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"Preserve Connections" Hiking Tours

Free transportation and morning hike in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve!

In partnership with the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy  the City of Scottsdale is offering for the fourth year, Preserve Connections , a seasonal hiking program offered to Scottsdale residents who may not have direct access to visit, experience and learn more preserveimageabout the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.


Certified Conservancy Stewards will lead pre-registered participants on hikes that highlight Sonoran Desert flora and fauna.

As part of registration, participants will be transported by bus to the Preserve.  Bus departure time and location is listed below.


Hiker pickup location:
Granite Reef Senior Center
1700 N. Granite Reef    Map

Times: 

Registration Required
8 a.m. check-in
Noon/1 p.m. return time 
(approx. depending on length of hike) 

 

HIKE DATES & Descriptions  

Date 
 

 Trail Name

Trail Descriptions/Difficulty

Saturday, Jan. 9 Taliesin Overlook via Lost Dog Trail

5 mile recreational hike with gentle inclines and one short, steep grade to a scenic saddle area. Learn about the McDowell Sonoran Preserve as well as hiking techniques, equipment and safety. 3 ½ hours.

Saturday, Jan. 30

Sunrise Peak via 128th St.

5 mile challenging hike, not for beginners. Long moderate inclines and switchbacks, and one short steep climb. Panoramic views from Sunrise Peak. 3 ½ hours.

Sunday, Feb. 14 Gateway Access Area Loop Trails

6 mile loop. Mild inclines only; please note distance. Learn about the new access area trails and enjoy scenic views from the overlook. 4 hours.

Saturday, Mar. 20 Ringtail Loop Wildflower Walk

Good beginner hike! 3 mile loop, mild inclines only. Suitable for all levels. Join experts to identify and learn about Sonoran Desert wildflowers. 2 hours


Please Note:

Trails are rocky and irregular and may not be suitable for some hikers depending on experience and fitness.  Please specify any need for disability related accommodations by calling (480) 312-3111.


Requirements

  • Participants must sign liability waivers. 
  • Hikers must:
    • Wear sturdy, covered shoes/boots and hats (sunglasses suggested).
    • Bring at least 2 quarts of water per hiker, sunscreen and energy snacks.
  • No strollers; children must either walk or be carried.
  • No pets except for certified assistance animals.
  • Registration will be limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.  
  • For more information, call (480) 312-3111.

Hikes are led by experienced McDowell Sonoran Conservancy Stewards who are expert in desert subjects. Frequent stops will be made to admire and discuss surroundings. Questions are encouraged.

The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy (MSC) is a non-profit organization staffed almost McDowellSonoranPreserveLogoentirely by volunteers. It advocates the land-conservation cause, conducts desert-education programs and helps maintain the city-owned McDowell Sonoran Preserve and state-trust-land areas that have been designated for preservation, but not yet acquired. To reach the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, call (480) 998-7971.

TO REGISTER

 

 

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