Sheraton Wild Horse Pass
Resort and Spa

At one time, the Gila flowed all year through the desert, providing precious water to the Native American tribes of the Phoenix valley and surrounding areas.

It was a true oasis in the desert.

The indigenous Akimel O’otham (Pima) Indians lived along the Gila, floodwater farming the surrounding lands and planting crops of corn, beans, squash, melons and cotton.

Today, most of the Gila River is dry - its water diverted and siphoned for the ever-growing Phoenix metropolis.

A recreation of the Gila River flows behind the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort

The Gila River Indian Community’s Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa has tried to recapture the essence of what once was.

By evoking their Native American heritage in the concept and design of a modern resort, they’ve done so beautifully.

Wild Horse Pass is located on the 642 square mile Gila River Indian Reservation - just a quick 11 mile drive south of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Interstate 10.

The Gila River Community is comprised of two tribes, the Pima (or Akimel O’otham, which means "people of the river") and the Maricopa (Pee Posh) who migrated into the area from Yuma in the 1800s.

We loved this resort’s great food, beautiful views and a strong sense of Native American culture and identity.

Wild Horse Pass Resort’s location, just far enough away from the bustle of busy Phoenix yet close enough to get to area attractions, was not a problem for us.

Wild Horse Pass Resort as seen from the Koli Equestrian Center

The drive stretches over open desert and farm fields, past the Wild Horse Pass Casino, the Whirlwind Golf Course and the Aji Spa before approaching the hotel.

This 500-room resort is only a few years old, but its celebration of centuries-old culture can be felt and seen everywhere from the moment you enter the property.

Wild Horse Pass Resort is designed to look like an adobe pueblo.

With four stories and a long profile with several wings, the hotel’s layout reminded us of Las Vegas resorts.

It can be a bit confusing as the hallways are long and twist and turn, and not all elevators go to all floors.

Unlike Vegas, however, Wild Horse Pass Resort’s grounds are landscaped to harmonize with the surrounding desert and include native plants such as mesquite and palo verde trees and desert grasses.

Sunset along the recreated Gila River, lush with streamside plants, at Wild Horse Pass Resort

Behind the resort, the tribes have recreated a 2.5 mile replica of the Gila River that winds its way along the resort grounds.

Step inside Wild Horse Pass Resort and you’ll see that it’s quite unique, compared to other Arizona resorts.

The look and feel is completely Native American, from the soft tan and terra cotta colors to the symbols of the tribes incorporated into every design detail.

The Gila River Community had a 13-member cultural-theming committee who chose and approved all design features to accurately reflect the tribes' history, art and culture.

From baskets and pottery to paintings and musical instruments, Pima and Maricopa artwork can be found in every hallway and room.

Wild Horse Pass Resort’s lobby has colorful murals and a rock waterfall

The large, spacious, split level lobby has floor-to-ceiling windows with beautiful views of the Sierra Estrella and South Mountain Ranges.

Dominating this open and airy space is a tall, rock waterfall and stream that carries the soothing sound of water throughout the entire room.

One of the first things we noticed in the lobby was the ceiling dome, which is covered with a colorful 10-panel mural by Pima artist Penrose Fulwilder.

These beautiful panels depict many aspects of the tribes’ traditions including hunting, dancing, planting, and the importance of both elders and children to the future of the community.

Although the resort was busy with people, there was an ever-present air of tranquility.

Our room at Wild Horse Pass Resort

The tasteful wood furniture had tile inlays decorated with petroglyph-like symbols of tortoises, coyotes and deer.

One wall had a lovely painting of gourds by one of our favorite artists, Michael Chiago, a member of the Tohono O’odham tribe.

Our room was spacious and comfortable.

Room amenities included a Sheraton Sweet Sleeper bed, high-speed Internet access (fee) and coffee and tea maker.

Another added perk is that every room has a truly private patio or balcony with a table and chairs for relaxing and enjoying the views.

We had booked a room with a view overlooking the resort’s river and the Sierra Estrella and South Mountains beyond.

Our balcony overlooked the river and golf course

It was well worth the slight extra expense.

A very nice touch to the room was the inclusion of "Himdag-Yemathoy" (Way of Life), a book published by the Gila River Indian Community.

It describes in detail the process and thinking behind the creation of Wild Horse Pass as well as the history and culture of the two tribes.

With large, full-color photos and moving text, it’s a lovely book, and we were very pleased that it was provided for visitor use.

The deluxe guest room bathroom

The bathroom had a clean-lined, almost Art Deco style in black and white colors with tribal symbols.

We liked the separate tub and glass-enclosed shower stall. However, we could have used more counter space.

If you need extra space like we did, you can place your personal toiletries on top of the minibar just outside the bathroom.

