What we’re about
Would you like to hike but have limited time or are just getting started? Have you started hiking already but would prefer company? Hikes in this group will be approximately 2-hours in length at places across the Phoenix Valley. Start times for hiking will vary due to outside temperature. This group is perfect for the beginner hiker who is looking for a group that is not in a rush when hiking.
Keep in mind that "beginner" does not mean "sedentary". If you never go hiking or seldom exercise, you have some work to do before joining us. Read our "what to expect" page below and get some fitness first. Only then should you try one of our hiking events. Start with hikes labeled " EASY ". Then work your way up.
Below you'll find a list of our group policies and various information pages. Be sure to familiarize yourself with them before joining our group and certainly before attending your first event.
- We have a strict Code of Conduct that we expect all members to adhere to.
- We have information for new hikers on what to expect and how to be prepared for our events.
- We have information about where our regular hikes are located and the rating system I use.
- We hike both weekends and midweek. I know not everyone can join us for midweek hikes, but we like them a lot so understand when we do these that you're welcome to come on our frequent weekend outings.
- If you would like to volunteer to lead an event, here are my expectations for trail leaders and how to get started as an event organizer. If after reading both pages you're still interested, step up and let me know!
- If you'd like information about local hikes, we have compiled some links for parks and preserves in the valley.
- Hiking is an inherently dangerous activity. Whether you RSVP or not, by accompanying us on events you and your guests agree to this waiver and attend at your own risk!
- Be sure to include an actual recognizable photograph of yourself in your profile that clearly shows your face. Invalid profile photos include nature scenes, cartoons, pictures of your children/dog, blurry shots, pictures of your feet, wearing a mask or covering up with hats and sunglasses, showing the back of your head, micro pictures or group photos (i.e. it's not clear which one is you). This policy is primarily for our safety and yours. We meet lots of strangers in remote places, so it helps to know who we're looking for when we gather at a trailhead. Also if you get lost on the trail, we want to show the rescue party who to look for. Finally we're all about being friendly, and it's way more sociable to show yourself so we can greet you properly at our next event. So quit hiding and post a picture in your profile before you join. If you're stuck, here's a link about how to add and manage your meetup photos.
Upcoming events (4)
See all- Fifteenth Annual Thunderbird Park Thanksgiving Day HikeThunderbird Park - Main Parking Lot, Glendale, AZ
This hike is rated INTERMEDIATE.
Join us for some annual Thanksgiving bird at Thunderbird park! We'll climb our way through the Cholla Loop and return along the shorter Coach Whip or Arrowhead Point trail, members can choose whether to take the long or short route back. We'll stop along the way and take a longer break at the top. You're encouraged to bring snacks, sun protection of some sort and must bring at least 2+ liters of water per person and sturdy hiking footwear.
DISTANCE: 4 (or 5) miles roundtrip
ELEVATION GAIN: 500 ft (possibly 2x)
DURATION: 2 (or 3) hours
TRAIL STYLE: Loop
DOGS: Yes, if leashed
FACILITIES: Bathrooms and water fountain
WEBSITE: Trailmap (https://www.glendaleaz.com/live/amenities/parks_facilities_trails/regional_parks/thunderbird_conservation_park)
DIRECTIONS: Take AZ-101 to exit 19. Head north on 59th Ave for 1.5 miles. Turn left into the Thunderbird Park main entrance and meet by ramada #4.