PHX Newsroom Feature Enhancements

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2857

Parks and Recreation

9/8/2023 5:00:00 PM

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Dreamy Draw Recreation Area Now Open

<div class="ExternalClass6DBFC5EE3DDB4DA1B31A0D0907630E15"><html> Dreamy Draw Recreation Area is open to the public with new-look ramadas and an improved resident experience! The Dreamy Draw Recreation Area is a hub for hikers, bikers, families and more. Phoenix Parks and Recreation has finished improvements to the park, that coincided with the City's Drought Pipeline Project. Improvements to the site include expanded parking area, including six ADA accessible parking spaces, three small family-friendly ramadas, and a new, six stall gender-neutral restroom. Four designated pull-through equestrian trailer parking spaces are being added for easy access, and a bike lane redesign which includes an adjacent natural surface walking path. There will be ADA accessible routes from the parking lot to the ramadas, restroom and to the Dreamy Draw Bike Path. “We are dedicated to providing our community with access to quality recreational opportunities," District 3 Councilwoman Debra Stark said. “The Dreamy Draw Recreation Area has been a cherished part of our community for many years, and we look forward to seeing it reach its full potential with these exciting improvements." Parks and Recreation Director Aguilar shared her enthusiasm for the project: “The Dreamy Draw Recreation Area is an important part of our local landscape, offering residents a place to get outdoors and enjoy nature. We are thrilled to be able to offer more amenities for visitors in this beloved recreation area." Dreamy Draw Recreation Area is located at 2421 E Northern Avenue and is open from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. (extended hours apply during summer months). Renovations to Dreamy Draw happened alongside the City's Drought Pipeline Project, which updated and replaced existing infrastructure and install new infrastructure needed to serve all customers, no matter where they live or work in the city's service territory. Learn more about the Drought Pipeline project online at <a href="/waterservices/dpp/purpose" target="_blank">phoenix.gov/waterservices/dpp/purpose</a>. </html></div>

https://www.phoenix.gov/parks

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parks-and-recreation

Parks & Rec

Phoenix Trail Closure Program Expanded by Parks Board

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2852

Parks and Recreation

9/1/2023 1:00:00 AM

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Phoenix Trail Closure Program Expanded by Parks Board

<div class="ExternalClass2F364BF028364580AE8DF308641A0DDC"><html> The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Board voted Thursday evening to expand the City’s heat safety trail program that closes popular trails during the hottest days of the year. The program will now be in effect all year long (previously May through October). Access will be restricted to Echo Canyon and Cholla Trails at Camelback Mountain and all trails associated with Piestewa Peak from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on days when the National Weather Service issues an Excessive Heat Warning. The approved changes are effective immediately. During times when trail access will be restricted, parking lot gates will be closed, and signage will be posted. Phoenix Park Rangers will be visible at those locations to remind and educate trail users about the restrictions. Closure information also will be communicated through the <a href="/parks" target="_blank">Parks and Recreation Department’s website</a> and social media accounts, and to local resorts and hotels. "Ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of our hikers and first responders while accessing our trails is our top priority," said Kelly Dalton, Chair of the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Board. "The action we took tonight is another important step in protecting individuals from the devasting effects that can result from hiking in extreme heat." “The central focus of Phoenix Fire is the safety and wellbeing of the customers we service,” Captain Rob McDade added. “It has become clear some hikers need rescuing even when they start their hike before 11 a.m. As a result, we believe the extended closure of trails will better protect everyone involved.” During the Valley's warm weather months, and regardless of an Excessive Heat Watch being in effect, it is recommended that trail users hike during the early morning or evening hours when it is cooler and there is more shade. Residents can <a href="/parks/trails/take-a-hike-do-it-right" target="_blank">sign up to receive email alerts</a> when trails are closed due to excessive heat. The Phoenix Parks and Recreation, and Fire departments have worked in partnership since 2015 to share the “Take a Hike. Do it Right." hiking safety message and continue to lead with education about responsible hiking. All trail users should follow these important and potentially life-saving hiking guidelines: <div><ul><li>Watch the Weather: Yes, "it's a dry heat" – but Arizona's temperature can be deceiving and deadly. Hike when it's cool outside, try early mornings and evenings when there's more shade.</li><li>Dress Appropriately: Wear proper shoes, clothing, hat and sunscreen.</li><li>Bring Water: Hydrate before you go. Have plenty of water, more than you think you need. Turn around and head back to the trailhead before you drink half of your water.</li><li>Keep in Contact: Carry a mobile phone.</li><li>Team Up: Hike with others. If hiking solo, tell someone your start and end times, and location.</li><li>Be Honest: Do you have a medical condition? Asthma, heart problems, diabetes, knee or back problems? Don't push yourself! (Even trained athletes have been caught off guard by getting dehydrated on Arizona trails.)</li><li>Don't Trailblaze: Enjoy the Sonoran Desert's beautiful and undeveloped landscape, but please stay on designated trails.</li><li>Take Responsibility: Don't be "that person" – the one who wasn't prepared, shouldn't have been there for health reasons or ignored safety guidelines. Be the responsible hiker, who takes a hike and does it right! </li></ul></div>For the safety of pets, dogs are prohibited on any City of Phoenix trail when the temperature is 100 degrees or warmer. The Arizona Humane Society advises that temperatures in the 90s are also unsafe for pets to be outdoors. <a href="https://www.azhumane.org/pet-safety-tips/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw9MCnBhCYARIsAB1WQVWIzI3UuS_DWyHekHfNx318dJdpC-saMWQL9EVjDHl6poz8kyNjtVUaAjBjEALw_wcB" target="_blank">Learn how to keep pets safe during Arizona's warm weather months. </a> </html></div>

