Shred the desert on two wheels with a guide, or grab some binoculars and prep for your 'big year'. Discover Gilbert boasts exclusive tours that can be booked with area outfitters to explore the best the Sonoran Desert has to offer.

Desert Rivers Audubon Guided Bird Tours 
Step into a world where the desert comes alive with birdsong and fluttering wings. Hosted by experts from Desert Rivers Audubon Society, this two-hour guided birding tour weaves visitors throughout the trail system at the Gilbert Riparian Preserve, a 110-acre wetland with seven interconnected ponds. Guests will explore a lush riparian habitat, and guides will help identify birds and spot them – from hummingbirds to cactus wrens, curve-billed thrashers, and verdins – more than 300 species have been spotted at the preserve. With water around every bend, visitors are also likely to encounter herons, egrets, ospreys, and American pelicans. Time will also be spent watching migrating birds and colorful warblers along the aptly named Warbler's Row. Tours range from $60 to $70 per person, depending on the group size.

SanTan Shredders Mountain Biking Tours
Already well-regarded as a bicycle-friendly community with more than 135 miles of paths, Discover Gilbert has teamed up with the pros at SanTan Shredders on guided mountain biking tours that take guests into nearby lowland cactus-studded forests. Visitors can now book sunrise, sunset, or even full moon desert guided rides. Beginners may want to consider the Sonoran Desert Excursion Mountain Bike Trail Ride, which focuses on desert education and features some moderate hills to climb. Full moon rides offer a unique chance to explore the Sonoran Desert with only the stars to guide you! Or, book the interpretive rides for a more immersive experience. You can even just opt for a city bike rental and plan your own two-wheeled journey around Gilbert. One popular suggestion is to head down the Western Powerline Trail, which follows Arizona's interconnected canal banks as they cross through districts, passing parks, cafes, and breweries, the Riparian Preserve, into distinct neighborhoods, and more. All guided tours with SanTan Shredders explore Arizona history, geology, and highlight the Sonoran Desert terrain.

Tours are available online at www.DiscoverGilbert.com or by inquiring at discovergilbert@gilbertaz.gov.