Within a few years of 1912--the year Arizona became the 48th state admitted to the Union--families began to settle on homesteads 30 miles southeast of Phoenix. These early settlers were primarily farmers of diverse heritage and faith. San Tan Mountain provided the backdrop for the arduous task of clearing cactus and thorny scrub brush from the desert. As irrigation water was pumped from drilled wells, crops took root on newly cultivated fields, and the communities of Rittenhouse, Higley, Combs, and Chandler Heights were established. Rittenhouse later became the town of Queen Creek. These communities were influenced--like many others across the Southwest--by war, the Depression, and immigration, all of which challenged and enriched the area.

Drawn from one of the best-selling titles in the 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles series, this compact guide can be tucked easily into a bag, backpack or back pocket. Almost 150,000 residents took part in Phoenix's Park system last year -- here are 20 more outdoor escapes for family fun and light exercise. New trails have been established and old trails rediscovered, making the hikes in Phoenix and the surrounding areas better than ever. Based on the author's own research, this handy guide introduces the best easy hikes. Filled with detailed descriptions of each trail, Easy Hikes Close to Home: Phoenix helps novice hikers discover their choices with clear maps and concise at-a-glance information.

From Charles Rittenhouse's 1919 thousand-acre Queen Creek Farms Company to the railroad settlement called Rittenhouse, the area renamed Queen Creek in 1947 continued to flourish as an agricultural and farming community. By the 1970s, as farming became less profitable, the land began to give way to new development. Homes and businesses began to settle among family farms, and the school district expanded. By 1989, Queen Creek had incorporated to become Arizona's 84th municipality, and the following years saw the town establishing its own goals and traditions. The town of Queen Creek is located 35 miles southeast of Phoenix. To the north lies the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, which is the former Williams Air Force Base. Queen Creek is home to the historic Rittenhouse School. A strong volunteer base allows the community to participate in the decades-long traditions of an annual Christmas parade and Fourth of July celebration.

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Grab your water bottle and explore more than 75 great hikes in and around Phoenix. The Valley of the Sun offers thousands of acres for hardcore hikers and first-timers alike to enjoy Arizona's amazing landscape. Inside Moon Take a Hike Phoenix you'll find: Detailed Descriptions: Find the right hike for you with thoughtful and thorough descriptions of what to expect along each trail. Pick from a variety of hikes ranging from flat routes suitable for families to challenging rock scrambles. Escape the city for a few hours or take a day-long trek to ultimate solitude. Quick Reference: Compare difficulty ratings, distance, and elevation gain to pick which trail to tackle in an easy-to-scan chart. Icons identify hikes that are dog-friendly or wheelchair accessible-and highlights like historic sites, wildlife, and wildflowers Maps and Directions: Easy-to-use maps for each trail showing topography and elevation. Point-by-point navigation guides you along the right path and prepares you for changes in terrain. All hikes include GPS coordinates and detailed driving directions (including access via public transit when available) for each trailhead. Best-of Lists: Get ideas for where to start with hikes sorted by interest or difficulty, including "Best Near Water," "Best Summit Views," and "Best Kid-Friendly Hikes." Trusted Advice: Born and raised in Phoenix, author Lilia Menconi shares the experience and knowledge she's gained hiking in and around her hometown. Lilia also includes essential tips on desert safety and ways to beat the heat. Whether you're a veteran or a first-time hiker, a lifelong resident or a brand new transplant, Moon Take a Hike Phoenix will have you ready to lace up your hiking boots and head out on your next adventure. Looking to explore beyond Phoenix? Try Moon Southwest Road Trip. Ready for an overnight outdoor adventure? Check out Moon Grand Canyon.

The National Geographic Traveler guidebooks are in tune with the growing trend toward experiential travel. Each book provides inspiring photography, insider tips, and expert advice for a more authentic, enriching experience of the destination. These books serve a readership of active, discerning travelers, and supply information, historical context, and cultural interpretation not available online. From the Grand Canyon to its desert landscapes, the American Southwest has always held an irresistible appeal for visitors from all over the world who want to experience the fascination of its untamed nature. Its boundless territory makes it perfect for road trip adventures where visitors will discover scenery and nature that make the journey as enjoyable as the destination. So that they can make the best of their time in Arizona, the author, Bill Weir, who has written more than 16 books about the state, offers visitors itineraries that lead to the most significant destinations and reveal the must-see features hidden at every stop. With the advice of authors, photographers and National Geographic experts, the guide provides the curious visitor with an essential, competent view of the aspects of modern life, the history and the culture of the Grand Canyon State as well as walks and guided tours both on and off the beaten path.