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Parks & Rec

Neighborhood Groups, Nonprofits Can Now Apply for Funds to Activate a Local Park

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2838

Parks and Recreation

8/21/2023 4:00:00 PM

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Neighborhood Groups, Nonprofits Can Now Apply for Funds to Activate a Local Park

<div class="ExternalClass1A8EDFE7F9D142D18F7A11FEFF42A232"><html> Are you interested in hosting a concert, food truck festival or community celebration in your local park? Phoenix Parks and Recreation is inviting neighborhood groups and nonprofits to apply for grant funds to activate their local park! <a target="_blank" href="file:///C:/Users/086067/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/0YYXBBB7/Phoenix.gov/parks/arpa">Registration opens August 21, 2023</a>, for park activation grant funds through the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department. Eligible neighborhood groups and nonprofits can be awarded up to $10,000 to host events or activities such as movies in the park, youth sports, fitness programs, concerts and more! “We are excited to offer this opportunity in our city," said Cynthia Aguilar, Director of Phoenix Parks and Recreation. “Our goal is to build stronger communities by working together to activate our parks in positive ways." Registration closes on September 29, 2023. Register online at Phoenix.gov/parks/arpa Where did this money come from? In March 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 was signed into law providing the City of Phoenix with nearly $396 million. The first allocation of $198 million was received in May 2021 of which $28,800,000 was dedicated to youth and education programs. In April 2023, the Phoenix City Council approved the use of an additional $500,000 to fund the department's first Park Activation Grant Program. What is Park Activation? Park activation is the process of building community trust and engagement with parks and open spaces. Phoenix Parks and Recreation seeks to activate parks through programming in a variety of ways to promote recreational opportunities, the enjoyment of City parks and facilities, and ensure parks provide a welcoming and safe place for everyone. Who can apply? Neighborhood organizations <a target="_blank" href="/nsd/programs/neighborhood-coordination">listed</a> with the City of Phoenix or Non-Profits seeking to coordinate and hold park activation events and programs in <a target="_blank" href="/parkssite/Documents/PKS_ARPA/PKS_ARPA_Eligible_Parks.pdf">parks serving qualified census tracts </a> are eligible to apply. What events or activities are eligible for application? <ul> <li>Movies in the Park </li> <li>Concerts in the Park</li> <li>Food Truck Festivals</li> <li>Youth Sports Programming</li> <li>Neighborhood Farmers Markets (Must be free admission and have free activities associated with the event)</li> <li>Neighborhood Resource Fairs</li> <li>Safety Events (ex. Bike Rodeos)</li> <li>Fitness Programs</li> <li>2024 GAIN Events </li> <li>Neighborhood Celebrations (May include inflatable jumpers and free activities)</li> </ul> Events and activities must be free of cost/admission for the community and park rules must be followed. All events/programs listed here will be considered priority in the application process. If your event/program category is not listed, please email <a target="_blank" href="mailto:tannia.ruiz@phoenix.gov">tannia.ruiz@phoenix.gov</a> for further consideration. </html></div>

