Best Dog Walk
Rillito River Park
READERS' PICK: After a long day it's a safe bet Fido will be waiting
by the door, leash in mouth, ready for an outdoor excursion. Therein
lies the challenge...where do canine-lovers take their best friends
for a little fresh air and exercise? Although there's that occasional
pooch who enjoys "taking on" an auto or two, most mutts
(not to mention their owners) find it difficult to relax when
surrounded by honking horns and exhaust. In a town that offers
few alternatives, the Rillito River Park provides a serene,
protected escape. Head west from Campbell Avenue along the Rillito
and walk to your little heart's content (all the way to La Cholla
Boulevard, if you're so inclined). No need to worry about any
vehicular close encounters along this scenic, tree-lined path
(although it's a good idea to keep an eye out for trail-blazing
roller bladers). Painted foot prints remind you to stay to the
left to avoid colliding with bikes, strollers and skaters, who
somehow manage to co-exist peacefully. Enjoy a picturesque walk
surrounded by desert landscape, with the convenience of a paved
pathway to protect your precious pooch's paws from stickers or
cactus. (For a more serene stroll, saunter along the equestrian
south-bank dirt trail, and avoid wheels of any type). Wander along
the trail at sunset to hear the birds chirping and lizards rustling
in the surrounding brush. Playful ground squirrels and bunnies
chase one another along the pathway. Water fountains can be found
at each intersection, so don't forget to bring along a dish for
your dehydrated doggie. Most of all, don't forget your portable
pooper-scooper--no baggies provided here.
READERS' POLL RUNNER-UP: At the risk of spoiling what may be a
best-kept secret, Himmel Park, 1000 N. Tucson Blvd., is
one of the most dog-friendly pockets in the city. The best place
in the park is the gully on the northeast border (along Treat
Avenue), where dog owners collectively throw caution to the wind
and unleash their charges in a wonderfully chaotic celebration
of canine energy. We know and respect the rights of the un-dogged,
which is why Himmel is such a great place: Everyone here in this
tiny corner of the universe accepts the risks of having their
dog toys usurped, getting slobbered on, barked at, overrun or
ignored. Here, dogs rule! Friendly dogs, that is, which all of
the dogs here seem to be. There's something about a multitude
of dogs at play that makes their owners act more civilized. It's
a godsend for those of us who lack the energy after a hard day
at the office to properly play with our four-legged pals.
