CANTIL — Visitors can learn how desert plants and animals survive in harsh conditions during docent-led nature walks at Red Rock Canyon State Park, 37749 Abbott Drive, Cantil.
The free Guided Nature Walk begins at the front of the Ricardo Visitor Center from 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17. It will be repeated at the same time on Saturday, Oct. 24, and Saturday, Oct. 31.
Docents will talk about the area’s plants and their flowers, as well as the small animals and how they have adapted to the desert environment.
The hike is a quarter-mile and has no inclines, but participants must walk down into and back up out of a wash, which involves a high step in each direction. The walk is open to everyone, though children under 5 are not recommended. Pets are not allowed. Cactus grows along the trail, so even service dogs should be kept close.
Participants should bring water and dress for the weather. Rain will cancel the event.
While the walk is free, the park’s day-use fee is $6. Cards are accepted.
For more information or to request special accommodations, call (442) 247-5160. The park notes that events may change because of weather, staffing, maintenance projects, natural resource management activities or other unexpected issues.
More information about Red Rock Canyon State Park is online.