Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: Homeschool Happenings – Nature Hike

Homeschool families can hike with Ranger Nikki to learn about our fascinating Sonoran Desert.

We will focus on plant identification and learn about some of our common cacti, trees and shrubs. We will also be on the lookout for critters such as birds, bugs and lizards. The hike is 2.2 miles total on San Tan, Stargazer and Moonlight Trails. The terrain ranges from smooth and level to rocky and uneven, with a slight elevation gain going up Stargazer Trail.

To help with you identify what you see in nature, download the free iNaturalist app beforehand when you have a good data connection. Another option is Seek by iNaturalist, which is specifically kid-friendly and does not use location data. This is a fun way to become a citizen scientist, learn about what you see and create a data record that can be used by biologists to track population and habitat trends. Wear closed-toe shoes and sun-protective clothing and bring plenty of water. Restrooms and water are available at the Nature Center.

MEETING LOCATION: Main Trailhead picnic table

Precise meeting location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QD9cFJyeb8QywJ2s5

Limit 35 participants. To register, please call the San Tan Nature Center at (602) 506-2930 ext. 7 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 12/28/25.