We were also disappointed to find Pantene brand toiletries.

At a resort, we expect something nicer that what we could by a grocery store. We would have liked something that reflected the desert Southwest.

Looking toward the South Mountains from Wild Horse Pass

As a tribal member, the cultural concierge provides first-hand knowledge of the centuries-old lifeways and history of the Gila River Community.

Wild Horse Pass is the only resort in the U.S. to have a cultural concierge.

The cultural concierge is available to answer questions and give tours of the resort.

If you choose to take a tour, the concierge will guide you through the resort.

Using the many arts and crafts, historical artifacts and paintings, the concierge brings to life the history of a family-oriented society that relied on their knowledge of nature and the passing on of important cultural rituals to insure a successful existence in the desert.

Guests can take the boat to the spa, golf club and casino

Wild Horse Pass Resort’s recreated Gila River is a wonderful amenity that offers a host of activities.

Guests can take scenic boat rides down the river to the Whirlwind Golf Club and Wild Horse Pass Casino.

The river and the riparian vegetation that grows along it make it a great place for wildlife watching.

During our visit, we saw quail, killdeer, black-necked stilts, ducks and cottontail rabbits.

The 2.5 mile long Interpretive Trail and 1.3 mile roundtrip River Walk Trail follow the river and make for lovely walks with views of the surrounding desert and mountains.

Pools

Surrounded by native plants and the "new" Gila River are the resort’s three main pools, all with cascading waterfalls.

The pool area at Wild Horse Pass Resort

They are grouped together and are located directly behind the lobby.

The fourth pool is at the Aji Spa and is for spa visitors only.

We loved the wonderfully sensuous curves and natural feel of the main pools.

One pool has a 111-foot rock waterslide that is modeled after the nearby ancient, tower-like Casa Grande ruins.

Weekend poolside entertainments include live music and dive-in movies.

If you are feeling adventurous, sign up for a ride at the Koli Equestrian Center.

Horses have long been an important part of the life and history of the Pima people.

In fact, Wild Horse Pass Resort and Casino are named for the wild horses that live in the foothills of the reservation’s mountains.

Today, there are still an estimated 1,500 wild horses in the area.

You may spot the herds on reservation lands south of Chandler, near the Ahwatukee Foothills and around southwestern Phoenix.

Koli celebrates this long association by offering over 1,000 acres of riding trails on the Pima's ancient tribal lands.

You can sign up for guided trail rides or take a riding lesson. But if you’re worried about getting saddle sore, you can always opt for one of the daily Evening Wagon Rides instead.

The Gila River Casino is just a short boat ride away from Wild Horse Pass Resort

For indoor entertainment close to the resort, you can try your luck at the Gila River Casino at Wild Horse Pass.

This is Arizona’s largest casino with 750 slots, live poker, blackjack, a 1,500-seat bingo hall and live local entertainment Thursday through Saturday.

For kids young or old, mosey on over to Rawhide, an authentic recreation of a 1800s town.

Rawhide Old West Town is a popular Phoenix attraction

This long popular Arizona Old West attraction has moved from Scottsdale to just next door to Wild Horse Pass Resort.

Here, you can indulge your inner cowpoke by strolling the wood plank sidewalks, riding the historic Butterfield Stagecoach or watching an Old West stunt show at the Six Gun Theater.

There are many family activities including their backyard barbeque, daily wagon rides, Saturday Night Cinema Splash movies at the pool and a Friday Night Family Reception.

The water slide at Wild Horse Pass Resort was built to resemble ancient ruins

In addition to swimming, the Hanyo Pool hosts kid-favorite activities such as the water balloon toss and a watermelon eating contest.

Nearby, Rawhide has Old West themed activities including mule rides, gold panning,

Kids can also sign up for the Wild Horse Kid’s Club, which provides supervised activities for children 4 to 12 years old.

The Club’s programs integrate Native American culture into classes such as Native American arts and crafts, storytelling and s’mores in the evening.

Options include hourly, half-day and full-day sessions. The full-day session includes lunch.

The Wild Horse Pass Resort spa, called Aji, offers Native American-inspired treatments

Aji is the Pima word for "sanctuary" and this spa definitely captures that feeling.

It is beautifully designed with warm colors, airy rooms, and Native American and nature accents throughout that create a relaxing environment.

Treatments at Aji Spa are based on Native American therapies and culture.

Many use indigenous desert ingredients such as red clay from the Gila River and cholla cactus buds, which are said to help purify and rejuvenate the body.

You can spend the whole day at Aji Spa swimming in the pool or relaxing in one of five whirlpools.

You can also meditate in the Olas Ki, a traditional Pima roundhouse made of mesquite branches.

The Aji Spa Cafe offers juices, smoothies, salads and wraps.

