Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: Creatures of the Night

Ranger Shaun is back to continue his wildlife watching adventures. Is the park more exciting in the dark? This hike will be on the easy to medium Metate, Towhee, and Spur Cross trails made somewhat more difficult by the dark. While the temperatures may be slightly lower chances of encountering wildlife will be higher. Water bottles and flashlights are required. There are Port-a-potties available at the trailhead, but no running water is available in the park. No pets. Please be aware that the dark and the desert can be intimidating for anyone, especially children. We could encounter any number of different types of wildlife at Spur Cross in the dark including mammals (javelina, mice, rats, and deer are the most common), birds (owls, nighthawks), insects (ants, beetles, etc), arachnids (scorpions, spiders), and reptiles (including snakes). If you respect their space, they’ll respect yours. Know yourself, know your limits, have fun. MEETING 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 or call the Nature Center before coming to the park. LOCATION: Spur Cross Parking Lot Precise Meeting Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/fAMCqQZZpfeNWBCg9 Limit 10 participants. To register, please call the Nature Center (or Discovery Center at LP or Visitor Center at HRP) 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 8/27/25.