We All Need a Break From the Office

Try these quick and easy outdoor activities that will have you breathing some fresh air and soaking up the sun.

Explore the Scottsdale Green Belt

Nestled within Scottsdale is an 11-mile green belt designed for flood control but reveled in by fitness enthusiasts and families. The green belt is a multiuse path, featuring activities such as Frisbee golf, tennis, basketball, shuffleboard and more. Joggers, walkers, strollers, cyclists and pets are welcome. It runs more or less along Hayden Road from about Indian Bend Road south through the city to McKellips Road.

Stop by a farmers market

There's no better time of year to stroll outdoors with dogs and kids in tow -- and no better place than at a local farmers market stocked with greens, carrots, turnips and herbs grown by local farmers.

From now through April, dozens of Valley farmers markets draw shoppers to their fresh produce, salsas, breads, hand-churned butter, pastries and tamales. An added perk: the relaxing experience of shopping outdoors.

Map out an afternoon route on an urban bike path

The Phoenix Sonoran Bikeway is one of the largest urban bike lanes in the state. The path runs from Cave Creek to South Mountain and includes a side loop through Dreamy Draw Park, meeting back up with the main path around Maryland Avenue and 12{+t}{+h} Street. The Phoenix Sonoran Bikeway takes cyclists by historical areas, including the Willo Historic District.

Host a picnic at the Farm

The bucolic setting at the Farm at South Mountain -- a 12-acre oasis of organic gardens, lawns and pecan trees -- offers great picnic spots that offer a respite from the rat race of the Valley's sprawling suburban megalopolis. Dine outdoors at one of the farm's eateries, or bring your own basket packed with sandwiches to enjoy at one of the many picnic tables scattered on the grounds. For tasty sandwiches, slather cream horseradish sauce on sourdough bread. Top with thinly sliced roast beef, slices of tomato, red onion and slivers of roasted red peppers. Or substitute turkey or roasted eggplant for the beef.

Details: 6106 S. 32nd St., Phoenix. 602-276-0601, thefarmatsouthmountain.com.