Explore the Garden
On our trails, you’ll experience the unique and beautiful plants that thrive in some of the hottest and driest parts of the world. Walk one or all of these Sonoran Desert nature paths and hiking trails in Phoenix, and you’ll see why we’re so passionate about desert plants.
Desert Discovery Trail
- Take the main trail for a pleasant walk that celebrates the unique beauty of the desert
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, a roadrunner or family of quail may cross your path
- Learn about the remarkable adaptations of desert plants
Harriet K. Maxwell Desert Wildflower Trail
- Enjoy a pleasant stroll along 1/3 mile of seasonal blooms
- Don’t be surprised to spot butterflies and hummingbirds
- Discover how plants & pollinators work together to create a thriving desert ecosystem
Center for Desert Living Trail
- See what’s fresh this season in the edible garden beds
- Check the time on the giant sundial in the Steele Herb Garden
- Relax and stay awhile in the Mary Jean Connell Sensory Garden, a delight for the senses
Sonoran Desert Nature Trail
- Take the highest path in the Garden to experience an Organ Pipe cactus forest
- Learn about native plant relationships and look out for animal tracks
- Catch dramatic mountain views and a colorful Sonoran sunset at the ramada
Plants & People of the Sonoran Desert Trail
- Wander through 1/3 mile of distinct habitats like the desert oasis and the semi-desert grasslands
- Step inside a traditional Apache Wickiup made entirely of desert plants
- Learn about the ways that indigenous people of the Sonoran Desert use plants for food, fiber, shelter, arts and medicine
Ottosen Entry Garden
- The Garden’s outdoor “grand hall” serves as an iconic introduction to desert plants
- Explore beds of cactus, from prickly pear to organ pipes to saguaros, set against a stunning view of the Papago Butte
- Check daily tour times and hop on a walk with a Garden Docent
Sybil B. Harrington Cactus and Succulent Galleries
- Visit the galleries for incredible displays of sculptural plants
- Spot the differences between cactus and succulents
- Learn about how these plant groups evolved over time
Christensen Family Desert Oasis
- Cross over the entry bridge to admire Sonoran Desert palms and a wash full of white-blooming flowers
- Meander through the color garden, full of red, orange and yellow flowering plants, and see what’s blooming this season
- Take a rest under the tipu trees in the grove and relax to the sound of running water
Berlin Agave Yucca Forest
- Step onto the bridge and down into a towering display of yuccas and agaves
- Listen to the soothing sounds of water flowing over boulders in the desert wash
Kitchell Family Heritage Garden
- Look for the Garden’s first ever collection cactus, planted in 1939
- Step into the Fine Family Contemplation Garden for stunning views and calming vibes
- Take your picture in front of the Mexican giant cardons, standing at over 30 feet tall
The RAF Exhibit Gallery
- Cool off inside The RAF and take in exhibits centered around art and research
- Learn something new about what the Garden is working on behind the scenes
Cohn Family Butterfly Pavilion
What to Expect
Explore the butterfly life cycle by interacting with thousands of butterflies. Learn how these fluttery creatures care for and protect the desert environment.
Join us in helping conserve them for future generations.
Cohn Family Butterfly Pavilion
- Walk among thousands of live butterflies amid lush plantings
- Observe butterflies emerging from their chrysalises at the Diana E. & Paul B. Smith Butterfly Nursery window
- Learn how to support and protect vital pollinator populations
What to Expect
Explore the butterfly life cycle by interacting with thousands of butterflies. Learn how these fluttery creatures care for and protect the desert environment.
Join us in helping conserve them for future generations.
Exhibit Hours
Sept. 26 – Nov. 15 | 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cohn Family Butterfly Pavilion Generously Supported By
