SKYLINE REGIONAL PARK

SKYLINE REGIONAL PARK to BREAK GROUND THIS SPRING

Buckeye

Future site of Skyline Regional Park

After years of public meetings, environmental assessments and negotiations with land management agencies, Skyline Regional Park in Buckeye is about to become a reality. Situated in mountainous, geologically complex terrain north of Interstate 10, construction on the the 8,675-acre recreational site will begin sometime in April/May. The park will be developed in phases with long term goals that include expansion of trails, building additional facilities and working toward connectivity with Maricopa County Parks and the Valley-circumnavigating Maricopa Trail. When the park opens this year, there will be paved access roads, gatehouse, developed trailhead, parking, horse staging area, picnic ramadas, restroom and camping sites along with an environmental education programming area. A 133' long by 14' wide bridge will span a gaping desert wash to connect hikers, equestrians and bikers to 14 miles of existing trails. Another 14 miles of trails are in the planning stages. The non-motorized use routes will range in challenge level from barrier-free to difficult and each will be surrounded by breathtaking Sonoran Desert plants and wildlife. Deer, javelina, desert fox, raptors and the Sonoran Desert Tortoise live among the park's rich stands of ironwood, Palo Verde and mesquite trees that shade colorful spreads of wildflowers, native vines and blooming cacti. From the park's high points, big sky views beg to be savored, which is why a special spot perched on a yawning mountain saddle will be designated for interpretive star gazing events.

The park will be open from sunrise to sunset daily. Initially there will be no fees to enter the park, but that may change over time. Check back here for park updates, opening day announcement, location details and trail reviews. Until then, you can read up on the park's history and future plans by clicking on the links below.

INFO: City of Buckeye
http://www.buckeyeaz.gov/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/1.7.2_Skyline-Regional-Park-Master-Plan-Final_201208141340254260.pdf

White Tank Mountains Conservancy

http://www.wtmconservancy.org/

Sonoran Institute:

http://www.sonoraninstitute.org/where-we-work/southwest/sun-corridor-legacy/867-white-tank-mountains-conservancy.html