| when | November 10, 2026 Tuesday |
| where | Desert Botanical Garden front gate |
| the hike |
Think the desert is all dirt and tumbleweeds? Think again. Desert Botanical Garden is home to thousands of species of cactus, trees and flowers
from all around the world spread across 140 acres in Phoenix, Arizona.
Founded by the Arizona Cactus and Native Flora Society in 1937 and established at this site in 1939, the garden now has more than 50,000 plants in more than 4,000 taxa, one-third of which are native to the area, including 379 species which are rare, threatened or endangered. Of special note are the rich collections of agave (4,026 plants in 248 taxa) and cacti (13,973 plants in 1,320 taxa), especially the Opuntia sub-family. Plants from less extreme climate conditions are protected under shadehouses. It focuses on plants adapted to desert conditions, including an Australian collection, a Baja California collection and a South American collection. Several ecosystems are represented: a mesquite bosque, semi-desert grassland, and upland chaparral. To beat the crowds and enjoy the beautiful desert scenery, we will meet at the main entrance at 7:30 AM. Since it is Community Day, admission is offered through the garden’s Community Day program. Please plan to pay as you go for any applicable admission fees, food, drinks, or other personal expenses. |
| distance | 2 - 3 miles |
| time | 2 hours |
| EC | low elevation change |
| elevations | 1200' |
| type | nature walk |
| rating | "D" Rate yourself as a hiker. |
| dogs allowed | no |
| cost | Pay as you go for any extras. The club also allows voluntary contributions of $5 per non-member. |
| weather | Phoenix |
| leader | You must email the leader to confirm with your name and phone number. |
| meet | 10:00 AM Desert Botanical Garden front gate. Restrooms will be available. Free parking. |
| drive |
Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix. Next to the Phoenix zoo. Papago Park, at 1201 N. Galvin Parkway in Phoenix, |
| Schedule of Events | Arizona Trailblazers Home Page |
| updated November 1, 2026 | © Copyright 2026, Arizona Trailblazers. All rights reserved. |