WT-CloudsandCholla

Events

 

Desert 101 Hike

Tuesday, September 15, 2026
07:00 AM - 09:15 AM
McDowell Mountain Regional Park
16300 McDowell Mountain Park Dr.
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

(602) 506-2930 ext 3


Join Ranger Nikki to learn all about our fascinating Sonoran Desert in the summer. Click program title for more details.

Walk among plants that are perfectly adapted to survive in our desert and find out what makes them so resilient. Ranger Nikki leads this casual-paced hike that stops along the way to talk about trees, shrubs, saguaros and other cacti that endure our extreme weather conditions. The route uses the North Trail loop, which is 3 miles on a primarily level crushed gravel surface, with a few areas of shallow sand and small to medium rocks underfoot. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring plenty of water. Restrooms are available 500 feet beyond the parking area. Water is available at a fountain outside the Nature Center. (Nature Center opens at 7am) Please bring $10 cash for the self-pay station or your annual pass to display on your vehicle, as the entry station may not be staffed.

MEETING LOCATION: North Trail trailhead. Please allow 10 minutes to drive from the Entry Station to this meeting location at the north end of the park.

Precise meeting location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6Jn4eFSnkfemBxWKA

No registration required.

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. 

 
 
 

NOTICE: Accessibility & Accommodations
The County is committed to providing equal access to its programs, services, and activities.

To request a reasonable accommodation, auxiliary aid, service, or information in an alternative format, please contact the ADA Compliance Program at maricopacountyparks@maricopa.gov or 602.506.9500.

Requests related to public meetings should be made at least three (3) business days in advance when possible to allow time for coordination. 

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