How to Hike in Anthem, Arizona

Here's a riddle: What sits on the northern edge of the Sonoran Desert and the Valley of the Sun, has thousands of homes and tens of thousands of residents, and isn't a city? The answer: Anthem, Arizona. This planned community offers everything a body needs to enjoy life, from shopping to schools to top-notch outdoor recreation opportunities, including some pretty good hiking. Before you take off for Daisy Mountain or the Maricopa Trail, there are a few simple things you might want to know.Plan your trip. Knowledge is power, and in the desert, it can make all the difference between a good day of hiking and a bad one. Do some research to familiarize yourself with the Sonoran Desert so you know what to expect when you're on the desert, which has lots of sun, hot temperatures and little shade. If you're not familiar with the local area, plan to hike the first time on a developed trail. The Maricopa Trail extends from Spur Cross to Anthem and from Anthem to Lake Pleasant; pick it up at the Spear S Ranch trailhead or Anthem trailhead.Dress for a hike in the desert. Select heat- and sun-appropriate clothes and shoes, because even on the hottest days, it is a good idea to cover up. Wear a loose-fitting, light or white cotton shirt with long sleeves over the top of your T-shirt or tank top; it will keep the sun off and provide some personal evaporative cooling. Many desert plants grow thorns to protect themselves, so long pants and/or gaiters can be your legs' best friend. Don't leave home without a brimmed hat, preferably one that provides good shade for your nose and ears.Carry sufficient water and drink it. An adequate supply of water is essential for hiking safely in the desert. Your body needs to stay hydrated, and when you don't drink enough, you can be overcome by heat, especially if you're not accustomed to it. The amount of water you need with you depends on the temperature, your level of fitness and the terrain you'll be hiking. The experts at Hike Arizona recommend you take 8 oz. of water for every mile you plan to hike.Tread carefully. The desert if full of interesting critters, and some of them, including rattlesnakes, spiders and scorpions, pack a sting. In fact, Arizona is home to 13 different species of rattlesnake, so wear sturdy boots and pay attention where you put your hands and feet. If you spot a snake, stop walking and give it a chance to get away. In most cases, a snake won't bother you if you don't bother it; if it buzzes, you have bothered it.Colleen Morrison has been writing professionally for two decades. She holds an M.A. from the University of Wyoming and a Ph.D. in history from Arizona State University. She ghostwrites articles, blogs and Web content for her clients. Articles under her name appear at M&M, eHow, Golflink and other sites.