Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: Elephant Mountain Fitness Hike – Strenuous

Get your heart pumping as you take in the high peaks that tower above you and explore ruins with Ranger Derik. The hike is strenuous covering 7 miles and gaining over 1000ft of elevation. Hikers are required to have 3 liters of water and sturdy hiking boots or trail runners. Hiking poles are strongly encouraged on this hike as there are many rocky sections and a few steep inclines. Hikers are encouraged to leave some iced water in their cars for the drive home. The park has no water so make sure you bring everything you will need. The trailhead does have portable bathrooms but you might want to pack something for the hike. MEETING LOCATION: Main trailhead at covered tables Precise Meeting Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JxXLaNnUoqzmkgmk8 Limit 15 participants. To register, please call the Cave Creek Nature Center at (602) 506-2930 ext. 8 with your name, phone number and number of people attending. If you find you cannot attend a program after you have registered, please call the Nature Center ASAP so we may contact those on the waiting list. Registration for this program will close on 9/20/25. PLEASE NOTE: Outdoor summer programs may be canceled on short notice due to severe weather, including extreme heat events. The Maricopa County Parks website (www.maricopa.gov/parks) is the most accurate resource for verifying the program’s current status. Please check the program listing online or call the Nature Center before coming to the park.