(Maricopa County) – After a long, hot summer, the time of year when we jump off our indoor treadmills and ditch the elliptical machines has FINALLY arrived!
“This time of year I look forward to getting outside and taking advantage of Arizona’s beautiful weather. I grew up in Maricopa County and have fond memories of White Tank Mountain Regional Park so I plan on bringing my sons out for a morning of fresh air, fitness and fun at the park,” said Maricopa County Board of Supervisors Clint Hickman, District 4.
Earlier this month, Maricopa County’s Parks and Recreation Department kicked off their annual 100-Miles in 100 Days Challenge. “The challenge encourages hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians to get outdoors and not only enjoy the great weather but also participate in outdoor recreational activities. The County has a beautiful park system and the challenge aids in moving participants to parks within the system that they may not have otherwise explored on their own,” said R.J. Cardin, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department Director.
“It’s not too late to participate in the challenge; my sons and I plan on joining the fun by hiking the Waterfall Trail at 10 a.m. on November 17th. This day also happens to be National Take A Hike Day and the park will be waiving the day-use park entry fee. I’d love it if the park’s surrounding neighborhoods and members from Luke Air Force Base would join me on my trek,” Hickman added.
“That’s correct, we will be waiving the day-use park entry fee at all County parks on November 17th in hopes of enticing more people to get outdoors and explore their surroundings. We spend enough time indoors during the summer, it’s time to reconnect with nature,” Cardin said.
The hike with Supervisors Hickman begins at 10 a.m. Interested parties should meet at the Waterfall Trailhead for the guided hike. Please dress in hiking attire and bring water. Brochures for the 100-Miles in 100 Days Challenge will be available at trailhead on the day of the event.
Maricopa County is home to one of the largest regional parks systems in the nation with over 120,000 acres of open space parks that include hundreds of miles of trails. For more information on additional Take A Hike Day events, trail maps and park locations, visit www.maricopa.gov parks or call (602) 506-2930.
