The US National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for our area. Maricopa County Parks & Recreation takes the safety of our visitors seriously. As such, to align with local weather officials' recommendation of avoiding outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, the decision has been made to cancel this program. This website is the best source of up-to-date information about the status of Ranger programs. We hope you'll check back here and consider attending another of our many upcoming programs!
Discover the magic and majesty of the full moon rising over the desert landscape, following the famous Arizona sunset draping over the mountains. This 2-mile hike with under 200-foot elevation gain is rated easy, following Tortoise and Hilltop trails out and back, and starting at the Trailhead Staging Area. Please wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and $7 cash or annual county pass for the ranger station. Small hand-held flashlights are OK; please refrain from using headlamps. This program is weather-dependent. Please allow 15 minutes upon park arrival to use self pay station and find trailhead, a few miles in.
Please note: Outdoor summer programs may be canceled on short notice due to severe weather, including extreme heat events. The Maricopa County Parks website (www.maricopa.gov/parks) is the most accurate resource for verifying the program’s current status. Please check the program listing online before coming to the park.
MEETING LOCATION: Trailhead staging area by the restrooms
Map of Meeting location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XWzDLPnBLGGQDh9z6
Limit 25 participants. To register, please call the McDowell Nature Center at (602) 506-2930 ext. 3 with your name, phone number and number of people attending. There are 2 full moon hikes – please ensure you register for either Wednesday July 9 or Thursday July 10. If you find you cannot attend a program after you have registered, please call the Nature Center ASAP so we may contact those on the waiting list. Registration for this program will close on 7/7/25.