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Day trip on MLK

We have a free day with our hockey team. The kids are 15. We're staying in Chandler and need to be at the airport at 430pm. Anything adventurous available in January? Not looking for Top Golf or anything inside. TIA

For a group of 15-year-olds in Chandler looking for an adventurous outdoor day in January, the Phoenix metro area and surrounding desert offer a variety of options that combine activity, scenery, and fun. With an airport departure at 4:30pm, you’ll want activities that are doable in the morning and early afternoon.

Outdoor Adventure Options:

  • Hiking in the Desert: The Sonoran Desert has excellent beginner-friendly trails. Some accessible options near Chandler include:
    • San Tan Mountain Regional Park – Offers several easy to moderate trails with great views of the desert landscape and wildlife. Hikes can range from 1–3 miles.
    • South Mountain Park & Preserve – Easy trails like the Desert Discovery Trail are suitable for teens and provide panoramic views of the valley.
  • Mountain Biking: If your group enjoys cycling, South Mountain and McDowell Mountain Regional Park have well-maintained trails suitable for beginner to intermediate riders. Rentals are available nearby.
  • Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Tempe Town Lake offers kayak and paddleboard rentals. A 1–2 hour session is fun, safe, and allows for some exercise without extensive travel.
  • Rock Climbing / Bouldering: Outdoor bouldering areas exist at places like Usery Mountain Regional Park. You can hire a local guide for an hour or two of instruction and climbing safety.

Combination & Logistics:

  • Plan to start around 8–9am to make the most of daylight and allow enough time to return to Chandler by ~3pm for airport prep.
  • Consider combining a short desert hike with a quick visit to a scenic spot for photos or exploration. For example, a morning hike at San Tan Mountains followed by a short visit to nearby Goldfield Ghost Town for fun history/photo ops.
  • Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and hats for the desert. Even in January, it can be sunny and cool in the morning, warming by mid-day.

With this timing, your group can enjoy a real outdoor adventure, get some exercise, and still comfortably make it back for the flight.

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