Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: Elephant Tree Hike

One of the rarest Sonoran desert “trees,” the Elephant tree is actually more like a large shrub at the extreme northern end of its range here at White Tank. We’ll get an up close and personal look at this fascinating member of the frankincense family while also looking at various plants and animals we encounter along the way. The total length of the hike is only about two miles, with most of it along easy-to-moderate segments of the Goat Camp and South trails. All are welcome to join; however, actually reaching the Elephant trees will require us to go off-trail by climbing down a steep slope into a wash and up a steep and rocky hillside. This part should be considered strenuous and somewhat risky. If you’d like to come on the hike, but don’t feel up to the climbing, bring some binoculars and you will be able to see the Bursera from the trail. IMPORTANT: Hiking off-trail is not permitted in any county park unless you are with a Ranger. MEETING LOCATION: South Trailhead Precise Meeting Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bQmv5h99G46uttoDA Limit 12 participants. To register, please call the Nature Center at (602) 506-2930 ext. 5 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 12/9/25.