We will be hiking two miles out and two miles back on the Go John trail on the search for unique native plant species as well as other wildlife. The trail can be rocky, steep, and uneven in places, so it is recommended you wear close-toed shoes with good ankle support. Please dress for the [...]

Join Ranger Nikki on a 5.5-mile easy to moderate hike at sunrise to see and hear the sounds of the morning desert. We will watch for birds, mammals and reptiles as the sun rises and the day warms up. The route follows San Tan and Hedgehog Trails. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen [...]

Learn about birds of Sonoran Desert and migrant birds on this walk with Ranger Eric. We will meet at the Beardsley Trailhead off of Beardsley CSR Rd., accessed on the north side of Hwy. 74 immediately east of the highway bridge over the Agua Fria River (see map: https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/assets/1/6/lake-pleasant-8x111.pdf). We will hike on the Beardsley Trail [...]

Join park volunteer Chris Reed on this easy 2 mile hike up the Waterfall Trail and step back in time to see the hidden treasures along this partially barrier-free interpretive trail. See ancient Hohokam petroglyphs and perhaps even some wildlife! Please wear a hat and/or sunscreen and sturdy footwear. Please bring plenty of water and [...]

Join Ranger Eric for a guided, hike along the Cottonwood Trail to look for reptiles of the Sonoran Desert. Along the way, we will discuss identification tips, their ecological roles, and safety around venomous animals. We will hike 2.4 miles roundtrip on mostly easy terrain, but with occasionally rocky or uneven surfaces. Restrooms are available [...]

Starting from the nature center we will head up the Overton Trail for 3.1 miles. This trail is considered moderately challenging and will gain 500 ft of elevation. The trail will take you past towering saguaro cacti and offers sweeping views of the Phoenix Valley and the neighboring Tonto National Forest. The trails can be [...]

Join Ranger Kevin for a 3.1-mile hike on the Blevins Trail. Trail is rated easy, with only minimal elevation change. We’ll enjoy the beauty of a quiet outdoor evening, walking through a desert landscape silvered by the moon and stars (weather permitting, of course). We won’t be setting any speed records here; this hike is [...]

Join Ranger Steve for an evening trail walk to look for and learn about the nocturnal critters of the Sonoran Desert! Wildlife seen on past walks have included snakes, bats, ringtails, foxes, skunks, javelinas, burros, deer, owls, scorpions, insects, and other cool creepy crawlies! Please bring your own flashlights and blacklights if you have them. [...]