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Parks & Rec

City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department Looking for Camp Colley Operator

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2818

Parks and Recreation

7/27/2023 7:00:00 PM

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City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department Looking for Camp Colley Operator

<div class="ExternalClass66F1A4F64A284716A7ED293F29C943F9"><html> The City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is seeking an operator for a remote youth camp “Camp Colley" located 145 miles north of Phoenix near Happy Jack, Ariz. Named after former Phoenix Parks and Recreation Director James A. Colley, the camp's mission is to provide structured, supervised outdoor nature education and experiences to underserved urban youth. Camp Colley not only has a meaningful core mission but is also a perfect getaway summer camp with the space and amenities for many different types of camping experiences. The campgrounds include a dining hall, bath house, barn, equestrian area, remote camp site, solar panels and much more! The department will be inviting interested qualified proposers to submit a response to the Camp Colley Program Operations Request for Proposals (RFP). The contract will be for a two (2) year period with three (3) one-year options to extend the contract, in accordance with the specifications and provisions contained within the RFP. The selected proposer will also have an opportunity to enhance revenue by offering outdoor opportunities and events at the facility outside of planned youth summer camp activities. These activities can include, but are not limited to: • Group Events (Corporate Retreats, Meetings, Team building, Family Reunions) • Emergency Preparedness and Survival Training • “Leave No Trace" Workshops • Equestrian Activities • Birding/Wildlife Viewing Events • Landscape Painting/Photography Camps • Mental and Physical Health and Wellness Interested parties may download RFP material(s) beginning August 1, 2023, by visiting the “Doing Business with the City of Phoenix" webpage at Phoenix.gov/Solicitations. NOTE: This is not an offer for employment. </html></div>

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parks-and-recreation

Parks & Rec

Take Advantage of Extended Summer Hours at City Trailheads

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2769

Parks and Recreation

6/1/2023 11:00:00 PM

https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2769/Pima-Canyon-Trailhead-at-South-Mountain.jpg

Take Advantage of Extended Summer Hours at City Trailheads

<div class="ExternalClassA1FB694761934389807B4396F29EBB6F"><html> During the Valley's warm weather months, the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department recommends hiking during the early morning or evening hours when it is cooler and there is more shade. To help with that recommendation, extended summer hours are in effect annually from June through September at three of the City's popular hiking destinations – <a style="box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(154, 0, 73);background:transparent;font-family:hind, sans-serif;transition:all 0.2s ease-in-out 0s;font-weight:700;" href="/parks/trails/locations/north-mountain" target="_blank">North Mountain Park</a> and <a style="box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(154, 0, 73);background:transparent;font-family:hind, sans-serif;transition:all 0.2s ease-in-out 0s;font-weight:700;" href="/parks/trails/locations/piestewa-peak" target="_blank">Piestewa Peak Trailhead</a> in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, and <a style="box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(154, 0, 73);background:transparent;font-family:hind, sans-serif;transition:all 0.2s ease-in-out 0s;font-weight:700;" href="/parks/trails/locations/south-mountain" target="_blank">Pima Canyon Trailhead</a> in South Mountain Park/Preserve. To provide an extra two hours of availability and promote hiking after 7 p.m., parking lot entrances are open until 9 p.m. at those locations. Year-round at those three trailheads, parking lots open at 5 a.m. and trails are open until 11 p.m. The Phoenix Parks and Recreation and Phoenix Fire departments remind trail users to <a style="box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(154, 0, 73);background:transparent;font-family:hind, sans-serif;transition:all 0.2s ease-in-out 0s;font-weight:700;" href="/parks/trails/" target="_blank">"Take a Hike. Do it Right."</a> when enjoying the city's desert parks and mountain preserves. All trail users should follow these important and potentially life-saving hiking safety guidelines: <ul style="box-sizing:border-box;font-family:hind, "open sans", sans-serif;font-size:16px;" dir="" class=""> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> Watch the Weather: Yes, "it's a dry heat" - but Arizona's temperature can be deceiving and deadly. Hike when it's cool outside, try early mornings and evenings when there's more shade. </li> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> Dress Appropriately: Wear proper shoes, clothing, hat and sunscreen. </li> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> Bring Water: Hydrate before you go. Have plenty of water, more than you think you need. Turn around and head back to the trailhead before you drink half of your water. </li> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> Keep in Contact: Carry a mobile phone. </li> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> Team Up: Hike with others. If hiking solo, tell someone your start and end times, and location. </li> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> Be Honest: Do you have a medical condition? Asthma, heart problems, diabetes, knee or back problems? Don't push yourself! (Even trained athletes have been caught off guard by getting dehydrated on Arizona trails.) </li> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> Don't Trailblaze: Enjoy the Sonoran Desert's beautiful and undeveloped landscape, but please stay on designated trails. </li> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> Take Responsibility: Don't be "that person" - the one who wasn't prepared, shouldn't have been there for health reasons or ignored safety guidelines. Be the responsible hiker, who takes a hike and does it right! </li> </ul> For the safety of pets, dogs are prohibited on any City of Phoenix trail when the temperature is 100 degrees or warmer. The Arizona Humane Society advises that temperatures in the 90s are also unsafe for pets to be outdoors. Visitors to Phoenix's desert parks and mountain preserves should also be aware that the <a style="box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(154, 0, 73);background:transparent;font-family:hind, sans-serif;transition:all 0.2s ease-in-out 0s;font-weight:700;" href="/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2728" target="_blank">annual ban of open fires went into effect on May 1</a>. </html></div>

