Lost Dutchman State Park
Location: Mesa, AZ
Photo Pass: $10 per car, paid to the guard house upon entry. Best to bring cash — if the guard house is closed, cash must be left in an envelope at the gate.
Iconic mountain views with classic desert scenery throughout. This spot is a short, flat hike out about 5-6 minutes. Sun will rise behind the mountain as the park is angled, mountain faces north west. These photos were taken at sunset.
The Salt River
Location: Mesa, AZ
Photo Pass: $8 Tonto National Forest Pass per car, acquired in advance off-site
Colorful mountain views behind the mountains (these display photos were taken at sunset, so will not be orange), green trees surrounding. We'll need to be mindful of river levels, as the water recedes to a rock bed during winter, and can be crowded on weekends during the summer. A good blend of desert and greenery! This view is a short walk down from the parking lot.
Usery Mountain Regional Park
Location: Mesa, AZ
Photo Pass: $8 per car to enter the park, paid at the guard house on the drive in
Layered mountain views on a clear day, lots of saguaros! Classic desert scenery. These photos were taken in the morning. The cover photo was also taken here!
Manistee Ranch Park
Location: 5127 W Northern Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Photo Permit: $25 paid in cash, in person, in advance to the Glendale Historical Society office at Sahuaro Ranch Park. Permit must be worn while on property. Permit can be mailed in if given enough notice.
This large, midwestern style house has a huge large lot out front filled with palm trees, with a small citrus tree grove out back, farm equipment on display, a long walkway with full vines (best during summer, fall). These photos were taken at sunset – the house faces north, so the sun will rise behind it.
Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Location: 18333 N Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Photo Permit: $50 and permit approval in advance and proof of insurance submission through the City of Scottsdale - expect 7-10 business days for approval
Classic desert scenery a short walk from the parking lot. These photos were taken facing south west at sunset, but the sunrise view may include some of the mountains in addition to the saguaros seen in the last photo.
Phoenix Mountain Preserve
Location: 40th Street Trailhead: 9200 N 40th St, Phoenix, AZ 85028
Photo Permit: None
This photo was taken in early morning, just after sunrise. The sun continues to travel behind the mountains as it rises. No hiking at this location — the desert area is closed to patrons, but this fence is right off of the parking lot.
