Join Ranger Eric to look for and learn about scorpions, snakes, tarantulas, spiders, owls, nightjars, mammals, and other nocturnal wildlife while hiking along the Dragonfly Trail at Jewel of the Creek Preserve and Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area. The hike will be about 1 mile roundtrip on moderate grade, with frequently rocky and uneven surfaces. The hike distance and time may be shortened depending on how hot the weather is and based on how participants are feeling. The ranger will have a headlamp and blacklight, but please bring flashlights and blacklights if you have them. Please wear sturdy footwear, bring ample water for yourself, and pre-hydrate with water and electrolytes. *Please note: Entry to Spur Cross Conservation Area is $5 per person. Annual Pass or CASH only (exact change appreciated). Credit/Debit/Mobile not accepted. Self-pay station with envelopes can be found 0.25 mile up the trail/road from the parking lot by the portapotties. Please note that we will be heading back down the road the other direction from the parking lot to go to the Dragonfly Trailhead, so please leave yourself enough time when you arrive to use the pay station or portapotties if needed before the hike starts.
MEETING LOCATION: Spur Cross parking lot
Exact location (Google Maps): https://maps.app.goo.gl/AE3ef6P2Gs2N36B96 Park map: http://https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/assets/1/6/spur-cross-11x17-mi-b_w.pdf
Limit 20 participants. To register, please call the Cave Creek Nature Center at (602) 506-2930 ext. 8 with your name, phone number and number of people attending. 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 9/21.
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.