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parks-and-recreation

Parks & Rec

Fabulous Phoenix 4th Fireworks Show Returns in 2023

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2767

Parks and Recreation

6/1/2023 4:00:00 PM

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Fabulous Phoenix 4th Fireworks Show Returns in 2023

<div class="ExternalClassEDB44E35CD524751B0A2032F183DF93E"><html> The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is proud to announce the return of its annual fireworks event, Fabulous Phoenix 4th. The event will take place in 2023 and will be a celebration of the city's vibrant culture and community. Fabulous Phoenix 4th takes place at Steele Indian School Park (300 E. Indian School Road) on Tuesday, July 4, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. The 35th Annual Fabulous Phoenix 4th features one of the largest fireworks displays in the Southwest with more than 7,800 aerial effects. This free, non-alcoholic family event attracts thousands of attendees. "I am thrilled to welcome the return of Fabulous Phoenix 4th fireworks show to our City," District 4 Councilwoman Laura Pastor said. “This event has long been a source of joy and celebration for our community, and I am proud to be part of its revival." "We are delighted to bring back this beloved event," said Cynthia Aguilar, Director of the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department. "Fabulous Phoenix 4th will be a night of fun, laughter, and excitement for everyone to enjoy." The event will include a spectacular fireworks display with plenty of food, music, and games for all ages. To ensure everyone's safety during the event, we encourage all attendees to follow these simple fireworks safety tips: <ul> <li>Always have an adult present when lighting fireworks. </li> <li>Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass or shrubs. </li> <li>Keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency. </li> <li>Never point or throw fireworks at another person. </li> <li>Only light one firework at a time and never try to relight a dud. </li> </ul> We look forward to seeing you all at Fabulous Phoenix 4th! Know Before You Go Is there an admission fee? Admission is FREE! Vendors will be selling a variety of items, including food and beverage, arts and crafts, and promotional items. ATMs will NOT be available for this year's event, please plan accordingly. How do I get to the event? The Fabulous Phoenix 4th is held at Steele Indian School Park, located at 3rd St. and Indian School Rd. There is no vehicle entrance and no public parking at the event. The rideshare/taxi area is located on 2nd St. just south of Indian School Rd. There are three pedestrian entrances: Central Ave. and Glenrosa Ave., 3rd St. and Indian School Rd., and 7th St. just north of Turney Ave. Learn more about road closures for the event on the <a href="http://www.phoenix.gov/parks/special-events/fabphx4/know-before-you-go" target="_blank">Know Before You Go</a> site. What should I definitely bring? Lots of cold water! Though water will be available for purchase at the event, having an ample supply of water will help ensure that you stay hydrated. Also, it's suggested that you bring shade. Personal shade devices are allowed and encouraged, however, at sunset all standing shade devices must be lowered and safely put away. What items can I NOT bring? Items you cannot bring include drones, alcohol, fold-out tables, personal fireworks, barbecue grills, glass bottles, pets (service animals are permitted), laser pointers, skateboards, inline skates and kites. Fishing is prohibited during the event. For more tips and information, visit our <a href="/parks/special-events/fabphx4" target="_blank">Fabulous Phoenix 4th website</a>. For recorded event information call 602 534 FEST (3378). Other Fireworks Events After Dark in the Park and Light Up The Sky are also returning in 2023. After Dark in the Park takes place on Saturday, June 24, 2023, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m, at Deer Valley Park, 19602 N. 19th Ave. Fireworks being at 8:45 p.m. Light Up the Sky occurs on Saturday, July 1, 2023, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at American Family Fields of Phoenix, 3600 N. 51st Ave. </html></div>

