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Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: Ecosystem Hike
September 4, 2025 @ 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Free with Park Fee
Lake Pleasant is a big park. While it may not be Lake Superior, it’s no puddle either. It can be tough to appreciate how big it really is without taking it all in. The best place to do that? Unless you have a hot air balloon, it’s definitely the bench at the end of Yavapai Point Trail! (If you have a hot air ballon, it might still be, I haven’t checked.) Ranger Shaun’s headed up there around lunchtime today so grab a snack, a water bottle, lather on some sunscreen, and let’s go eat lunch at the top of the world! Well, at least the top of the Park!
This is a 3.0-mile ROUND TRIP hike on an easy-medium trail. The first 2/3 of the trail are a relatively easy hike on mostly gentle, smooth inclines. There are elevation changes, but they are generally mild and the path moderately wide. The last 1/3 is medium difficulty. The trail becomes a bit narrower in places and the rocks are larger and rougher. Inclines become steeper. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and prepare for ambient weather conditions (hats, sunscreen, sun sleeves, light colored clothing, etc.) as makes you feels safe and prepared. Hiking poles/walking sticks are not required but are welcome if you find them useful.
MEETING LOCATION: Cottonwood Day Use Area
Precise Meeting Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/mCJnNjv4HBrkxxsW6
Limit 10 participants. To register, please email Ranger Shaun at shaun.barnett@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 9/2/2025.
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 or call the Nature Center before coming to the park.