Arizona has several botanical gardens, but one, in particular, tends to fly tragically under the radar. Boyce Thompson Arboretum, located in beautiful Superior, Arizona, is actually the largest garden of its kind in the state, boasting more than 4,000 plants and many different types of terrain. It's also home to several trails that we think are some of our favorite hikes in Arizona. These gardens also feature a suspension bridge that leads to some truly incredible creek and canyon views! The best part of all? This suspension bridge hike in Arizona is not scary, or even intimidating, at all. In fact, it's pretty nice!
Founded in 1924, Boyce Thompson Arboretum is the largest, oldest, and frankly, one of the best botanical gardens in Arizona.
Over 4,000 species of arid land plants from all over the world grow here, including one of the largest red gum Eucalyptus trees in the United States!
A 1.5-mile loop trail meanders through the 392-acre park, leading visitors through various unique landscapes.
One such exhibit is a cactus garden with over 800 species, ranging from iconic, majestic ancient saguaros to the tiniest little pincushion cacti that you'll miss if you don't look down at least once.
Springtime brings eye-popping wildflowers in every color of the rainbow.
Stop and smell the roses, so to speak, as you take in the pleasant fragrances of the Sonoran Desert and embrace the season of growth, vibrancy, and starting anew.
One of the neatest things about this arboretum is the striking terrain diversity you'll enjoy without ever leaving the main walkway.
Awe-inspiringly beautiful tree tunnels, a man-made lake, a few herb gardens, and palm tree grove all effortlessly flow into each other despite being from differing regions of the planet. There are also three side trails that provide a greater challenge and more educational opportunities to all who dare trek it. It's not THAT hard, we swear!
At the farthest end of the park is a wooden suspension bridge that, in traditional fashion, sways precariously as you walk across.
It spans across a quiet, gentle creek, imparting simply gorgeous views in all directions. Bring a camera, otherwise you'll really wish you'd thought to bring one. Of course, anything you take on your camera phone is sure to be lovely, too.
Nature shows up differently each season, from brilliantly-hued cactus fruits in the summer to the most intense fall foliage you've ever laid eyes on.
No matter what the time of year you visit, rest assured: this bridge is a perfect vantage point for the impressive scenery.
How incredibly breathtaking is all that lush greenery on the other side?
A picture-perfect scene at its finest.
Visit the arboretum on the web or follow the arboretum's Facebook page to learn more about visiting hours, current events, sales, and admission. And remember, whenever you're hiking in Arizona, be sure to pack all the essentials - even if you're on a short hike, as our weather can be extreme.
Have you hiked any of the Boyd Thompson Arboretum trails or walked across its suspension bridge in Arizona? If so, what was your favorite piece of scenery along the way? Let us know!
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