https://www.phoenix.gov/parks

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Parks & Rec

Fire Ban in Desert Parks and Preserves Starts May 1

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2728

Parks and Recreation

4/17/2023 4:00:00 PM

https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2728/Phoenix-Mountain-Preserve.jpg

Fire Ban in Desert Parks and Preserves Starts May 1

<div class="ExternalClass6910694CC97D4DC092073EAF40A6C8DB"><html> The <a href="/parks/" target="_blank">Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department</a> will put into effect its annual ban of open fires in the city's desert parks and mountain preserves starting Monday, May 1. The Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department's <a href="https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/maricopa-countys-regional-parks-to-implement-annual-fire-ban-on-may-1/" target="_blank">annual fire ban goes into effect the same day</a>. In consultation with the Phoenix Fire Department, smoking and charcoal fires are included in the ban due to the extreme fire danger that the combination of low humidity, increased temperatures, excessive dry vegetation, and frequent high winds create each spring. The ban applies to Camelback Mountain, Deem Hills Recreation Area, Lookout Mountain, Papago Park, Phoenix Mountains Park and Recreation Area, Phoenix Mountains Preserve, Phoenix Sonoran Preserve, North Mountain Park, Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area, and South Mountain Park/Preserve. The ban does not apply to the city's flatland parks. For those using the city's desert parks and preserve land, the fire ban stipulates the following: <ul dir="" class=""> <li> Open wood and charcoal fires are prohibited </li> <li> Propane or gas grills may be used, but only in established picnic areas </li> <li> Smoking outside enclosed vehicles is prohibited year-round </li> <li> Fireworks are prohibited year-round </li> </ul> Motorists traveling through or near Phoenix's desert parks and mountain preserves should use extreme care with smoking materials and dispose of those only in their vehicle's ash tray. To protect their homes, residents whose property borders the city's preserve land may remove dry shrubs, brush and grasses, and trim dead branches from trees within the 10-foot strip of land that borders their property. By creating this 10-foot "buffer zone" residents can help to protect their homes from potential brush fires in the adjacent preserve land. Preserve neighbors also should check irrigation lines and pool back-flush hoses to ensure that water is not seeping into the preserve. Outside water sources encourage unnaturally dense vegetation growth, which increases fire risk. For general information regarding removing vegetation, residents can contact a Phoenix Park Ranger at 602-495-5458 or <a href="mailto:natural.resources.pks@phoenix.gov." target="_blank">natural.resources.pks@phoenix.gov </a>. As the temperature increases and humidity drops this time of year, those utilizing the city's desert parks and mountain preserves should use extra caution. Heat-related illness is common from May to October, and generally occur because the victim has been overexposed to heat or overexerted their body based on physical condition or age. The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department and Phoenix Fire Department remind trail users to <a href="/parks/trails" target="_blank">"Take a Hike. Do it Right."</a> when enjoying the city's desert parks and mountain preserves. <a href="/parks/trails" target="_blank">View a hiking safety checklist and guidelines</a>. For the safety of pets, dogs are prohibited on any City of Phoenix trail when the temperature is 100 degrees or warmer. The Arizona Humane Society advises that temperatures in the 90s are also unsafe for pets to be outdoors. <a href="https://www.azhumane.org/events/dont-leave-pets-kids-hot-cars/" target="_blank">Learn how to keep pets safe during Arizona's warm weather months</a>. Detailed information about Phoenix's 41,000-plus acres of desert parks and mountain preserves, and 200-plus miles of trails, is available at <a href="/parks" target="_blank">Phoenix.gov/Parks</a>. </html></div>

https://www.phoenix.gov/parks

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Parks & Rec

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2724

Parks and Recreation

4/13/2023 5:30:00 PM

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Popular Phoenix Trails to Close During Extremely Hot Days

