Talking about adventures all day has got Ranger Shaun in the mood to go on one! Tagalong, won’t you? We’ll head up Pipeline Trail (south) towards pipeline cove and look for the iconic glow of scorpions under a UV light. If we’re lucky we’ll be able to find all 3 of Arizona’s Big 3!
Restrooms will be available at the trailhead but it’s best to bring drinking water with you. Flashlights, water bottles, and closed toed shoes are required. Blacklights (UV lights), NV scopes, walking sticks or hiking poles, are encouraged but not required. The trail is easy rated though will be slightly harder in the dark.
We may (hopefully) encounter wildlife in the dark including but not limited to insects and arachnids (almost certainly) such as mosquitos, moths, flies, spiders, and scorpions. Larger wildlife such as reptiles (lizards, snakes), amphibians, (frogs/toads), and even birds and mammals could occur but are more rare. Please respect their space and they will respect yours. If you are uncomfortable with bugs, please wear long sleeves and pants but please avoid insect repellents as they can negatively influence the experience of other participants. Please DO NOT bring PETS, INSECT REPELLENTS, INDIVIDUALS YOU KNOW TO HAVE A STRONG FEAR OF: THE DARK, SCORPIONS, BUGS, ETC. It’s awkward for everyone.
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: Pipeline (South) Trailhead
Precise Meeting Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/415P32Md6NLTEsMZ9
Limit 15 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 7/31/25.