Sunrise in the Sonoran Desert
Let’s rise early to meet the sun and whitness the magic of morning in the Sonoran. Well hike two miles and gain just 70 feet of elevation to watch the sun spread its warmth over the valley, spot animals and insects on the hunt for breakfast, and take in the sounds of nature coming to life. This energizing experience will leave you renewed and ready for a beautiful day.
- Distance: 2.0 miles
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- 200 ft of elevation gain
- Rated: Easy to Moderate
- Location: South Mountain, Phoenix
Conquer the Trail to Hidden Valley
The adventure starts with a climb but offers stunning views right away. On a clear day you can spot local landmarks like Four Peaks, Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak, Downtown Phoenix, and University of Phoenix Stadium.
We’ll climb to Fat Man’s Pass, a narrow pass between two giant boulders, and into Hidden Valley. Then we’ll rock scramble a bit before we hike to a rock tunnel with ancient glyphs. We’ll keep our eyes peeled for wildlife like coyotes, jack rabbits, and lizards. We’ll enjoy more views of the valley as we work our way down the mountain.
If you’re looking to take advantage of the gorgeous weather, explore the history of the Hohokom people, see the stunning natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert, and enjoy some good exercise; join me for Conquer the Trail to HiddenValley.
- Distance: 3.8 miles
- Duration: 3 hours
- 958 ft of elevation gain
- Rated: Moderate
- Location: South Mountain, Phoenix
Sonoran Desert Adventure for Kids
Let’s explore, exercise, play, and discover the Sonoran Desert. We’ll find our way through a maze of desert trails. Along the way we’ll climb rocks made from magma and challenge ourselves to reach the summit, our highest point. We’ll also learn about the plant life, insects, and animals unique to the Sonoran Desert.
- Distance: 2.2 miles
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- 70 ft of elevation gain
- Rated: Easy to moderate
- Location: South Mountan Phoenix
Seeking the Summit at Piestewa
One of Phoenix’s most popular trails, this hike is an true physical challenge. We’ll gain elevation quickly as we climb the concrete “stairs” of Piestwea Peak’s Summit Trail. Along the way we’ll rest for a few moments to take in stunning views of Camelback Mountain, The McDowell Mountain Range, The Superstition Wilderness, and the City of Phoenix skyline.
As the trail winds around the mountain we’ll see glimpses of the summit which will keep us going toward the top.
The gorgeous panoramic views from the summit are your sweet reward for your hard work. If you are looking for a triumphant experience and don’t mind heights or sharing the trail with lots of locals, this hike’s for you.
- Distance: 2.4 miles
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- 1,190 ft of elevation gain
- Rated: Challenging
- Location: Piestewa Peak, Phoenix
The Art of Seeing
Ditch the digital noise and escape to the natural world to practice the art of seeing. We’ll learn about the vegetation, geology, insects, and animals that surround us. We’ll pause at 3 serene locations to take Naturalist-style field notes and observe, question, and reflect on the interconnections of the uniquely beautiful Sonoran Desert.
- Distance: 2.0 miles
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- 200 ft of elevation gain
- Rated: Easy to Moderate
- Location: South Mountain, Phoenix
Science & Sunshine
Author and naturalist John Muir said “When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe.” In this way, experiencing the interconnectedness of nature makes a child’s curiosity go viral.
In this outdoor learning experience we’ll use a compass, trail maps, binoculars, and a magnifying glass to let loose our natural desire to know. We’ll pasuse on the rocks to spend time drawing and reflecting on what we’ve see.
If the students in your life are ready to ditch the digital noise, join me for Science & Sunshine.
- Distance: 2.2 miles
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- 70 ft of elevation gain
- Rated: Easy
- Location: South Mountain, Phoenix