<div class="ExternalClass4BF0AAB93DF74CCCA46E63939B9CF499"><html> Update as of 8/31 <div>The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Board voted Thursday evening to expand the City’s heat safety trail program that closes popular trails during the hottest days of the year. </div><div> </div><div>The program will now be in effect all year long (previously May through October). Access will be restricted to Echo Canyon and Cholla Trails at Camelback Mountain and all trails associated with Piestewa Peak from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on days when the National Weather Service issues an Excessive Heat Warning. </div> This summer, three popular City of Phoenix hiking trails will close during extremely hot days. The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Board voted Thursday evening to expand the City’s heat safety trail program that closes popular trails during the hottest days of the year. The program will now be in effect all year long (previously May through October). Access will be restricted to Echo Canyon and Cholla Trails at Camelback Mountain and all trails associated with Piestewa Peak from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on days when the National Weather Service issues an Excessive Heat Warning. On days when the National Weather Service issues an Excessive Heat Warning, Camelback Mountain's Echo and Cholla Trails and all trails associated with Piestewa Peak Trailhead in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve will close from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. During Excessive Heat Warnings, trail access is limited, parking lot gates will be closed, and signage will be posted. Closure information will be posted on the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department's website and social media accounts, and to local resorts and hotels. Additionally, Phoenix Park Rangers will be visible at those locations to remind and educate trail users about the restrictions. To help with that recommendation, extended summer hours are in effect annually from June through September at North Mountain Park and Piestewa Peak Trailhead in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, and Pima Canyon Trailhead in South Mountain Park/Preserve. To provide an extra two hours of availability and promote hiking after 7 p.m., parking lot entrances are open until 9 p.m. at those locations. Year-round at those three trailheads, parking lots open at 5 a.m., and trails are open until 11 p.m. All other trails within the Phoenix parks system will remain open. During the Valley's warm weather months, and regardless of whether an Excessive Heat Watch is in effect, it is recommended that trail users hike during the early morning or evening hours when it is cooler and there is more shade. Looking for an open trail? There are more than 200 miles of open trails within the City of Phoenix. Visit <a href="http://www.Phoenix.gov/trails" target="_blank">Phoenix.gov/trails</a> to plan your next hike. BACKGROUND In summer 2021, the Parks and Recreation Department ran a 2 ½ month pilot program from July 13 to September 30 in which they closed these same trails to reduce heat-related injuries and deaths and reduce the risk of injuries to rescue personnel. In October of 2021, the Parks and Recreation Board formally adopted the program limiting hiking on some trails from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on National Weather Service issued Heat Warning days. The first full season of the Trails and Heat Safety Program ran from May 1, 2022, through Sept. 30, 2022, for a duration of 153 days. There were 18 <a href="http://www.weather.gov" target="_blank">National Weather Service </a>(NWS) issued Heat Warning Days and, therefore, 18 resulting trail closure days in 2022. TAKE A HIKE, DO IT RIGHT The Phoenix Parks and Recreation, and Fire departments have worked in partnership since 2015 to share the <a href="/parks/trails" target="_blank">“Take a Hike. Do it Right.</a>" hiking safety message and continue to lead with education about responsible hiking. All trail users should follow these important and potentially life-saving hiking guidelines: •Dress Appropriately: Wear proper shoes, clothing, hat, and sunscreen. •Bring Water: Hydrate before you go. Have plenty of water, more than you think you need. Turn around and head back to the trailhead before you drink half of your water. •Keep in Contact: Carry a mobile phone. •Team Up: Hike with others. If hiking solo, tell someone your start and end times, and location. •Be Honest: Do you have a medical condition? Asthma, heart problems, diabetes, knee or back problems? Don't push yourself! (Even trained athletes have been caught off guard by getting dehydrated on Arizona trails.) •Don't Trailblaze: Enjoy the Sonoran Desert's beautiful and undeveloped landscape, but please stay on designated trails. •Take Responsibility: Don't be "that person" – the one who wasn't prepared, shouldn't have been there for health reasons, or ignored safety guidelines. Be the responsible hiker, who takes a hike and does it right! For the safety of pets, dogs are prohibited on any City of Phoenix trail when the temperature is 100 degrees or warmer. The Arizona Humane Society advises that temperatures in the 90s are also unsafe for pets to be outdoors. </html></div>

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