Maricopa County Parks and Recreation is hosting activities for visitors to McDowell Mountain Regional Park, a neighbor to Fountain Hills.

From 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 17, residents are invited to spend the morning hiking through the desert with Ranger Jacque and learn about the many medicinal and edible plants that can be found in the Sonoran Desert.

Participants will hike for three miles through rolling hills and sandy washes on the North Loop Trail. The trail is rated as easy and only has a few spots that could be described as rocky. Ranger Jacque will talk about the native edible and medicinal plants that are found along the trail. All plants are subject to seasonal changes so not all plants will be fruiting. The trailhead is a couple of miles past the Visitors Center and has no bathroom or water fountain so make sure to plan ahead and allow time to arrive at the trailhead.

There is a limit of 15 participants for this event. To register call the Nature Center at (602) 506-2930 ext. 3 with a name, phone number and number of people attending. Those who find they cannot attend a program after they have registered, call the Nature Center ASAP so those on the waiting list may be contacted. Registration for this program will close on Tuesday, Oct. 15.

From 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17, experience the “Quiet Hour” at McDowell Mountain Park. Feel inner peace outside in this guided four-step process led by Ranger Jacque. Those looking for a break from the noise and stress can find a new way to enjoy nature.

The Quiet Hour process blends nine techniques or influences that research indicates have a calming or uplifting effect. This seated program is for all abilities, ages 12 and up. Restrooms are available at the Nature Center, which is the meeting location. For maximum comfort, wear comfortable clothing and shoes, bring water, and a mat or towel to sit on. No pets are allowed. There is no registration required for this activity.

McDowell Mountain Regional Park entrance is located on McDowell Mountain Road (Fountain Hills Boulevard out of Fountain Hills) about four miles north of Glenbrook Boulevard.