Hiking isn't the only way to have an outdoor family adventure - there's a great Bike Path not too far from where you live to explore!
Did you know there's a 300+ mile network of connecting dedicated bike paths that circle and cross the Phoenix metro area? The section most convenient to us is the New River Trail. It's open to horses and pedestrians but the most common users are bicyclists. The trail/bike path is well maintained, fully paved, level for the most part and fairly scenic, all of which make it a good option for families looking to enjoy the outdoors.
The New River Bike Path can be accessed in a number of places but the most kid friendly access is at Rio Vista Community Park near P83. (Be forewarned, that's a great park and you might not even get to the bike ride you are having so much fun exploring and playing there.) Skunk Trail, another nice bike path also starts near there. Use the restrooms at the park, and off you go on your biking adventure together!
A map of the entire New River Trail is here: MAP
Another convenient access point is off of Peoria near the 101, right next to a restaurant called Mercers. Park in the large lot there and then for better scenery, bike to the north (left) on the trail. Head out for your family ride and when you return, secure the bikes and enjoy a meal together at Mercers. They are a very popular and delicious neighborhood coffee shop and the kids will most definitely find something they like on the menu. Yummy fact the kids will surely appreciate: On Tuesdays, Mercers serves ice cream for free with every meal! (at least as of now, March 2025)
Know Before You Go
- While the trail/bike path is well maintained, there are no drinking fountains along the way so be sure to pack your own water!
- At each intersection with a major street, there is an underpass so you never have to worry about crossing streets with the kids in tow. It's a really nice safety feature.
- The pathway sometimes actually crosses the river bed area so don't go just after it has rained! Normally it's not an issue but right after a rainstorm the riverbed will be full of rushing water and be unsafe to cross. (If you start to go regularly, you'll learn which parts are safe and enjoyable even if the river is full of water.)
Have fun!