What if you want to use the facilities but don’t want a spa treatment?

Not a problem. Resort guests and even those who aren’t staying at the resort may use the spa for a daily fee.

Golfers enjoy scenic views at the Whirlwind Golf Course

Developed by Gary Panks and managed by Troon Golf, Whirlwind's two courses cover 242 acres, with 92 acres of turf and 160 acres of native desert vegetation.

The nearby South and Estrella Mountain ranges provide a scenic backdrop.

Unlike most other golf courses in the state, Whirlwind has no homes or businesses lining its edges.

The wide open views will make you feel like you have the course all to yourself.

The Devil’s Claw Course is an 18-hole, 7,017 yard, 72-par course with high, rolling hills, deep bunkers and two water holes.

With its player friendly layout and postcard perfect scenery, the Devil’s Claw makes for challenging yet enjoyable play.

The Cattail Course is also 18 holes and 72-par on 7,218 yards. It features deep canyons and lakes.

It is a bit longer than Devil’s Claw and is considered slightly more difficult for the average player.

The Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass Resort

Both golf courses have great mountain views and were designed to reflect the original Gila River landscape as well as preserve the cultural heritage of the community.

Only plants that are indigenous to the Gila River and the surrounding desert are used including cottonwood, mesquite and palo verde trees and saguaro cactus.

Each hole on the course is named after a significant legend or landmark of the Pima and Maricopa Indians.

Whirlwind Golf Club is adjacent to the hotel and was executed with the same attention to detail and cultural sensitivity.

The dining room at Kai Restaurant at Wild Horse Pass Resort

Kai, which means seed in the Pima language (rhymes with "sky") is the signature restaurant.

Award-winning Tucson chef Janos Wilder helped design the menu, which features herbs, native vegetables and fruits that have been locally farmed on the Gila River Indian community.

Many dishes also incorporate native seeds from Native Seeds SEARCH, a Tucson non-profit that helps conserve the seeds and plants that have been grown for centuries by Native American tribes.

The Kai menu features a contemporary approach to Native American cuisine and changes seasonally.

Past menu highlights included:

• Trio of Kai Kones: tuna tartare with spicy remoulade, mesquite smoked beef with celery root and garlic lime aioli and roasted corn and nopalitos with cucumber vinaigrette
• Grilled Tenderloin of Buffalo from the Cheyenne River Tribe with smoked corn purée, barbeque scarlet runner beans, saguaro blossom syrup, cholla buds and seasonal mushrooms
• Wood Grilled TOCA Squash Purée with aji amarillo-scented cotton candy, wild boar bacon nuggets, rio zape beans and maitake mushrooms.

Desserts are just as unique such as the "Purple Haze" Goat’s Milk Cheesecake with mesquite meal crust and hibiscus syrup.

Kai also has a great bread bar that serves specialty breads and cocktails.

Located on the second floor, Kai has lovely outdoor seating with mountain views. Entrées start at $34.

Ko’sin Restaurant is the casual venue with a menu featuring Southwestern and American cuisine.

Even though it’s more casual than its sister restaurant, Kai, the food is just as delicious and artfully prepared and presented.

Dishes such as mesquite grilled pancakes with tart apple butter and prickly pear jelly and native “Louie” seafood salad with Dungeness crabmeat, Mexican onions, tepary beans and chiles over wild mustard greens reflect the area’s diverse ingredients and influences.

Click here to read our Ko’sin Restaurant review.

Wild Horse Pass Resort’s other dining options are:

• The Hanyo Grill: the poolside café, serves sandwiches, salads, nachos, smoothies, and frozen drinks.
• Vasip: Located on the Lower Lobby level, this Starbucks branded coffee bar serves pastries, tea, drinks and snacks.
• Lobby Lounge: offering cocktails, wine, microbrewed beer and appetizers.
• Aji Café: in the Aji Spa serves healthy spa lunches including sandwiches, salads and smoothies.
• Sivlik Grill: is at the Whirlwind Golf Club. Here, diners can have Southwestern cuisine in a casual setting with golf course and mountain views. Breakfast and lunch only.

You can also eat at the Gila River Casino’s Wind Dance Restaurant, which features a seafood bar on Fridays and a Sunday champagne brunch in addition to its regular a la carte and buffet menu.

Our only criticism of the restaurants is that there are very few vegetarian options on the menus, especially at Kai.

Travelers should keep in mind that the resort is somewhat isolated. It’s about a 5 minute drive north to the nearby town of Chandler.

Sunset at the pools at Wild Horse Pass Resort

While the resort is self-contained, those looking for a place with lots of attractions close at hand may find Wild Horse Pass Resort too far removed.

There are no services next to the resort. For these, drive north to Chandler, which is roughly 4 miles from the resort.

