Get Outside

Join Ranger Olivia for a hike to see and learn about the stunning saguaros during sunset. Registration is required. Park entry is $10 in exact cash, or bring an Annual Pass.

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.

Thanksgiving is tomorrow. The turkey is ready. Are you? Get hungry on this evening hike. Registration is required and space is limited to 20 participants. Park entry is $10 in exact cash, or bring an Annual Pass.

Ranger Nikki leads a fitness hike on a 9.2-mile loop of the San Tan, Malpais and Hedgehog trails. You will pass sandy washes and desert views, and the group stops now and then to talk about the plants and animals. The ground is mostly level but rocky in places, and about 2 miles of Malpais Trail is deep sand, so expect a real workout. Bring closed-toe shoes, snacks and about 3 liters of water. Hiking poles help in the sand. Registration is required and space is limited to 20 hikers. Registration closes Dec. 3. Call the San Tan Nature Center at (602) 506-2930, ext. 7. Park entry is $10 in exact cash, or bring an Annual Pass.

Ranger Jacque leads a heart-pumping 6.09-mile fitness hike on the Goldmine, Dynamite and San Tan trails. The route climbs about 1,058 feet, with steep inclines, loose rock and uneven ground, so the park says it is for experienced hikers. Bring sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots, at least 3 liters of water, electrolyte replacements and snacks. Trekking poles help on the steep, rocky parts. Registration is required and space is limited to 20 hikers. Registration closes Dec. 15. Call the San Tan Nature Center at (602) 506-2930, ext. 7. Park entry is $10 in exact cash, or bring an Annual Pass.

Ranger Nikki leads a slow-paced sunset hike along Moonlight Trail, then back on the park's service road. Watch the sky change colors as the Full Super Moon rises over the mountains. The park says the moon looks about 16% brighter than an average full moon. The ground goes from flat to uneven, with small and medium rocks. Bring a flashlight, a charged phone for photos, closed-toe shoes and plenty of water. Pets are not allowed. Registration is required and space is limited to 25 hikers. Registration closes Dec. 21. Call the San Tan Nature Center at (602) 506-2930, ext. 7. Park entry is $10 in exact cash, or bring an Annual Pass.