Take A Suspension Bridge Hike Through Boyce Thompson Arboretum, A 392-Acre Botanical Garden In Arizona
Arizona has several botanical gardens, but one, in particular, tends to fly under the radar. Boyce Thompson Arboretum is actually the largest attraction of its kind in the state, boasting nearly 4,000 plants and many different types of terrain. The gardens also feature a suspension bridge hike that leads to some truly incredible creek and canyon views.
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Founded in 1924, Boyce Thompson Arboretum is the largest and oldest botanical garden in Arizona. Nearly 4000 species of arid land plants from all over the world grow here, including one of the largest red gum Eucalyptus trees in the U.S.
A 1.5-mile loop trail meanders through the 392-acre park, leading visitors through various unique landscapes. One such exhibit is a cactus garden with over 800 types, ranging from iconic Saguaros to the tiniest little pincushions.
Springtime brings eye-popping wildflowers in every color of the rainbow. "Stop and smell the roses," so to speak, as you take in the pleasant fragrances and embrace the season of growth, vibrancy, and starting anew.
One of the neatest things about the arboretum is the striking terrain diversity you'll enjoy without leaving the main walkway. Hauntingly beautiful tree tunnels, a man-made lake, herb garden, and palm grove all effortlessly flow into each other. There are also three side trails that provide a greater challenge and educational opportunities.
At the farthest end of the park is a wooden suspension bridge that, in traditional fashion, sways precariously as you walk across. It spans a quiet, gentle creek, imparting simply gorgeous views in all directions.
Nature shows up differently each season, from brilliantly-hued cactus fruits in the summer to the most intense fall foliage you've ever laid eyes on. No matter what the time of year, rest-assured this bridge is a perfect vantage point for the scenery.
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
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