If you’re planning a hike at White Tank Mountain Regional Park this spring or summer, plan ahead – one of the park’s primary access points is closing for several months. From April 13 through August 31, 2026, the Trailhead Staging Area will be closed to the public while the park Read more…
Starting January 1, 2026, visitors to the Maricopa County regional parks and trails may pay more – sometimes considerably more – to enter, camp, or obtain an annual pass. The proposed fee hike would mark the first increase since 2018. Proposed Fees Changes at a Glance Why the Proposed Increases Read more…
Arizona’s fall colors may arrive later than in other parts of the country, but the state’s autumn display is well worth the wait. As October approaches, Arizona State Parks and Trails reminds us that the landscape will soon transform into vibrant showcases of red, orange, and yellow, drawing visitors eager Read more…
As reported by 12 News, a segment of northbound Interstate 17 will be shut down this weekend for pavement work. If you’re planning to get your trail fix in the higher altitudes of Flagstaff and away from the Phoenix heat, consider modifying your trip to not get stuck in road-closure Read more…
Arizona is known by outdoor enthusiasts for many unique things but few are more majestic than its dark skies and excellent stargazing. Associations and clubs hold stargazing events frequently, and often in partnership with parks many Arizona recreationists already know and love. From star parties in Grand Canyon National Park Read more…
Lake Pleasant’s current high water level results in minimal shoreline available for parking and recreation at the lake over Memorial Day weekend 2024. This is expected to limit the number of visitors who can safely enjoy the park without causing damage to the environment or affecting the visitor experience. Here’s Read more…
Parking lot work 5/20 – 6/1/24 White Tank Mountain Regional Park has begun a parking lot renovation project through the park which is anticipated to limit parking. The park remains open to recreationists during this time but visitors should expect limited parking availability, especially at major trailheads. The renovation project Read more…
Rattlesnakes are defensive around humans Despite what you might hear and read, snakebites are relatively uncommon so long as individuals stay vigilant and avoid situations that could provoke a snake. Rattlesnakes play vital roles in maintaining balanced ecosystems by controlling rodent populations and understanding the behavior of rattlesnakes is essential Read more…
Summertime in Arizona is characterized by extreme heat that can make outdoor recreation experiences less enjoyable or even deadly. But with so many beautiful places to visit around the state, both Arizona locals and visitors will for sure be heading out into the wild to enjoy the unique landscape – Read more…
Ten Maricopa County Parks and recreational areas will move to longer operational hours starting May 1, 2024. Trails will be open to recreationists from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily through October 31. These Valley parks will gain one hour in the morning and one hour in the evening: Hassayampa Read more…