Grab your hats, sunscreen and sneakers: spring has sprung at Gladden Farms! The sun is shining, the bees are buzzing and there are activities galore all around Marana. With so many opportunities for fitness and fun in the area, we’re here to help you plan. Read on for a roundup of some of the best spring and summer outdoor activities for every age and interest!
For the kiddos
We’re lucky to have some of the best activities to keep kids active happening here in town, and often, right in the neighborhood!
Youth sports in Marana
Kids of all ages can learn sports fundamentals with Mini Me Sports, Pee Wee Soccer, flag football and tennis lessons hosted at various parks around Marana, including the new soccer fields at Gladden Farms Community Park, next to the Shadow Glen neighborhood. Sign up with Marana Parks and Recreation.
Paint Night in the Park — Teens
Between video games and social media, it can be hard to get teens off screens. But with Teen Paint Night in the Park, your teenager can enjoy guided paint sessions under the stars with friends at Heritage River Park’s open-air barn. You’ll know they’re safe and they’ll have fun letting their creativity take flight. Sign your teen up or view upcoming Teen Paint Nights here.
Community Garden classes
Did you know Heritage River Park has gardening plots for the community? You can rent a space to grow flowers, fruits and veggies with the family. New to gardening? The Town hosts classes to teach you and the kids all the ins and outs, with water play included to stay nice and cool. Check out the upcoming Wet and Wild in the Garden series, starting in July and open to ages 2-10 with an adult.
Movies in Marana
Marana’s favorite family-friendly outdoor movie series is back! Bring your own seating to any one of these lively screenings held at various Marana parks. On June 15, they’re paying us a visit at Gladden Farms Community Park with a screening of “The Bad Guys” you won’t want to miss!
Splash and play
One of the best ways to have fun outdoors is free and open to all: the ever-popular, shaded splash pad at Gladden Farms Community Park. Minutes from home and open from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily, it’s a favorite spot for kids to cool off from April through October. With plenty of parking, a neighboring playground and nearby dog park, this is the place to be on a warm sunny day.
For the adults
With spring’s great temperatures and longer days, now’s the time to make good on those resolutions and head outdoors to get fit, socialize and soak up the sunshine!
Mother’s Day 5K & Kids Free Fun Run
#RUNMARANA hosts themed marathons throughout the year and, on Saturday, May 11, they’re coming to Gladden Farms! Celebrate Mother’s Day with a 5K along the Santa Cruz and a cider toast after the race. Plus, kids get to participate in a separate Fun Run for free. Learn more or register here. Also, keep an eye out for the Tortolita Traverse half-marathon through the Tortolita Preserve on May 4.
Guided hikes & horseback rides
Are you a beginning hiker or equestrian? Learn the fundamentals of desert trekking and riding with Marana Parks and Recreation’s hikes and horseback rides, led by experienced and safety-conscious guides. Check out the town calendar for the next excursion.
Paint Night in the Park
Paint nights aren’t just for teens — the adult version of Paint Night in the Park is just as fun! Held in the cool evenings at Heritage River Park’s scenic barn, these guided paint sessions are perfect for date night or a fun evening with friends. Look out for the next session on May 10, with more to follow.
iStroll Marana/Oro Valley
Mom, this one’s for you! iStroll Marana and Oro Valley offers outdoor workouts for moms on the go, and little ones are welcome! Build strength, burn calories and connect with other women, with options for walking, HIIT, low-impact and cardio workouts. Join the club here.
Senior adventure trips
Seniors, join the Town of Marana Senior Program for a great way to connect with other local active adults. The program offers exercise classes, parties and even day trips for fun adventures in and near Marana. Sign up to join Team Senior here.
Go solo
Prefer an impromptu solo adventure? Check out these great locations close to home for fresh air, fitness and scenic views.
Heritage River Park
Heritage River Park has it all. Here, you’ll find sunflower patches and walking paths connecting to Gladden Farms neighborhoods, the Santa Cruz River Path and the historic Juan Bautista de Anza Trail. The park is located at N. Tangerine Farms Road and N. Heritage Park Drive.
Juan Bautista de Anza Trail
This 1,200-mile trail follows the route of a late 1700s Spanish expedition across two countries and three states, winding from Sonora, Mexico to San Francisco, California. Hop on Marana’s segment of the trail at Heritage River Park.
Coming soon: the Loop
Get ready for even more opportunities for outdoor fun, with work already underway to link the Chuck Huckelberry Loop to our community. The project is expected to be completed in late 2024 and will provide access to the beloved 131-mile shared-use trail system from Gladden Farms Community Park.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on all the great amenities coming our way!
About Gladden Farms
Gladden Farms promotes active, joyful living. It’s a great setting to make friends, play and call home. Our stylish, eco-smart, affordable new homes in Marana start in the lower $300Ks — perfect for young professionals, families of all sizes, empty nesters and retirees. Our family-friendly community features year-round events, 850+ acres of lush green space, 30 parks, miles of landscaped paseos connecting to scenic trails, 24 playgrounds, playfields, a splash pad, a dog park and picnic and BBQ areas.