The Insomniac Night Trail Run Series consists of six night runs throughout the Maricopa County Regional Parks from April through September. It's our way of escaping the summer heat while continuing to race and experience both familiar and unfamiliar trails in a different light. Distances range from 5 kilometers to 75 kilometers. Save 20-25% on registration when [...]
Do you like observing nature? Then make your observations count! The City Nature Challenge is a friendly worldwide competition among cities to see whose residents can spot and identify the most wildlife. Join the CNC and become a community scientist!
About the Event For adult women in a fun, safe environment. Learn fishing, hunting, kayaking,hiking, rappelling and camping. Includes evening activities, meals and lodging. Fee required. Location: Prescott Area Hosted by: Arizona Wildlife Federation Register: www.azwildlife.org/bow/, (480) 201-7456, bow@azwildlife.org
About the Event For adult women in a fun, safe environment. Learn fishing, hunting, kayaking, hiking, rappelling and camping. Includes evening activities, meals and lodging. Fee required. Location: Prescott Area Hosted by: Arizona Wildlife Federation Register: www.azwildlife.org/bow/, (480) 201-7456, bow@azwildlife.org
Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline. Date- Every Monday from 4/10/23-10/30/23 Time – April 7:00am-9:00am May-Oct 6:00am-8:00am Location – Park at Castle Hot Springs dirt lot near the entry station. Meet with Park Assistant Doug [...]
To celebrate the second year of Aravaipa's iconic 250-mile trail race, the Cocodona 250, we're bringing a slice of Arizona to you! Inspired by the week-long in-person event, the Cocodona Virtual Experience is your chance to rack up 250+ miles on your local trails or treadmill, starting the same day the in-person racers hit the [...]
Learn about birds of Sonoran Desert riparian areas during this guided hike with Ranger Eric. Click on program title for more details. Join Ranger Eric for a guided hike along the Dragonfly Trail at Spur Cross and adjacent Jewel of the Creek Preserve to look for birds of the Sonoran Desert and riparian habitats. Along [...]
Join Ranger Eric for a guided hike along the Dragonfly Trail at Spur Cross and adjacent Jewel of the Creek Preserve to look for reptiles of the Sonoran Desert and riparian habitats. Along the way, we will discuss identification tips, as well as their ecological roles and safety around venomous animals. We will hike about [...]
Join Ranger Nikki for a 3-mile hike on the easy to moderate terrain to learn about a variety of plant life, including brittlebush and bursage shrubs, cacti and legume trees. The route follows Butterfield, Dysart and Coldwater Trails. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water. Restrooms are available at the trailhead [...]
Maricopa County Parks is hosting several native seed harvest events in April and May at several of our parks. The native seed harvested will be planted in habitat enhancement projects, invasive species removal areas, and parks impacted by wildfires. Collecting and planting local seed genotypes will help maintain the park's biodiversity and sustainability through climate [...]
What makes a cactus a cactus? How can plants survive scorching temperatures? Can you eat Cactus? Get the answers to these questions on Ranger Evan’s Crazy for Cacti walk. This loop begins at the Blevins Trailhead located at the Trail Staging Area (east side of the park). We will be hiking approximately 3 miles, with [...]
The hike will follow sections of the Spur Cross and Metate Trails for 3 miles as the path moves from desert landscape down into riparian habitat. Hikers will be rewarded with impressive Saguaro Cacti and a variety of cholla species. The trail is rated as easy, but it can be sandy and rocky at times [...]
Join Ranger Nikki to learn all about desert tortoises and watch Tierra the Tortoise enjoy her breakfast. Learn all about desert tortoises during an indoor class and activity session with Ranger Nikki. You can also watch as Estrella’s resident tortoise ambassador, Tierra, enjoys her leafy green breakfast. Meeting Location: Nature Center Classroom Limit 25 participants. [...]
A permitted mountain bike racing event will be occurring in the park. The event will be staged out of the Four Peaks Lot, parking will take place in Four Peaks and use the following trails: Small portion of Pemberton, Scenic, Cinch, Shallmo Wash, & Escondido The inbound lane on the main park road will be closed for [...]
