Experience the lush beauty of the Arizona Upland Sonoran Desert at the state's oldest and largest botanical garden. With spectacular views of Picketpost Mountain, Boyce Thompson Arboretum is located in scenic Queen Creek Canyon, just 30 minutes from Mesa. Featuring plant collections from the world's deserts, historic buildings and hidden gardens along miles of trails, the Arboretum is on the National Register of Historic Places. A haven for wildlife, the Arboretum has been called "the most enchanting" Important Birding Area in Arizona.