Mary McMullen, Town Trails and Outdoor Recreation Coordinator has scheduled three recreational opportunities that she says she will definitely accomplish.
The event, which would attract a lot of families and outdoor enthusiasts, includes and three-mile hike, urban biking and wildlife viewing.
Hiking Event
The hiking event will begin at 8:30 a.m. on January 24 at the Boulders Trailhead located 3.7 miles east of Highway 260 on Granite Dells Road.
The hike, which will be led by McMullen herself, is rated as moderate but there will be some slopes, loose granite and water that must be traversed.
You will enjoy the fantastic views along the trail, which are of Granite Dells and riparian areas.
It is advised that you bring you use good quality hiking boots, drinking water and walking sticks.
It will be a free hiking event and anyone can join but be sure to sign-up. It is recommended that you pre-register at the P&R offices even though sign-up can be completed prior to the event.
Urban Biking
Aspiring mountain bikers and those wanting to learn about the sport will appreciate the urban biking event. There will be a $15 charge for the event which includes a two-hour clinic and ride.
Participants are expected to bring along their own mountain bikes, helmet, tire repair kit and pump.
The event will begin at 10 a.m., January 31st at Ramada No.1 in Rumsey Park.
The longtime local mountain hiking guru himself, Dan Basinski will conduct the event which will cover bike setup, maintenance and repair, and practice in mountain biking techniques.
The wrap-up will be a trail ride near Payson, which promises to be a fun and exciting event.
Wildlife Watching
The final event is a wildlife-watching seminar which be held from 6 to 7 p.m., February 18 at the Green Valley Park P&R office.
The main purpose of this event is to learn to view wildlife responsibly with minimum impact on the animals and habitat.“It will include a slide show and hints on where to go to get good views of wildlife,” McMullen said.
Arizona Game and Fish Urban and Watchable Wildlife Program Manager Joe Yarchin will host the clinic.
For more information about any of the three events, call McMullen at (928) 474-5242, ext. 7.