Maricopa County Parks-Desert Defenders-Native Seed Harvest Maricopa County Parks is hosting several native seed harvest events in April and May at several of our parks. The native seed harvested will be planted in habitat enhancement projects, invasive species removal areas, and parks impacted by wildfires. Collecting and planting local seed genotypes will help maintain the [...]
Maricopa County Parks-Desert Defenders-Native Seed Harvest Maricopa County Parks is hosting several native seed harvest events in April and May at several of our parks. The native seed harvested will be planted in habitat enhancement projects, invasive species removal areas, and parks impacted by wildfires. Collecting and planting local seed genotypes will help maintain the [...]
Would you like to learn more about birdwatching and community science? Join Ranger Eric for a "Big Sit" style bird count in the front garden at the Visitor Center as we learn about birds and learn about community science, using eBird. We will discuss basic bird identification tips and counting methods. Bird feeders are located [...]
Join Ranger Eric to look for and learn about aquatic life in the Hassayampa River and Palm Lake with a guided walk and then classroom microscope activities to get close-up views of animals and plants. This is geared towards homeschoolers ages 6-12, but all ages welcome. Minors must be accompanied by an adult guardian. Please [...]
Come to the Nature Center and meet Ranger Kevin from 5:00pm to 6:30pm. The theme is Sonoran Desert Artifacts, so bring your curiosity and your questions! A table full of interesting objects will be on hand for you to inspect. No registration required, just drop on in! MEETING LOCATION: Back patio of Nature Center.
About the Event For families that have little to no experience camping. Learn the basics of AZ's State Parks, and about hiking, archery, geocaching, fishing, local wildlife, campfire stories, bike clinic, service projects, and more. Fee required. Hosted by: Arizona State Parks
Join Ranger Eric to look for and learn about the resident and migratory birds of the Sonoran Desert on this easy to moderate 3.4-mile roundtrip hike. Along the way, we will also discuss ecology of the desert and how birds are adapted to this arid environment. Spring songbird migration will be at peak and the [...]
GENERAL INFORMATION: The XC series finale. Riders will be at altitude and can expect pine trees plus some descending that will keep you grinning ear to ear! DIRECTIONS/CAMPING: Camping/parking is limited at this venue. Camping is permitted on National Forest Land near Fort Valley trailhead if you take the 164B road north. There is also [...]
Join Ranger Kevin for a 3.7-mile hike along the Go John, Quartz, Slate and Jasper Trails. We’ll be pausing to look at what’s blooming in the desert (shrubs, cactus, trees, and maybe even some wildflowers) as well as butterflies and other animals along the way. The trail is rated moderate with some sections of loose [...]
Did you know that over 300 species of birds have been found at the Hassayampa River Preserve? Enjoy an easy-paced walk with seasoned birder and bird bander Anne Leight to spot and identify the many resident and migratory birds of the Preserve. Some binoculars are available to borrow. MEETING LOCATION: Visitor Center. Limit 10 participants. To register, please call [...]
Interpretive walk led by docents of the Friends of the San Pedro River. The San Pedro House, a 1930’s-era converted ranch house operating as a gift and bookstore, leads guided interpretive walks/hikes along the river and throughout the adjacent area, presents educational programs to schools and community groups, and assists the BLM in a variety [...]
New to the Desert? Want to learn more about the desert environment? Want to go for a splendid hike? If the answer is yes, then this hike is perfect for you! Bring plenty of water and wear closed-toe shoes. We will be hiking in total about 3.5 miles. Bathrooms are available near the parking lot. [...]
Join Ranger Eric for a guided bird walk to look and listen for resident and migrant species within the diverse desert riparian habitat of the Hassayampa River Preserve. This time of year is peak spring songbird migration, so high species diversity and rarities might be found! Along the way we will discuss how to identify [...]
Join Ranger Eric for a guided hike to look for reptiles of the Sonoran Desert and riparian habitats along the Preserve’s trails! Along the way, we will discuss identification tips, their ecological roles, and safety around venomous animals. We will hike about 1 mile, with some sandy or uneven surfaces. Please wear protective clothing or [...]
Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline. Date- Every Monday from 4/10/23-10/30/23 Time – April 7:00am-9:00am May-Oct 6:00am-8:00am Location – Park at Castle Hot Springs dirt lot near the entry station. Meet with Park Assistant Doug [...]
