Learn about desert food, win tickets
The Highline Fire is burning on the Mogollon Rim, Flagstaff was covered in smoke from the Boundary Fire and the Frye Fire is blazing on Mount Graham. Who knows what other wildfires will break out and close high-country hiking trails over the next few weeks?
Of course, we must first be concerned with the safety of firefighters and the communities surrounding the blazes. No matter how badly we Valley dwellers want to escape the heat and hike in the cool pines, we should stay out of the way.
So, what? Give up hiking until the monsoon comes? No way. Instead, stay in town and take part in a hike that celebrates the annual ripening of saguaro fruits.
Ranger Kevin Smith at Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area in Cave Creek has educational hikes planned for July 1, 7 and 8 that focus on the identification of wild foods hiding in plain sight along local trails.
The treks start early and end before the heat of the day kicks in. Smith will lead participants into the hills above Cave Creek and demonstrate traditional techniques for harvesting cactus fruits and other desert delicacies. And, yes, the tour includes tastes.
So, why not learn a little bit about native Sonoran Desert edibles while getting your exercise and waiting for the rain to return. There’s no need to sign up, just show up promptly at 7 a.m.
Plus, this program is part of the “County Parks Are Getting Wet ‘n’ Wild This Summer” promotion. At the end of each hike there will be a drawing for a family four-pack of tickets to the Wet ‘n’ Wild water park in Glendale.
Variable, but usually 2-3
Length:
miles. Easy. 2,200-2,800 feet. From Loop 101 in north Phoenix, exit at Cave Creek Road
Rating: Elevation: Getting there:
and drive 15 miles north to Spur Cross Ranch Road, turn left and continue 4.2 miles to the parking lot on the left.
$3 per person. Bring exact change for the self-serve pay station.
Admission:
www.maricopacountyparks .net/events/fruits-of-the-desert-walk21.
Details: