Get out on trails early in the morning and learn about the many cactus species found on sections of Overton, Go John, and Clay Mine trails. The trails are rated as easy but there are some short inclines on sandy and rocky ground so make sure to wear supportive shoes and or carry trekking poles. [...]

Join Ranger Kevin for a roughly 2-mile hike along the Plant Research Trail and the south bank of the Gila River. We’ll explore the riparian habitat for interesting plants and animals while we discuss the importance of rivers like the Gila to the health and diversity of desert life. The trail is easy with very [...]

On this hike, learn about the many adaptations that cacti use to help survive the harsh desert climate. The Lost Sheep Trail is 2.2 miles long and is rated as easy. The trail winds through cacti and washes so it is encouraged that you wear sturdy close toed shoes. There are bathrooms and water fountains [...]

Join Ranger Nikki on a moderate terrain hike to learn about a variety of cacti in the park: saguaros, barrels, cholla, prickly pear and more. The 4.5-mile route uses San Tan, Hedgehog and Moonlight Trails. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water. Restrooms and water are available at the Nature [...]

The hike will wind through rolling hills, sandy washes and desert canyons while offering spectacular views of the Tonto National Forest. During the hike we will learn about the many cacti species that call the park home and how they have adapted to life in the Sonoran Desert. Spur Cross has few amenities and no [...]

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 should want to learn how to live with them. Please feel free to bring your lunch or just a snack to nibble on while you [...]

Join Ranger Kevin for a 2.7-mile night hike on the North Trail. We will be looking for all three species of scorpion native to our neck of the Sonoran Desert: Striped-tail, Bark, and, of course, the Giant Desert Hairy. Who knows what else we may see? Trail is rated easy, with very little loose rock [...]

Join Ranger Nikki on a 1.3-mile easy hike to learn about our fascinating Sonoran Desert and how plants and animals survive, particularly during the summer. The route follows Black Rock Loop. 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. [...]

This short hike with Rangers Evan, Eric, and Shuan is considered very easy but please come prepared for the summer heat! We will be meeting in the Visitor Center and then making are way around Palm Lake. If you enjoy learning about ecology and biology, then this hike is perfect for you! If you just [...]

Join Ranger Nikki for a talk about our desert’s majestic saguaro cacti. Learn about their life cycle from tiny seed to fallen skeleton and all the beneficial things it provides in between. This program will take place inside the Nature Center and venture outside a short distance for firsthand observations. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring [...]

Learn about the Preserve’s historic stand of California fan palms, how these tropical trees can grow in the desert Southwest, and their importance to both wildlife and native cultures. Did you know that these palms were sourced from a native population in Arizona? Find out more! We will be hosting this table inside the air-conditioned [...]

Join us in the pines of Flagstaff for our only night race in Northern Arizona at the Blackout Night Runs. This race takes place on the eve of the annual camping extravaganza at the Big Pine Trail Runs. Do both and earn a "double down" medal! This race is part of the 2023 Insomniac Night Trail [...]

Join Ranger Kevin for an approximately 1.8-mile, out-and-back hike on the Grey Fox Trail. Trail is rated easy, with little elevation change, and little loose rock/uneven terrain. We’ll be searching for the three species of scorpion that inhabit this part of the Sonoran Desert. Afterwards, we’ll take some time to take in the night sky, [...]

We will hike 2 miles along the Pipeline Canyon Trail and stop periodically to take pictures of the plants, animals and landscapes found in the Sonoran Desert. The trail is rated as moderate with gradual elevation gain in sometimes rocky trail. We will be starting early in the morning, but it is encouraged that you [...]

Join Ranger Eric for a guided hike along the Rock Peak Wash 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 2-3 miles roundtrip on easy, but sandy terrain of a desert wash. Please wear protective [...]

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 [...]

Join Ranger Nikki on an easy hike to learn about a variety of cacti: saguaros, barrels, cholla, prickly pear and more. The route is approximately 2 miles long and follows Rainbow Valley, Baseline, Toothaker, and a portion of Butterfield to make a loop using the Arena parking lot. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a hat, [...]

Healthy ecosystems are important to maintain. Enjoy a hike with a Forest Service employee, Christopher Hansen, and learn how the Lakeside District is working to improve forest and aquatic health while protecting our homes from wildfire. Suggested donation for adults of $10 Kids and Members FREE

Join Ranger Nikki for a talk about our desert’s majestic saguaro cacti. Learn about their life cycle from tiny seed to fallen skeleton and all the beneficial things it provides in between. This program will take place inside the Nature Center and venture outside a short distance for firsthand observations. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring [...]

Come learn about cacti of the Sonoran Desert and Phoenix area! Ranger Evan will host this discovery station table at the Usery Nature Center. Nearby there are live examples of a variety of cacti to see on the trail next to the center. No registration required. MEETING LOCATION: Nature Center No registration required. Just drop [...]

Join us for this in person hike with pack goats from Lazy Ranch Pack Goats as part of the nation wide DU Dash! Event Info Balancing Rock Trail (5.7 miles) in the Granite Mountain Wilderness 10:30am - Meet at the Cayuse Equestrian Trailhead & Picnic Area 11am - Start Hike 12pm - Stop halfway for [...]

Author Wynne Brown will take attendees on a visual journey of the life and work of Sara Plummer Lemmon, for whom Arizona’s Mount Lemmon is named. Wynne Brown is a freelance writer/editor/graphic designer based in Tucson on the Arizona lands of the Tohono O’odham Nation and the Pascua Yaqui Tribe. In 2022 her book, The [...]