Learn about animal habitats, take Tai Chi, and even walk a curated path for wellness – all these things and more are part of the programming at Gilbert's Riparian Preserve, a 110-acre urban oasis. Visitors this winter seeking to immerse themselves in the world of the Sonoran Desert and its complex ecosystems can sign up for a Naturalist tour.

The Naturalist tours, available by reservation and for a nominal fee, take guests through the preserve's trail system with an expert. The Naturalist Tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and covers a roughly one-mile walk. Guests are equipped with binoculars for impromptu bird sightings and gain insights into the flora and fauna of Arizona's unique landscape. The Riparian Preserve comprises seven ponds and an adjacent urban lake, where more than 300 species of birds have been sighted. This avian diversity enabled the Gilbert Riparian Preserve to be recognized as part of the Arizona Important Bird Area Program, a collaboration between BirdLife International and the National Audubon Society. The naturalist will also spend time identifying the plants and desert animals, as well as discussing the unique ecological value of this urban site.

Tour options also include after-sunset guided walks, where visitors are invited to explore the world of desert nocturnal animals, such as owls, bats, and scorpions. Private tours can be booked separately or as an addition to an overnight camping reservation.

To learn more about activities tailored for visitors exploring Gilbert's outdoors, visit https://www.discovergilbert.com/explore/outdoors/