Rio Salado Habitat Restoration: Reviving Nature’s Oasis

The Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Project in Phoenix was established to restore habitats historically associated with the Salt River. This nearly 600-acre area stretches along five miles of the Salt River, from 19th Avenue to 16th Street, just south of downtown Phoenix.

It represents an ongoing effort to revive native wetland and riparian habitats of the Salt River, transforming a former waste disposal area into a thriving ecosystem that supports diverse flora and fauna.

Community involvement is integral to this restoration project. It features a ten-mile trail system, designated areas for bikers, equestrians, and hikers, as well as facilities for educational programs catering to schoolchildren, so they can learn about riparian ecosystems and contribute actively to the project.

Interesting Fact: This area of downtown Phoenix was previously a dump, and over 1,000 tons of tires were removed to initiate the project.

What Can People Do Here?

The Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area hosts programs, particularly during non-summer months, allowing visitors of all ages to engage and educate themselves about this vibrant area. Activities include:

• Bird walks
• Bike rides
• Interpretive hikes
• Arts and crafts sessions
• Dog-friendly hikes
• Junior Ranger programs
• Sunset hikes
• Special annual events

Ongoing clean-up projects always need volunteers, so there are numerous ways to contribute!

If you’re an equestrian enthusiast, the Rio Rambler Program offers horse owners the chance to ride along the ten miles of trails within the restoration area. Facilities available include a water trough, hitching posts, horse-trailer parking, and restrooms at the Equestrian Trailhead located at 2801 South 7th Avenue.

Prefer to hike solo? You’re welcome to explore the several trailhead access points throughout the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area.

Interesting Fact: During the monthly guided bird walk, Park Rangers provide binoculars for those who do not have their own.

Birding at Rio Salado

Over 200 bird species have been identified within the Rio Salado area. More than just sightings, experienced birders can recognize various bird calls, enhancing their birding experience. A helpful resource available is the Rio Salado bird checklist.

For those less experienced, the monthly guided Bird Walk provides an excellent opportunity for learning in a friendly environment. Covering between one and two miles at a leisurely pace, the Bird Walk often features sightings of species such as the osprey, sharp-shinned hawk, ash-throated flycatcher, neotropic cormorant, double-crested cormorant, and the pied-billed grebe. Each walk often notes over 30 species!

Our guide, Tom Gaskill, expertly gauged the group’s experience level, making sure that both beginners and veterans felt welcome, encouraging questions, and providing informative and enjoyable commentary. Participants are advised to bring hats, water, binoculars, and a bird field guide if possible. A fee applies for this program.

Interesting Fact: Tom’s preferred field guide for the area is “A Field Guide to Western Birds.”

Park Rules

The Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area serves as a green oasis in Phoenix, providing an unexpected sanctuary for lush vegetation, diverse wildlife, and community enjoyment. To maintain this environment, adherence to park rules is crucial:

1. Open from sunrise to sunset year-round.
2. Dogs are allowed on leashes; please stay on paved trails and clean up after them.
3. Stay on designated trails to protect the ecosystem.
4. Do not feed the wildlife.
5. Do not remove plants.
6. No alcohol or glass containers permitted.
7. Fishing is not allowed; the lake is not stocked.
8. No swimming or wading in the water.
9. Keep music at a low volume unless alone.
10. No commercial activities or soliciting.
11. Motorized vehicles, including scooters and similar devices, are not allowed outside of parking areas.

Interesting Fact: The Arizona Water Protection Fund has played a vital role in the development of the Rio Salado area, supporting various projects that enhance local riparian zones.

Location, Fees, and Schedule

The Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area features four access points:

• 2439 S. Central Avenue (northeast)
• 3212 S. 7th Avenue (southwest)
• 2875 S. 7th Street (southeast)
• 3203 S. 16th Street (southeast)

Parking is free. Modest fees may apply for specific programs at the restoration area, and prior reservations for programs are required.

For additional information about the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area, interested visitors can call 602-262-6863 or check their website for the upcoming schedule of programs and tours.

All dates, times, prices, and offerings are subject to change without notice.