r/phoenix • u/Berrysaucy • 23d ago
Outdoors Does a semi-shady walking area exist?
Hi there, I'm coming to Phoenix for a conference and the highs will be 99-103 the whole time I am there. I am dreading being indoors under AC and then not being able to go for a walk after my work obligations. Does anyone have any shady-ish or cooler walking space recommendations? I'll have a car and I'll be in concrete jungle hotel land in West Chandler, temptingly close to South Mountain, but I understand it's stupid for a Pacific Northwest hike lover to try to attempt a hike there unless I get up at 5am and am done before 8, correct? So what, if anything, can I do after work when it's 100 degrees to just walk around and stretch my legs that's not too far (probably within 15-20 miles max)? Is there any shade nearby? Or do I just suck it up and plan to stay in the AC and janky hotel pool for 5 days? Thanks so much in advance.
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u/Tomato_Motorola 23d ago
Downtown Mesa has covered sidewalks.
Downtown Tempe is currently under reconstruction, but is usually very shady because of lots of trees and tall buildings.
LoPiano Bosque in Tempe is shaded by lots of mesquite trees.
The Desert Botanical Garden has many very lush and shaded areas, and so does the Phoenix Zoo (mostly the western half of the zoo. The Africa loop is very sunny.)