Get Outside

A Halloween hike after dark at San Tan Mountain Regional Park. Ranger Shaun leads the way by flashlight and blacklight in search of spiders, scorpions and snakes, and you may see some up close. You will learn where these desert animals live, what they eat and how they survive. The park calls it family friendly, though younger children may be sensitive to the dark. A flashlight, closed-toe shoes and a water bottle are required. Blacklights are encouraged, and the ranger will bring at least one for the group. Registration is required and the limit is 10. Call the San Tan Nature Center at 602-506-2930, ext. 7 by Oct. 20 with your name, phone number and how many are coming. Meet at the trailhead staging area.

Watch the sunset, then the full moon rise, on a slow-paced evening hike with Ranger Nikki. Bats, owls, tarantulas, geckos and centipedes may be stirring, and the park's scorpions will be there too, so bring a UV light to see them glow. The route follows a mostly level service road and returns on an uneven trail with small to medium rocks. Bring a flashlight and plenty of water, and wear closed-toe shoes. No pets. Registration is required and the limit is 20. Call the San Tan Nature Center at 602-506-2930, ext. 7 by Oct. 24 with your name, phone number and how many are coming. Meet at the Main Trailhead picnic table. Park entry is $10 in exact cash for the self-pay station or a displayed annual pass, because the entry station will be closed.

Start the county's 100 Miles in 100 Days challenge on its first official day. Ranger Nikki leads a 5.5 mile hike on the San Tan and Hedgehog Trails at an easy to moderate pace, and you can shorten or extend the route. Learn about the park and plan future outings. Bikers and equestrians can also begin their 200 mile challenge here. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring water, a hat, sunscreen and snacks. No registration required. Meet at the Main Trailhead picnic table.

Come join the Master Gardeners of the San Tan Valley as they present a topic of interest on the 3rd Saturday of each month from 1:30 - 3 PM. Topics are wide-ranging but all related to gardening in our region. These awesome volunteers also enjoy answering your questions about the challenges you are having in the garden.