Fishing Utah's Green River - Scott Barrus is the owner/operator of Spinner Fall Guide Service on Utah’s Green River. Scott became sole owner in 2010 and has built his company with a focus on teaching and an emphasis on dry fly fishing. When he’s not rowing the river, you can find Scott hiking, camping, snowboarding, [...]
Join docent Coni for a 2-3 mile hike through the conservation area. We will hike in riparian areas with seasonal water in Cave Creek. Learn about cochineal, agave, mesquite, prickly pear, and we may see wildlife, petroglyphs, wildflowers, and maybe taste some wolfberries….and yes – all with wonderful views! Wear sturdy shoes and hat and bring [...]
Join Ranger Kevin for an approximately 2.6-mile hike along the Gila, Baseline, Toothaker and Horseshoe Trails. We’ll be pausing to admire and sing the praises of the saguaros, chollas, barrels (and more!) that grow in this part of the Sonoran Desert on this, National Cactus Day. We’ll also talk about some of the amazing adaptations [...]
This Homeschool Happenings event will focus on many different kinds of cactus that live in the Sonoran Desert. Come along on this learning adventure as we explore the things that make cactus special and how they help the other desert plants and animals survive. Then we’ll head outside on a cactus safari and see how [...]
About the Event Our popular series of educator webinars focused on hard-to-love wildlife species continues. They are sometimes called the unlovables. A variety of animals that people find incredibly difficult to love and appreciate. Maybe it is the way they look or how they behave. Maybe it is just misconceptions. Whatever the reason, many people [...]
Want to get a good work out and learn a lot? If the answer is yes, then this program is perfect for you. Join Ranger Evan for a splendid 3.0-mile hike through the desert on Wind Cave Trail! On this difficult level hike, we will be discussing the unique ecology of the Sonoran Desert, adaptations [...]
Maricopa County Parks is hosting several native seed harvest events in April and May at several of our parks. The native seed harvested will be planted in habitat enhancement projects, invasive species removal areas, and parks impacted by wildfires. Collecting and planting local seed genotypes will help maintain the park's biodiversity and sustainability through climate [...]
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 [...]
Stop by the Nature Center to see a display of desert cacti specimens and learn about efforts to catalog plant species in the County Parks using the iNaturalist citizen science app. Meeting Location: Nature Center. No registration required, just drop on in!
We will be working on prison camp for our May work day. When/Where: Meet at Molino Basin at 7 am. What to bring: -Long work pants or jeans (no shorts or yoga pants please) -Closed toe shoes/work boots -Long sleeve shirts (recommended but not required) -Eye protection -Hat -Pack with at least 100oz [...]
Join Ranger Nikki for a 3-mile hike on the easy terrain of North Trail to learn about a variety of plant life, including brittlebush and bursage shrubs, cacti and legume trees. Restrooms are available the nearby picnic area and water is available at the Nature Center. MEETING LOCATION: North Trail Trailhead (approximately 4 miles from [...]
Join Ranger Eric for a guided bird walk to look and listen for resident and migrant species within the diverse desert riparian habitat of the Hassayampa River Preserve. Today is eBird Global Big Day, a 24-hour citizen science event dedicated to getting birders into the field across the world to count birds of all species! [...]
What makes a cactus a cactus? How can plants survive scorching temperatures? Can you eat Cactus? Get the answers to these questions on Ranger Evan’s Crazy for Cacti walk. We will be hiking approximately 3 miles, with some significant elevation changes. Please bring plenty of water and wear closed-toe shoes, no pets please. Restrooms will [...]
Maricopa County Parks-Desert Defenders-Native Seed Harvest Maricopa County Parks is hosting several native seed harvest events in April and May at several of our parks. The native seed harvested will be planted in habitat enhancement projects, invasive species removal areas, and parks impacted by wildfires. Collecting and planting local seed genotypes will help maintain the [...]
Join Ranger Nikki on a 4.5-mile hike on easy to moderate terrain to search for saguaro blossoms and other flowering cacti such as cholla and barrel. The route will follow San Tan, Hedgehog, San Tan and Moonlight Trails. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water. Restrooms and water are available [...]
