PUBLISHED 06/28/2005
A wide, sandy trail follows the Arizona Canal, the longest of nine canals in the Phoenix region, as it cuts through 38.6 miles of desert. "From the trail you have beautiful views of Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak," says Hart. "But be prepared for the heat--even at dusk, temperatures hover around 90 degrees and there's little shade."
The Salt River Project Canal Network is a system of nine canals in the Phoenix region. All of the canals, which vary in length from 38.6 miles to 3.4 miles, are lined with pedestrian trails, totaling 170 miles of running, walking, and bicycling paths. For maps of each canal and more information on their history go to www.srpnet.com/water/canals/
From the canals it's easy for runners to connect with any of Phoenix's parks, the largest of which is the 16,000 acre South Mountain Park Preserve. Runners can also find locals on the 3.5 mile loop through Pinnacle Peak Park. Runners looking for an unbeatable hill workout should try the Echo Canyon Recreation Area, where the Summit Trail leads hikers and runners to the top of Camelback Mountain. The 1.2-mile trail gains 1,200 feet in elevation. For more information on Phoenix parks go to phoenix.gov
Phoenix is a great city for running as long as runners take precautions with the heat. Be sure to avoid running during the hottest parts of the day, always bring water, and wear sunscreen.
