Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: Full Moon Hike

Discover the magic and majesty of the full moon rising over the desert landscape, following the famous Arizona sunset draping over the mountains. This 2-mile hike with under 200-foot elevation gain is rated easy, following Tortoise and Hilltop trails out and back, and starting at the Trailhead Staging Area. Please wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and $7 cash or annual county pass for the ranger station. Small hand-held flashlights are OK; please refrain from using headlamps. This program is weather-dependent. Please allow 15 minutes upon park arrival to use self pay station and find trailhead, a few miles in.

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.

MEETING LOCATION: Trailhead staging area by the restrooms

Map of Meeting location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XWzDLPnBLGGQDh9z6

Limit 25 participants. To register, please call the McDowell Nature Center at (602) 506-2930 ext. 3 with your name, phone number and number of people attending. There are 2 full moon hikes – please ensure you register for either Wednesday July 9 or Thursday July 10. 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 7/7/25.