Cave Creek Regional Park releases event schedule
Staff Report ~ 12/14/2011

Cave Creek Regional Park recently released its event schedule for January that includes classes, hikes, an exercise series as well as equestrian opportunities.
A complete list can be found at Maricopa.gov/parks/cave_creek.
Those participating in any of the events are reminded to wear closed-toed, sturdy shoes, dress appropriate for weather conditions and bring plenty of water.
Jan. 1 – At 10 a.m. a 1-mile hike will focus on the common plants and animals living in the desert and the adaptations that allow them to thrive. Those interested in participating in the 90-minute walk should meet at the Go John Trailhead.
Jan. 5 – At 9 a.m. a warmup to a fitness series beginning Jan. 12 will leave from the Nature Center. The easy, 1.5 mile hike following portions of the Overton and Slate trails will give group members a chance to know their fellow hikers while receiving tips on general fitness and hiking gear.
Jan. 5 – At 3 p.m. equestrian enthusiast will have a chance to ride with the Ranger, through Cave Creek Trailrides. The 1-hour ride will offer an introducing to the nature and the landscape of Cave Creek Park and the Sonorand Desert.
Registration is required for this fee based program. Call Cave Creek Trailrides at 623-742-6700 for information or to register.
Jan. 6 – At 1 p.m. staff will conduct a feeding of some of the park’s reptiles in the Nature Center. Frozen rodent entrees will be served to the animals. While watching the animals eat staff will discuss the roles these creatures play in the food web.
Jan. 7 - At 3 p.m. a presentation on the venomous creatures found in the Valley will take place in the Nature Center.
Jan. 7 – At 6 p.m. there will be an easy .5 mile Moonlight Hike to Clay Mine. Once inside the cave candles will take participants through the history of the mine as guides share the story of how its contents were used to cure a variety of ailments.
Helmets will be supplied for the hike. In addition to wearing sturdy shoes and bringing water, a flashlight is recommended. The hike will leave from the Group Campground.