In the middle of Scottsdale is the perfect park to spend a few hours. It spreads out over one hundred acres and offers a variety of activities. The main feature is a lake that reflects the beautiful Arizona sky. There is a walking path all around the lake for walkers, runners, bikers and dog walkers. The eastern side of it is part of the Green Belt Trail, which extends north and south through parks and golf courses.
There is an exercise course spread out along the path with ten stations for working out various muscles. Multiple benches line the lake for sitting and reading, contemplation or having a snack. Fishing is also available from the shore or you can bring a small boat.
Exercise course
The north end of the park features three dog parks, divided into an active and passive dog section and one section closed for the grass to recover. The xeriscape garden offers a wonderful place for strolling under the branches of Palo Verde trees.
These are especially beautiful when in bloom with a multitude of small yellow flowers. The garden is a National Wildlife Federation Certified Wildlife Habitat and features over 7000 plants and 200 species. The garden demonstrates the attractiveness of conserving water with desert-adapted plants and trees.
Xeriscape Garden - Palo Verde Trees in bloom
Chaparral Park also houses soccer and baseballs fields as well as basketball and volleyball courts. The playground was completely renovated a few years ago and has something for every age of child. There are two ramadas next to the playground for parents to hang out and watch.
Two other ramadas around the park can be reserved for parties and picnics. There is plenty of space around the lake for picnics and playing games.
Ramada
You can also spend your time bird watching. The lake attracts many types of water birds, including ducks, geese, herons and cormorants. There are two eagles that often sit on the telephone poles across Hayden Road. If you are lucky, you can see them swoop down and grab a fish out of the lake. They will often then sit high up in one of the trees in the park. You can also enjoy listening to the various songbirds.
The park is right along Hayden road and has multiple parking lots. There are restrooms and water fountains. There is also a fabulous pool but it has been closed during the pandemic. Chaparral Park offers something for everyone if you enjoy the outdoors and is easily accessible from all parts of the Valley.
