Nestled at the base of Phoenix’s 16,000 acre mountain preserve, the South Mountain Environmental Education Center introduces visitors to the park’s natural and cultural history while orienting them to the many trails and unique recreational opportunities in this natural Sonoran Desert setting. Dramatic photomurals provide a backdrop for the hidden stories of the park, which include archaeology, Native American history, mining, a CCC camp and an unexpected variety of wildlife. One of Ganymede’s design considerations was to help visitors know what special features they can find when they venture up the trail or – should they choose to experience the park only by stopping at the center – to insure that their experience will be equally rich and satisfying. The award winning project was recognized by Valley Forward Association with the Crescordia Award for Environmental Excellence in 1999 and the Honeywell Award for Environmental Education in 2000.

Crescordia Award for Environmental Excellence (Parks), 1999, Valley Forward Association
Honeywell Award for Environmental Education, 2000, Valley Forward Association