Join Ranger Eric for an easy-paced, guided walk along the Preserve trails to learn about the plants, animals, ecology, and history of the Hassayampa River Preserve. Please wear sun protection and carry ample water. Binoculars are available to borrow at the Visitor Center. We will hike about 1 mile on mostly flat, but occasionally sandy [...]
Join Ranger Eric to learn about the Preserve’s historic stand of California fan palms, how these tropical trees are able to grow in the desert Southwest, and their importance to both wildlife and indigenous cultures. Did you know that these palms were sourced from a native population in Arizona? Find out more! We will be [...]
Join Ranger Steve for an evening of Stargazing above the shoreline of Lake Pleasant. A selection of celestial objects will be viewed through the telescope, along with a discussion of various topics in astronomy (bring your questions!) and various objects of interest will be pointed out with a green laser. MEETING LOCATION: Discovery Center Parking [...]
Learn about the resident and migrant birds of desert riparian areas on this guided walk with Ranger Eric. Click on program title for more details. Join Ranger Eric for a guided bird walk to look and listen for resident and migrant species within the diverse desert riparian habitat of the Hassayampa River Preserve. Along the [...]
Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline. Date- Every Monday from 4/10/23-10/30/23 Time – April 7:00am-9:00am May-Oct 6:00am-8:00am Location – Park at Castle Hot Springs dirt lot near the entry station. Meet with Park Assistant Doug [...]
Join docent Coni for a 2-3 mile hike through the conservation area. We will hike in riparian areas with seasonal water in Cave Creek. Learn about cochineal, agave, mesquite, prickly pear, and we may see wildlife, petroglyphs, wildflowers, and maybe taste some wolfberries….and yes – all with wonderful views! Wear sturdy shoes and hat and bring [...]
Join Ranger Evan on one of the toughest trails in the park and learn about the desert along the way. We will meet at the Go John Trailhead to start this hike. The Go John Trail is nearly 5.8 miles, so make sure you bring plenty of water and pack a snack for this one. [...]
About the Event Doors open at 6 p.m. and the seminar starts at 7 p.m. Seating is limited. Raffles, door prizes, refreshments, etc. Food donation for raffle. Location: TBD (Ben Avery used as placeholder) Hosted by: Christian Hunters of America, Phoenix Varmint Callers, Inc. Info: David, (602) 309-3430, davidmyrick@christianhuntersofamerica.org
Come learn what plants call the Pemberton trail home! This hike will be approximately 3 miles and is an out and back trail. Meet at the Trailhead Staging Area (at the picnic tables by the hilltop trail); bathrooms are available near the parking lot. NO pets please. Limit 20 participants. To register, please call the [...]
Join Ranger Steve in the San Tan Nature Center to discuss the differences between venom and poison, common myths about snakes and other venomous animals, and how they are beneficial to the ecosystem. We’ll also have some ambassador animals on hand, so bring your questions and your curiosity! MEETING LOCATION: Nature Center No Registration Required.
Join Ranger Steve for an evening of Stargazing in San Tan Mountain Regional Park. A selection of celestial objects will be viewed through the telescope, along with a discussion of various topics in astronomy (bring your questions!) and various objects of interest will be pointed out with a green laser. MEETING LOCATION: Nature Center Parking [...]
Join Ranger Nikki on a 3-mile hike on easy terrain to learn about a variety of desert plants, including shrubs, cacti and legume trees. The route will follow NoSo, Levee and Blevins Trails. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water. Water is available at the Nature Center and restrooms area [...]
Maricopa County Parks-Desert Defenders-Native Seed Harvest Maricopa County Parks is hosting several native seed harvest events in April and May at several of our parks. The native seed harvested will be planted in habitat enhancement projects, invasive species removal areas, and parks impacted by wildfires. Collecting and planting local seed genotypes will help maintain the [...]
What makes a cactus a cactus? How can plants survive scorching temperatures? Can you eat Cactus? Get the answers to these questions on Ranger Evans Crazy for Cacti walk. We will hike approximately 2-3 miles, please bring sturdy footwear and lots of water. MEETING LOCATION: Nature Center To register, please call the Cave Creek Nature [...]
