South Mountain Park
South Mountain Park in Phoenix, Arizona is the largest municipal park in the world. It preserves in a natural state over 16,500 mountainous acres (65 km²) of native desert vegetation. The park was first formed in 1924 when President Calvin Coolidge sold its initial 13,000 acres (53 km²) to the City of Phoenix for $17,000. It has since been expanded. The park's lookout point rises over 1000 feet (305 m) above the desert floor. It features 58 miles (93 km) of hiking trails and horse trails. The landmark Mystery Castle is located within its foothills. South Mountain Park is both larger and older than Forest Park in Portland, Oregon, which is often mistakenly claimed to be the largest municipal park in the United States.
External link Park website
|
|