Quality of life in Greater Phoenix

The Phoenix Open is played annually in February at the TPC Scottsdale. It is the largest spectator golf event in the U.S.

Greater Phoenix sits amid the Sonoran Desert, home to the Saguaro cactus. More rain falls on the Sonoran Desert than any other desert in the world.

The Papago Buttes (left) and Camelback Mountain (right) frame the communities of Phoenix, Tempe, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley.

CC Cragin Dam forms the CC Cragin Reservoir on the Mogollon Rim in northern Arizona. The Rim, as locals call it, is home to the largest contiguous Ponderosa Pine forest in the world.

Waterskiing on Roosevelt Lake, one of the many summer water activities available a short drive from metropolitan Phoenix.

Kayakers canoe on CC Cragin reservoir, set amid the pine forests of Arizona's high country. Elevations here are 6,000+ feet, higher than the city of Denver.

Tempe Town Lake, as seen from the north shore. Tempe is home to Arizona State University, a vibrant nightlife and numerous industries.

The iconic Monument Valley on the Navajo Nation is indicative of Arizona's diverse terrain.

Spring training at Phoenix Municpal Stadium, home of the Oakland Atheltics. Fifteen Major League Baseball teams train in the Cactus League each March, drawing millions of visitors to the area.

Swimmers cool off on a summer afternoon. Water parks and public aquatic facilities are located throughout Greater Phoenix, often within just a few miles of most neighborhoods.

The Scottsdale Waterfront lights up during Canal Convergence, a festival highlighting the city's connection to the canals, a key component of the region's water distribution system.

The Soleri Bridge in downtown Scottsdale, a city known for its opulent nightlife, dining and cultural attractions.