Ranger Nikki will lead a talk on coyotes that live in our desert and sometimes visit our neighborhoods. Learn about their life cycle, diet, habitat and more. This talk takes place in the Nature Center classroom. Water and restrooms are available at the Nature Center. MEETING LOCATION: Nature Center No registration required.
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, deer, owls, scorpions, insects, and other cool creepy crawlies! Please bring your own flashlights and blacklights if you have them. Please [...]
Join Ranger Nikki on a 6-mile hike to learn about San Tan Park and local history, including prehistoric residents, mining and “Mountain Man” Mansel Carter. The route follows the Goldmine to Dynamite loop starting at the Nature Center. The ascent and descent of Goldmine Mountain are rated difficult and the remainder of the trails are [...]
Drop by to meet Ranger Steve in the White Tank Nature Center to learn about the venomous animals that inhabit the Park. We’ll discuss the differences between venom and poison, common myths about snakes and other venomous animals, and how they are beneficial to the ecosystem. We’ll also have some ambassador animals on hand, so [...]
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, deer, owls, scorpions, insects, and other cool creepy crawlies! Please bring your own flashlights and blacklights if you have them. Please [...]
Are you interested in learning more about properly monitoring, maintaining and constructing trails? Are you a steward of the Arizona Trail or are you interested in helping out with trail projects? Do you like to get your hands dirty while learning valuable skills at the same time? If you answered “yes” to any [...]
About the Event For families that have little to no experience camping. Learn the basics of AZ's State Parks, and about hiking, archery, geocaching, fishing, local wildlife, campfire stories, bike clinic, service projects, and more. Fee required. Hosted by: Arizona State Parks
Experience the beauty of McDowell Mountain Regional Park on an array of fun and fast courses at the Adrenaline Night Runs. Our 6K distance is perfect for first time night trail runners and the challenging 10K will push those ready for a new challenge. This race is part of the 2023 Insomniac Night Trail Run Series with [...]
Come on a strenuous 4.5-mile hike through the White Tank Mountains on the search for great views and the unique elephant trees that dot the hillsides. The trail is considered difficult and during our hike will gain 900ft of elevation. The hike will take several hours, so please bring plenty of water (at least 3 [...]
Join Ranger Nikki on a 3.5-mile hike on easy terrain to explore our fascinating Sonoran Desert in search of flowering saguaros and other cactus blooms such as cholla and barrels. The route includes Lost Sheep, Moon Rock and Chain Fruit Trails. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring water, a hat and sunscreen. Water and restrooms are [...]
Come join us for a quiet walk along our easy to moderate scenic trails in search of local and migratory birds. "Vultures" program will follow inside the Nature Center. Meet for the bird walk on the back patio of the Cave Creek Regional Park Nature Center at 7:00am. No dogs allowed. Registration is required for this program. Attendance is [...]
May 20 Saturday, 7 am Cave Creek Regional Park, Program to Follow, “Vultures” or “Flowers that fire the imagination “
Interpretive walk led by docents of the Friends of the San Pedro River. The San Pedro House, a 1930’s-era converted ranch house operating as a gift and bookstore, leads guided interpretive walks/hikes along the river and throughout the adjacent area, presents educational programs to schools and community groups, and assists the BLM in a variety [...]
Come join Ranger Kevin as we hike the 3 miles along Yavapai Point Trail. We'll be stopping to look at various plants and animals as we make our way to the top, where a spectacular view of Lake Pleasant awaits us. This trail is rated moderate, with some sections of loose, rocky terrain and substantial [...]
Join Ranger Derik on the 2.6-mile Baseline Trail. We will be meeting at the Nature Center and heading out as a group from there. The trail is rocky and uneven so it is encouraged that everyone wear sturdy close toed shoes and appropriate clothing for the weather. The nature center has bathrooms and well as [...]
A discover station with real samples of cacti, as well as pictures of fruits and flowers, will be on display for several hours in the Nature Center. A ranger will be present to answer any of your Sonoran Desert questions. Coloring pages will also be available for kids to take home. No registration required, just [...]
Come to the Discovery Center and meet Ranger Kevin from 12 pm to 2 pm. The theme is Sonoran Desert Artifacts, so bring your curiosity and your questions! A table full of interesting objects will be on hand for you to inspect. No registration required, just drop on in! MEETING LOCATION: Main lobby of Discovery [...]
Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline. Date- Every Monday from 4/10/23-10/30/23 Time – April 7:00am-9:00am May-Oct 6:00am-8:00am Location – Park at Castle Hot Springs dirt lot near the entry station. Meet with Park Assistant Doug [...]
This hike will be a long, but very rewarding hike with elevation change and rocky terrain. Please bring lots of water, hiking shoes/boots, and sun protection. MEETING LOCATION: Pass Mountain Trailhead at trailhead staging area. Limit 15 participants. To register, please call the Nature Center at (602) 506-2930 ext. 4 with your name, phone number [...]
Join Ranger Kevin on one of the toughest trails in the park and learn about the desert along the way. We will meet at the Go John Trailhead to start this hike. The Go John Trail is nearly 5.8 miles, so make sure you bring plenty of water and pack a snack for this one. [...]
Join Ranger Nikki on a 3.5-mile hike to learn about desert plants, shrubs and legume trees. The loop route includes South, Mule Deer and Bajada Trails. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring water, a hat and sunscreen. Restrooms are available at the trailhead and water is available at the Nature Center. MEETING LOCATION: Area 1 at [...]
Ranger Nikki will lead a talk on coyotes that live in our desert and sometimes visit our neighborhoods. Learn about their life cycle, diet, habitat and more. This talk takes place in the Nature Center classroom. Water and restrooms are available at the Nature Center. MEETING LOCATION: Nature Center No registration required.
Come to the Nature Center and meet Ranger Kevin from 1 pm to 2:30 pm. The theme is Sonoran Desert Artifacts, so bring your curiosity and your questions! A table full of interesting objects will be on hand for you to inspect. No registration required, just drop on in! MEETING LOCATION: Nature Center main lobby.
Join Ranger Nikki on a 3-mile easy to moderate hike to hear and see the desert come to life. We will watch for birds, jackrabbits, coyotes, lizards and more. The route follows San Tan, Stargazer and Moonlight Trails plus the park’s Service Road. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water. [...]
Come join Ranger Kevin as we hike approximately 2.6 miles along the Spur Cross, Metate and Fairy Duster Loop Trails. Trails are rated easy, with a few sections of loose, rocky terrain and some elevation change. We'll be stopping to look at various plants and animals and talk about Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area. Be [...]
Take some time away from the water and get immersed in the surrounding desert with Ranger Derik as you learn about the native plant and animal species that call the Sonoran Desert home. Hike the 3-miles Yavapai Point Trail through saguaro and teddy bear cholla cacti. The trail is rocky and uneven at times, so [...]
Join Ranger Evan on a 2-mile moderate hike to learn all about cacti: saguaro, cholla, prickly pear, barrel and more. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring water, a hat and sunscreen. MEETING LOCATION: Nature Center Limit 20 participants. To register, please call the Nature Center at (602) 506-2930 ext. 6 with your name, phone number and [...]
Come learn about cacti of the Sonoran Desert and Phoenix area! Ranger Eric will host this discovery station table at the San Tan Nature Center. Nearby there are live examples of a variety of cacti to see on the trails next to the center. MEETING LOCATION: Nature Center No registration required. Just drop in anytime [...]
The AZT VETS (Veteran Engagement / Trail Stewardship) and Coronado National Forest Service are hosting this Veteran Volunteer Work Weekend on Passage 11A of the Arizona Trail, working to improve the tread from Gordon Hirabayashi Campground to Sycamore Reservoir. This is also a sacred time for our veteran community as we celebrate the lives [...]
May 27, Saturday, 6:30 AM White Tank Regional Park, Program to Follow, “Birds of History and Animation”
Come walk among some of the White Mountain’s most beautiful wildflowers in a forest setting and around a beautiful spring. Each month’s hike promises new surprises! Suggested donation of $10 for adults Kids and Members FREE
Fine art photographer, Lloyd Pentecost, will present a program for beginning nature and wildlife photographers at the Nature Center. His program will be on Saturday, May 27th at 11 am. Members are admitted free and non-members are asked to make a $10 donation to help support the Nature Center.
