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New River Nature Reserve
 Rocketing
up I-17 from Phoenix to the high country through New River,
travelers pass by the 20.8 acres
New River Nature Reserve. In 1994, Steve Bragg donated the property
to the Desert Foothills Land
Trust to protect the site’s environmental and historic value. The
Reserve is home to many species of plants found only in areas with a
year-round supply of water.
Because the site was recognized as a reliable source for water, the
headquarters of the Flying Y Ranch was established here in 1886,
where it also served as a stagecoach stop. Today the Reserve is set
aside for wildlife, including fish and the lush riparian plants. The
public is welcome to enjoy this attractive reserve on foot, bicycle
and horseback during daylight hours.
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| Here are some
images from the riparian zone at the reserve. These images show
the healthy ecological conditions of the reserve. Excellent habitat for birds,
reptiles and amphibians. Local deer and javelina get food,
water and shade here. |
Directions:
 To get to the New River
Nature Reserve, exit I-17 (eastbound) at the
New River exit, and drive east about an eighth mile to the
frontage road. Turn left (north) onto the frontage road, drive
north, and you will see the Roadrunner Restaurant within
another eighth mile.
Continue 2.1 miles north of the Roadrunner
Restaurant on the frontage road. You will pass an elementary
school along the way, and eventually cross a rocky wash. After
2.1 miles, you will reach a junction, with the road splitting
into three, and a row of mail boxes.
Across from the mailboxes
is a convenient place to park. Walk in on the left-most road,
past the blue fence, maybe a quarter mile to the preserve (you
will reach a New River Preserve sign and a gate). Continue down
the road a ways, and you will find open areas giving easier
access to the preserve's "interior."
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