Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: America 250 Mine Tour- Striking it Rich!

Join Ranger Jacque for a roughly 1.8-mile round-trip hike to the Clay Mine, where Leila Irish built a unique business based on a remarkable natural discovery. In the spirit of America 250, this program features a tour of the mine itself and explores a quintessentially American story of innovation and ambition. The trails are rated moderate, so please expect some loose rock, uneven terrain, and 300 feet of elevation change. 

Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and bring plenty of water, sun protection, and $10 exact change for self-pay station, or display your annual pass. Restrooms and water fountains are available at the Nature Center where we will meet. No pets, please.  

MEETING LOCATION: Nature Center 

Limit 12 participants. To register, please call the Cave Creek Nature Center 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 08/05/26. 

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. 

Ages 9+