Exit either west bound or eastbound at Ray Road in Chandler for grocery stores, gas stations, fast food restaurants and shopping centers.

Booking a Room:
If you want a river view, ask for a room on the west side of the resort. Some rooms on the east side overlook the parking lot.

Parking

The parking at Wild Horse Pass Resort is in a large lot off to the southeast side of the property. Depending on where your room is, it may take a long time to ferry your luggage from the car to the room. We recommend using the bell service if you have more than a few pieces of luggage.

Dining:
The resort’s restaurant prices are comparable to other area resorts, which means prices are considerably higher than McDonald’s or Denny’s. If prices are a concern, you can eat in Chandler, about 5 miles north of the resort. See location tip above for more details.

Note that Kai restaurant may have a summer closure during the last few weeks in August. Call ahead for verification.

Favorite Features:   Integration of Native American culture into every element; desert setting and mountain views; recreated Gila River; good service; nice pools; good food.

What We Didn’t Like:   Few vegetarian options on menus; needed more counter space in the bathroom and better toiletries; Vasip Coffee Bar is not open all day.

Service:   Service was very good. Everyone has always been very friendly and helpful. Their check-in process was one of the quickest and most efficient that we’ve ever had. The spa staff is particularly welcoming and knowledgeable.

Good for Kids:   Yes, this a family friendly resort with plenty of activities. Kids will love the waterslide and horseback riding.

Pet Friendly:   Yes, with $100 deposit.

Location:   Gila River Indian Community, just south of Chandler and 11.5 miles south of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

Address:   5594 West Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler, AZ 85226

Google Map Directions: Click on "+" and "-" signs on Map Controls in upper left hand corner to zoom in and out on the location.

Management:   Starwood Hotels and Resorts

Style:   Native American/Southwestern

Room Types:   500 standard and deluxe guestrooms

Book a room at the Sheraton Resort & Spa

Cost:
In-Season Rates: $$$$$
Summer Rates: $$ to $$$
Occupancy Tax: 10%
Go to Cost Key

Extra Fees:    No resort fee. There is a daily fee for using the spa facilities without a spa treatment of $20 per day or $45 per stay (up to 7 days) for resort guests and $35 per day for non-resort guests.

High speed internet access is $10 for 24 hours from time you connect.

Early Departure: $50 early departure fee if you leave prior to scheduled departure.

Check In / Check Out:    4 pm / 12 Noon

Room Service:   24 hour room service. Note that a linited menu is available from Midnight to 5:00 am.

Views/Setting:   Desert, mountain and golf course views.

Pools:   Four, one with waterslide. The pool at the Aji Spa is private and for use by spa visitors only.

Restaurants:   Eight dining options -
Kai Restaurant has a gourmet menu that features a contemporary approach to Native American cuisine; dinner only. Entrées start at $34.

Ko’sin Restaurant is a casual venue with Southwestern and American dishes; serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast specialties start around $10. Dinner entrées begin around $24.

Aji Spa Café: has healthy spa cuisine with salads, sandwiches and smoothies. Lunch items only; $8 -$14. Open Sunday – Thursday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm and Friday – Saturday 10:00am - 6:00pm.

Hanyo Grill is the poolside bar and restaurant serving light lunch fare and drinks. Items range from $8.50 - $14.

Vasip Coffee Bar has Starbucks brand coffee and tea, pastries, snacks and drinks. Open 6:00 am – 10:30 am Monday – Friday and 6:00 am – Noon Saturday and Sunday.

The Lobby Bar offers Southwestern style hors d’oeuvres (starting at $11) and cocktails ($8 and up).

Sivlik Grill is located at Whirlwind Golf Club; open for breakfast and lunch. Breakfast items range from $5 - $8. Lunch entrées start at $7.

Wind Dance Restaurant: inside the nearby Gila River Casino.

Spa:   The Aji Spa features signature Native American treatments and therapies using indigenous ingredients. Treatments start at $50 for a mulled cider manicure to $185 for the Blue Coyote Wrap.

The daily fee for using the facilities without a spa treatment is $20 per day or $45 per stay (up to 7 days) for resort guests and $35 per day for non-resort guests.

Golf:   Whirlwind Golf Club has two courses plus a clubhouse with its own restaurant, the Sivlik Grill. Rates start at $115 in spring and $60 June through September (both based on reservations made no sooner than 7 days in advance).

Individual guests of Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort may make their reservations up to 90 days in advance and receive the 7 day rate. All rounds include golf cart, practice balls, bag tag, repair tool and yardage guide.

Activities:   Swimming, golf, horseback riding, casino, hiking, Rawhide Old West Town, fitness center inside Aji Spa (fee for use).

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