Creatures of the Night Walk at Hassayampa River Preserve

After the sun sets, Wickenburg gets wonderfully wild!

Join Ranger Eric for an after-hours adventure along the trails of Hassayampa River Preserve in search of the desert’s fascinating nighttime residents.

Past walks have encountered bats, owls, ringtails, foxes, skunks, javelinas, deer, scorpions, insects, and plenty of other cool creepy-crawlies. Although wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, every walk offers an opportunity to experience the Preserve from an entirely different perspective.

Participants will hike approximately 1–1.5 miles along mostly flat, easy trails. Some surfaces may be uneven or sandy.

What to Bring

Bring a flashlight and blacklight if you have them. A limited number will be available to borrow. Participants should wear sturdy footwear, dress in layers, and carry plenty of water.

Event Details

Date: Friday, September 4, 2026

Time: 7:00–9:00 p.m.

Meeting Location: Visitor Center

Hassayampa River Preserve
49614 U.S. Highway 60-89
Wickenburg, AZ 85390

Registration: Required – limited to 12 participants

Registration Deadline: Wednesday, September 2, 2026

To register, call the Visitor Center at 602-506-2930, extension 9. Be prepared to provide your name, phone number, and the number of people attending.

The gate will open at approximately 6:30 p.m. and will be closed while the walk is underway. This program is open to all ages but may not be suitable for toddlers or young children because of the darkness and walking distance.

Outdoor programs may be canceled on short notice because of extreme heat, thunderstorms, wildfires, or other unsafe conditions. Check the official event listing before leaving for the Preserve.