Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: St. Patrick’s Day Yavapai Hike

Maybe not as much fun as a pub crawl, but it’s early yet.

This will be a roughly 3-mile out and back hike on the Pipeline and Yavapai trails. Trails are easy and moderate difficulty with some medium to large rocks and a fairly steep slope in the last half mile or so. Closed toe shoes and water bottles are required. Hiking poles or sticks can prove useful particularly in the steeper section. Dressing in layers may be useful as temperatures can change quickly on the trail especially before sunrise and should it prove windy, which it often does near the lake. Hats or sunglasses may be nice, and sunscreen is always recommended, mostly for the way back. No pets please.

MEETING LOCATION: Cottonwood Day Use Area

Precise Meeting Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dBXaTCEgUacfg34x9

Important note on arrival: Please allow ample time to reach the trailhead, as this program meets on the north side of Lake Pleasant, not at the main park entry. To get there, take Castle Hot Springs Road north until the road ends; turn right to the ranger booth. Be prepared for a $10 per vehicle entry fee (annual pass or same day receipt) and potential wait times at the contact station.

Limit 15 participants. To register, please email shaun.barnett@maricopa.gov with your name, phone number, and number of people attending. Registration will close 3/15/26.