Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: City Nature Challenge Hike

The City Nature Challenge is a global competition between cities to document biodiversity in regions around the world, taking place this year April 24-27. This “contest” showcases citizen science, where ordinary people can make extraordinary contributions to global research. This year, we are excited to have our citizen science programs be part of Citizen Science Month 2026, which is an official partner of America 250, the campaign to celebrate the United States of America’s semiquincentennial anniversary. You can double your impact on the initiative of reaching 2.50 Million Acts of Science by reporting your iNaturalist observations to SciStarter, an organization that connects people to citizen science projects, citizen scientists and resources. Create an account on SciStarter.org, an ASU research affiliate, and add your iNat username to settings (under “Affiliation Integration”). Do this once, and all your observations count!

Ranger Nikki will lead a hike with stops along the way to take phone photos of flowers, trees, cacti, birds, bugs, fungi and more to boost the number of observations for Team Phoenix. The route is a 2-mile loop using Spur Cross and Metate Trails on terrain that varies from flat and even to rocky and uneven. You can prepare for this hike by downloading the free iNaturalist app at home on wi-fi and registering your account before you come to the park. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring snacks and plenty of water. Be sure to bring your phone fully charged to take photos. You can upload photos to the app later at home.

For more information 

City Nature Challenge: https://www.citynaturechallenge.org/

Join the Greater Phoenix Area team: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/city-nature-challenge-2026-greater-phoenix-area

iNaturalist: https://www.inaturalist.org/

MEETING LOCATION: Main Trailhead at covered picnic tables and restrooms

Precise meeting location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6Rhc5o86VozSUi2R6

*Please note: Entry to Spur Cross Conservation Area is $5 per person. Annual Pass or CASH only (exact change appreciated). Credit/Debit/Mobile not accepted.

No registration required.