Horse lovers unite
Phoenix is home to a 90-acre equestrian facility that is open for public use year-round. Located at the Reach 11 Recreation Area, the Arizona Horse Lovers Park (AZHLP) is managed by the City of Phoenix Parks Department at 19224 N. Tatum Blvd.
The park runs, just north of Bell Road, east and west along the north side of the CAP canal, between Cave Creek and Scottsdale roads. It offers 18 miles of multi-use trails that meander through mesquite, palo verde, acacia, hackberry, desert broom and ironwood trees. You’ll also see gambel’s quail, morning doves, cottontail rabbits, coyotes and javelina.
It’s a true desert habitat, and a place where you can bring your horse to practice cutting and roping in the arenas, or just ride; however, due to construction of an additional sports complex, the trails from 32nd Street to Cave Creek are closed at this time.
The city works with the Scottsdale Saddle Club to offer free barrel clinics and pole bending clinics, and also schedules day and evening hikes through the desert.
For information about park hours, special events, educational clinics, rental and trail information, call 602-534-4656.
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