Snakes!! Scorpions!! Black Widows!! Are you scared yet? If you said yes, then this program is perfect for you to come learn the benefits of these critters, and why we would want to learn how to live with them. MEETING LOCATION: Usery Nature Center Limit 20 participants. To register, please call the Nature Center at [...]
National Trails Day is June 3 but we will be celebrating all weekend long with a backcountry work event on passage 1. Nestled in the Huachuca Mountains, this is beautiful land of aspens, firs, and pines with sweeping views across grasslands into Mexico! We will meet at the Sunnyside Canyon Trailhead Thursday morning. From there, [...]
Learn about the adaptations and life cycles of plants and animals of our Sonoran Desert on a moderate to easy hike with Ranger Nikki. The route is just over 2 miles and follows Quail, Saddle, Baseline and Gila Trails and part of Casey Abbott Drive (paved) back to the Nature Center. Wear closed-toe shoes and [...]
Join Ranger Nikki for a fun bat chat to bust some popular myths and set the record straight on an important member of our desert ecosystem. Learn where bats live, what they eat, why you shouldn’t be afraid of them and more! Bring water and snacks to this indoor classroom presentation. Restrooms and water are [...]
The Spotlight program creates opportunities for communities to be the solution to conservation issues. Be part of this on the ground action to protect and preserve the White Mountains. Programming details are being formulated now, but you will not want to miss this chance to learn about Leave No Trace and its impact on conservation [...]
Join Ranger Eric to look for and learn about the resident and migratory birds of the Sonoran Desert on this easy to moderate 1-2 mile roundtrip hike (distance will depend on heat and participant interest). Along the way, we will also discuss ecology of the desert and how birds are adapted to this arid environment. [...]
8AM Registration, Donuts and Coffee 8:15 - 9:30AM Leace No Trace Ice Breaker Activity (20 min. per group) 8:30 AM - Noon Service Project – Trail Building Demo, Safety talk, Trail Building Activity (need to pre-register volunteers into 15 min. time slots, 10 people per slot) 9:30 AM - Noon Leave No Trace Presentation for [...]
Come learn about cacti of the Sonoran Desert and Phoenix area! Ranger Eric will host this discovery station table at the White Tank Nature Center. Nearby there are live examples of a variety of cacti to see on the trail next to the center. MEETING LOCATION: Nature Center No registration required. Just drop in anytime [...]
Join Ranger Kevin in the main lobby of the Discovery Center for a fun and fact-filled foray into the lives of a variety of desert animals. We’ll even have some of our animal ambassadors available to meet. Bring your curiosity and your questions! This is a drop-in program, so feel free to stop in anytime [...]
Are you interested in learning more about properly monitoring, maintaining and constructing trails? Are you a steward of the Arizona Trail or are you interested in helping out with trail projects? Do you like to get your hands dirty while learning valuable skills at the same time? If you answered “yes” to any of these [...]
The hike will follow the 2-mile Dragonfly Trail in the Jewel of the Creek Preserve. The trail is rated as easy but does have a few small hill climbs so make sure to wear shoes with good ankle support or bring trekking poles if you need a little help. The trails feature large cottonwood trees, [...]
Did you know that over 300 species of birds have been found at the Hassayampa River Preserve? Enjoy an easy-paced walk with seasoned birder and bird bander Anne Leight to spot and identify the many resident and migratory birds of the Preserve. Some binoculars are available to borrow. MEETING LOCATION: Visitor Center. Limit 10 participants. To register, please call [...]
Interpretive walk led by docents of the Friends of the San Pedro River. The San Pedro House, a 1930’s-era converted ranch house operating as a gift and bookstore, leads guided interpretive walks/hikes along the river and throughout the adjacent area, presents educational programs to schools and community groups, and assists the BLM in a variety [...]
Arizona is home to the largest contiguous stand of Ponderosa pine in the world! Come learn interesting biological and cultural facets of Ponderosa pine ecosystems from a retired Forester. ! Suggested donation for adults $10. Kids and members FREE
Summit Hut is celebrating National Trails Day with a thru-hiker tabling and happy hour event (from a variety of trails!). After, author, Derek Lugo, will talk about his book; 'The Unlikely Thru-Hiker'. Appetizers and beer will be available for purchase.
Want to add your event? Go to Build A Nature Walk.