Get Out & Hike
Compiled By Caitlin Coulter
Learn about hiking and safety while enjoying the beauty of the Sonoran Desert with a group on a guided hike. Registration is required on all listed hikes, unless otherwise noted. Always wear sturdy shoes, wear sun protection and bring plenty of water.
Cave Creek Regional Park
37019 N. Lava Lane, Cave Creek
602-506-2930, www.maricopacountyparks.net
$10/Vehicle
Thursday, Nov. 19
Desert 101 Hike
8–11 a.m.
Learn about the ecosystem of the desert on a guided hike
Saturday, Oct. 3
Scorpion Hike
6–8 p.m.
Spend the evening searching for scorpions out on the trails as the full moon rises above the desert..
Lake Pleasant Regional Park
41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Road, Morristown
602-506-2930, www.maricopacountyparks.net
$10/Vehicle
Friday, Nov. 2
Fitness Hike
9–11:30 a.m.
Take a scenic trek along the Agua Fria River with the park ranger.
Friday, Oct. 16
Guided Bird Walk
8–10 a.m.
Look for desert and migratory birds with the help of the ranger while strolling through the park.
Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area
44000 N. Spur Cross Road, Cave Creek
602-506-2930, www.maricopacountyparks.net
$10/Vehicle park entrance fee
Sunday, Nov. 1
100 Miles in 100 Days Challenge Kickoff Hike
9 a.m.–noon
Join the park ranger for the first official day of the County Parks’ annual hiking challenge.
Saturday, Nov. 7
Fitness Hike
8 a.m.–1 p.m.
Take on a challenging hike amidst the awe–inspiring vistas of Spur Cross and Elephant Mountain.
Tuesday, Nov. 10
Fitness Hike
8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Enjoy a strenuous yet rewarding 6.2-mile hike through Spur Cross Ranch.
Tuesday, Nov. 17
National Take a Hike Day
9–11 a.m.
Celebrate with a scenic 3.7-mile fitness hike.
Friday, Nov. 20
Bird Hike
8–10:30 a.m.
Learn about the resident and migratory birds of the Sonoran Desert on a ranger–led hike.
Friday, Nov. 20
Saguaro and Desert Plant Hike
11 a.m.–2 p.m.
View some huge saguaros up close on a guided hike.
Saturday, Nov. 28
Full Moon Discovery Hike
6–8 p.m.
Explore the park after dark as the full moon rises over the mountains.
