Join Ranger Eric to look for and learn about the nocturnal critters of the Sonoran Desert! Hiking will be easy to moderate on occasionally rocky and uneven terrain, and will be about 1-2 miles roundtrip, depending on heat and participant interest. Wildlife may include scorpions, spiders, insects, owls, nightjars, reptiles, and mammals. Please bring your own ample water and electrolytes, flashlight or headlamp, and wear sturdy footwear. A blacklight is recommended, but the ranger will have one to point out scorpion. Restrooms are available at the trailhead.

MEETING LOCATION: Desert Outdoor Center at Lake Pleasant, 41402 N. 87th Avenue Peoria, AZ 85383 (see park map here: https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/assets/1/6/lake-pleasant-8×111.pdf). This facility is usually accessible only by appointment, so access instructions will be given to registered participants. The entrance fee is the same as for Lake Pleasant Regional Park, $7 per vehicle unless you have a Maricopa County Parks annual pass. Only CASH fees will be accepted via self-pay envelopes.

Limit 12 participants. To register, please email Ranger Eric at eric.hough@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 Wednesday, 8/30/23.