Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: Welcome to the Desert! Sunset Hike

Embark on a scenic 3.6-mile hike with Ranger Jacque, traversing from Frog Tanks to the Beardsley Trailhead at a leisurely pace. This moderate hike features approximately 300 feet of elevation change and rocky terrain, offering stunning views as the sun begins to set, creating beautiful golden hour light over the desert. Along the way, you’ll uncover some of the Sonoran Desert’s hidden mysteries—from surprising adaptations of desert plants to the behaviors of local wildlife.

For your safety and comfort, please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, bring plenty of water, and sun protection (hat, sunscreen). No pets please. There is a $7 per vehicle entry fee for the park, or you may use an annual pass. Please allow ample time to reach the trailhead and to potentially wait in line at the contact station. Restrooms and water are not available directly at the Beardsley Trailhead meeting point. However, restrooms are located at the 10-lane parking area across from the trailhead. Please plan accordingly.

This program is weather-dependent; please check the Maricopa County Parks website for cancellations before attending, especially due to severe weather or extreme heat events.

MEETING LOCATION: Frog Tanks Trailhead

Precise Map of Meeting Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2X2acXDGPdquFZgg6

Registration required. Limit 25 participants. To register, please call the Discovery Center at Lake Pleasant at (602) 506-2930 ext. 2 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 Discovery Center ASAP so we may contact those on the waiting list. Registration for this program will close on 11/5/25.