Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: Creatures of the Night

There are a lot of things in the desert people are spooked by. Snakes, spiders, scorpions, coyotes, javelina, mountain lion, the list goes on. Turns out, a lot of them come out after dark, especially in the summer. Want to get your adrenaline going? Come walk the Metate-Spur Cross loop! Tag along with Ranger Shaun and see what sorts of animals wander the park. There are restrooms available at the trailhead though coming prepared with water is recommended. Flashlights and closed toe shoes are required. UV lights encouraged. This is a 2.5-mile hike on an easy rated trail. Hiking poles are welcome but not required.  

PLEASE NOTE: Outdoor summer programs may be canceled on short notice due to severe weather, including extreme heat events. The Maricopa County Parks website (https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/) is the most accurate resource for verifying the program’s current status. Please check the program listing online before coming to the park.  

MEETING LOCATION: Spur Cross Shaded Picnic tables 

Precise Meeting Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hcFosDUCsSLFPFneA  

Limit 15 participants. To register, please call the 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 8/13/26.   

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. 

Ages 6+