd recommend visit to Roosevelt Lake, featuring longest two-lane, single-span, steel-arch bridge in North America, Tonto Cliff Dwellings and outstanding photography opportunities. At one point it was possible to drive via Historic Apache Trail, but it has been closed in 2019 due to erosion past Tortilla Flat; quickest way is now Hwy 97 NE then SR 188 to Roosevelt (~2.5hr one way).
Phoenix is quite popular with Canadian Snowbirds. On my visits I always stayed in Scottsdale Park Suites - furnished and reasonably priced short term condo rentals - with excellent location for attractions like Scottsdale Old Town, Papago Park, Fashion Mall as well as quick Freeway access for out-of-town drives. Phoenix is also known for brutal summer heat waves - well over 40 degree Celsius is June - September norm. I read somewhere, with current climate change shifts due to Global Warming it will become uninhabitable within 50 years. Needless to say optimal time for visit are winter months.
Gallery showcases some of nicer shots I took over the years with description giving more details, including links to Hiking Trip Reports.
