Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: Cactus Hike

Join Ranger Nikki on an easy to moderate early morning hike to enjoy flowering saguaros and other cacti. Ranger Nikki will lead you on a hike to learn about saguaros and enjoy their blooms, which serve as Arizona’s State Flower. We will also talk about prickly pear, barrel, cholla, hedgehog and pincushion cacti. The route follows San Tan, Stargazer and Moonlight Trails and returns via the Service Road for a 3-mile loop. The trail surface ranges from smooth and level to uneven with small to medium rocks underfoot. If you would like to learn how to document your findings via the iNaturalist citizen science project, please download the free app at home and register with a username prior to arrival. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring snacks and plenty of water. Binoculars are helpful. Make sure your phone is fully charged to take photos. Restrooms and water are available at the Nature Center. MEETING LOCATION: Main Trailhead picnic table. Map of meeting location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tciT6NFi5sTbDrot7 No registration required.