Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: Medicinal and Edible Plants Hike

Spend the evening hiking through the desert with Ranger Jacque and learn about the many medicinal and edible plants that can be found in your own backyard. Note: While there won’t be fruit to sample during this program, we’ll explore the plants’ uses and seasonal changes. Participants will hike for about 1.5 miles out and back on a slightly hilly section of Pemberton Trail. Ranger Jacque will discuss native edible and medicinal plants that grow along the trail. Though the plants are not likely to be in their edible or fruit-bearing stage at this time of year, you’ll still learn about their seasonal availability and the ways they have been historically used for food and medicine. The trailhead is a couple miles past the ranger station, please plan ahead and allow time to arrive at the trailhead. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes. MEETING LOCATION: Trailhead Staging Area in front of restrooms Map of meeting location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/mb2QBCiyfXdqsymaA Limit 15 participants. To register, please call the Nature Center at (602) 506-2930 ext. 3 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 6/22/25. 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.