Desert Discovery offers a guided introduction to the Sonoran Desert, led by experienced, knowledgeable volunteers. Designed for curious minds and easy exploration, these short hikes, with frequent stops in our Preserve and FH Desert Botanical Garden, reveal the many facets of this unique desert. Programs also explore the desert through photography and local art, offering a creative lens on this remarkable environment.
Join Vicky Derksen on this moonless evening to observe the night skies. You might see a planet or two and locate and identify constellations and their stars while Vicky recounts some cultural star stories. After the hike, a telescope will be available for participants to bring the cosmos into close view.
Bring pre-registered children age 8+, wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe sturdy shoes. Be prepared to hike 2 miles roundtrip in the dark on the Promenade Trail, a slightly rocky but relatively flat old jeep road after a slight climb at the beginning. Bring water and hiking poles if needed. Red flashlights welcome; white lights and flash photography should stay tucked away to preserve everyone's night vision. No dogs, please.
Vicky Derksen is the host of the Night Sky Tourist podcast and website and owns a local stargazing business. She is also an SCFH Steward Volunteer. You can find her online at
https://nightskytourist.com/