If you ask any Arizonan their favorite past time, one of the most common responses you will hear is hiking. With perfect winters and beautiful springtime temperatures, more and more locals break out of their summer hibernation from the heat and make their way to the hiking trails. One of the most popular parks in Glendale, Arizona is Thunderbird Conservation Park.
Thunderbird Conservation Park (Thunderbird Park to the locals and as it is known on social media) is perfect for all levels of hikers. 8 different trails
If you are more into hiking for the social media likes, you’re in luck! With many easy trails, it’s easy to model for a photoshoot with your furry friend. If you have seen Thunderbird Park on social media, you might recognize it with the American Flag that sits so proudly on top of the Arrowhead Point trail.
That American Flag at the high point of Arrowhead Point trail was originally placed on top of the trail by a frequent hiker and local citizen. The American Flag became such an icon for the trail that in April 2018, Glendale City Council approved a permanent American Flag that will fly proudly above the desert scenery.
This past Veteran’s Day, the city of Glendale held a ceremony to dedicate the installation of the permanent flagpole. During the ceremony the flag that now stands tall at the Arrowhead Point trail was passed up from the bottom of the trail to the top hand over hand by spectators and military personals. Veterans, current active duty service members, and civilians all coming together to honor this great nation – it was truly a site to be seen as the flag was handed over and when it got to the top of the trail, where it will now reside for generations to come. The new flag is also placed at the highest elevation point in the city of Glendale.
When hiking always remember to bring plenty of water, sunscreen and appropriate hiking attire. If you bring your furry friends, please keep their safety in mind by keeping your pets hydrated and hiking in appropriate weather – it is against the law to hike with your pets when temperatures reach 100 degrees or hotter. Please hike responsibly.
Thunderbird Mountain Conservation Park prides itself in its family friendly hiking trail, patriotism and desert scenery. There is a sense of community these trails have that just makes you feel as if you are hiking in a small town. With friendly hikers and beautiful views, you might even make a friend or two! If you are looking for a fun trail to take your family to, look no further than Thunderbird Mountain Conservation Park!