There are a lot of things in the desert people are spooked by. Snakes, spiders, scorpions, coyotes, javelina, mountain lion, the list goes on. Turns out, a lot of them come out after dark, especially in the summer. Want to get your adrenaline junkie going? Come walk the seclude Cottonwood trail at the North Entry of Lake Pleasant! Tag along with Ranger Shaun and see what sorts of animals wonder the Conservation area, far away from the noise of the campgrounds.
There are restrooms available at the trailhead though coming prepared with water is recommended. Flashlights and closed toe shoes required. UV lights encouraged. This is a 2.5-mile hike on an easy rated trail. Hiking poles are welcome but not required.
MEETING LOCATION: Cottonwood Day Use Area
Precise Meeting Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YKrrf1mSm5MQKwVV8
Limit 10 participants. To register, please email Ranger Shaun at Shaun.Barnett@maricopa.gov with your name, phone number and number of people attending. If you find you cannot attend a program after you have registered, please email back ASAP so those on the waiting list may be contacted. Registration for this program will close on June 19, 2026.
PLEASE NOTE: Outdoor summer programs may be canceled on short notice due to severe weather, including extreme heat events. The Maricopa County Parks website (http://www.maricopacountyparks.net) is the most accurate resource for verifying the program’s current status. Please check the program listing online before coming to the park.