This guided walk with Ranger Nikki is designed to help 100 Miles Challenge participants attain their “third park” requirement by traveling on a segment of the Maricopa Trail. This walk is also open to non-participants who want to explore the Maricopa Trail in a non-mountain park setting. This walk can be either a one-way walk for 3.5 miles (You must make travel arrangements ahead of time to be dropped off/picked up or have a vehicle at BOTH the starting and end points) OR an out-and-back walk for 7 miles (Add 90 minutes for the return trip, not Ranger-guided). There is also a shorter option if you want to use Desert Wells Stage Stop as your end or turnaround point (2 miles one-way, 4 miles out-and-back – not Ranger-guided on return portion). We start at Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Center on Riggs Road and follow the connector spur to the Maricopa Trail as it meanders along the paved Sonoqui Wash Trail. Then we travel along the Sossaman Road sidewalk to Mansel Carter Oasis Park (19535 E Appleby Rd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142). We will discuss local history along the way, including the story of local “Mountain Man” Mansel Carter, and make a brief stop at the Desert Wells Stage Stop on Sossaman Rd. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring water, snacks, hat and sunscreen. Restrooms are available at Horseshoe Park. Water is not available so be sure to bring plenty of your own.
MEETING LOCATION: Horseshoe Park and Equestrian Center. (20464 E Riggs Rd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142)
Map of Meeting Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/d8xeVqyUoAsGKpry6
Limit 25 participants. To register, please email Ranger Nikki at nikki.bunnell@maricopa.gov with your name, phone number and number of people attending. If you find you cannot attend a program after you have registered, please email the Ranger ASAP so we may contact those on the waiting list. Registration for this program will close on 1/2/25.