Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch

About

The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is a 110-acre wetland and wildlife sanctuary in Gilbert, built around seven ponds. Multi-use trails run between the ponds, and birders come here for the steady mix of water birds. There's no charge to walk in, and the trails are open from dawn to dusk even though the grounds stay open until 10 p.m. Fishing in the urban lake needs a license. The Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory sits on site and holds public star parties. Mornings are the nicest time to walk, before the sun gets strong.