Summer Activities in Gilbert AZ-The Canal Trails

By Deanne Olivas

Real Estate Agent with eXp Realty Equal Housing Opportunity

May 20, 2013 07:38 AM

Summer Activities in Gilbert AZ- Bike or Hike the Canal Trails

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Even when the summer temperatures are above 100 degrees in Gilbert, the mornings can be pleasant. Getting up at sunrise and getting the bike out of the garage or the walking shoes out of the closet can be rewarding if you choose to utilize the Canal Systems that are located in Gilbert and other east valley cities. The canals have been vital to farmers for over 100 years and now have been revitalized to offer a unique opportunity to bike, hike or walk away from traffic and with pedestrian traffic lights added at every major intersection to assure a safe crossing for even the youngest of users. The paths meander through many of Gilbert’s parks and the sidewalks, trees, fountains and desert landscaping make the pathways an oasis for those who use them. See Trails System map courtesy of www.gilbertaz.gov.

The Gilbert Canal Trail System is one of Gilbert’s hidden treasures. The Santan Vista Trail meanders north to south for 20 miles along the banks of the Eastern Canal where it ends at Riggs RD. A good place to start is the Riparian Preserve east of the Southeast Regional Library on Guadalupe and Greenfield Roads. Another trail, the 22 mile Western Powerline Trail enters Gilbert from the west near McQueen Park south of Guadalupe on McQueen Road. Take it east 3 miles and turn right where it meets the Heritage Trail following the path of the Consolidated Canal in a north/ south direction or keep heading east as the trail overlooks Freestone Park on its journey to Power Road.

Picture is of the Stonebridge Lakes Manor bridge over canal.

Bergies Coffee Roast House Bikes One of my favorite bicycle rides is from McQueen Park to Freestone Park (Lindsay Road) with a short detour on Gilbert Road to enjoy a Chai Latte at Bergies Coffee Roast House (just head south on Gilbert Road and don’t worry, you can’t get there too early-they open at 6AM except for Sunday when they are open at 7AM). On a Saturday morning you could also stroll through the Gilbert Farmers Market.

Bergies Coffee Roast House
309 N Gilbert Rd
Gilbert AZ 85234

The canal trails in Gillbert AZ are just part of what makes Gilbert a family friendly communiity. If you are considering a move to Gilbert or another east valley community, I would like to assist you. As you can see, I am SOLD on Gilbert and love to share the reasons why.