Activities planned at McDowell Mountain Park

Maricopa County Parks and Recreation has a couple of events scheduled for McDowell Mountain Regional Park on Saturday, Sept. 7.

Those who enjoy getting out early for a vigorous workout can join Ranger Jacque for a fitness hike that begins at 7:30 a.m. (to 9 a.m.).

This moderate-rated hike on Lousley Hill Trail has an elevation gain of 300 feet and trail surfaces that are uneven and rocky. The total distance of this loop is approximately 1.5 miles. This hike is also an opportunity to be on the lookout for birds, lizards, insects, mammals and more. Wear closed-toe shoes, sun-protective clothing and a hat. Bring snacks and plenty of water. Restrooms and water are available at the Nature Center (opens at 7 a.m.) on the way to the trailhead.

Meeting location is the Lousley Hill Trailhead, S. Lousley Hill Drive in the park. This trailhead is an approximate 10-minute drive from the entry station.

There is a limit of 15 participants. To register call the Nature Center at (602) 506-2930 ext. 3 with name, phone number and number of people attending. Registration for this program will close on Thursday, Sept. 5.

Note that summer programs may be canceled on short notice due to severe weather, including extreme heat.

The Maricopa County Parks website (maricopacountyparks.net/events/) is the best resource for verifying the program’s current status, so check the program listing prior to departing for the scheduled program.

Later in the morning on Saturday, Sept. 7, the park Nature Center will be open for Discovery Station: Stranger Things – Sonoran Desert nature edition from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join Ranger Jacque to uncover nature’s oddities and bizarre relationships between Sonoran Desert’s most bizarre and fascinating characters at this drop-in ranger table.

Discover the relationships and peculiar behaviors that define life in the wild. From unexpected partnerships to strange survival strategies, dive into the incredible and often unseen connections that make the natural world so extraordinary.

No registration required. Just stop by the Visitor Center between 10 a.m.-12 p.m.