By Lacey Pfalz
From TravelPulse
Gilbert, Arizona is just southeast of Phoenix and offers a wide variety of attractions, but one of its biggest draws is also one of its most natural: the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch.
The preserve was created for water management and wildlife preservation, as well as for the education and recreation of people. It’s classified by the National Audubon Society as an important bird area, with 298 different species calling the preserve their home.
The Riparian Preserve is easy to access and enjoy, with 4.5 miles of trails both paved and unpaved for walking, biking, hiking or horseback riding. Plus, it’s pet-friendly, so you can bring your beloved pooch along, as long as it’s cool enough for them. (Tip: If you’re visiting Gilbert during the summer, you’ll want to visit the preserve in the early morning or later at night to avoid dangerous levels of heat.)…