Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike

On this unique experience, you'll explore the Sonoran Desert in Phoenix under a canopy of darkness. Armed with a UV flashlight, you’ll uncover scorpions—their exoskeletons aglow in mesmerizing blue-green hues—and other cool things that glow at night. City lights twinkle in the distance, while above, a canvas of moon and stars unfolds. It’s a dance between the earthly and the cosmic, leaving you both humbled and exhilarated.

1. 1

   Phoenix

   15 min

   First, we’ll take a few minutes to get acquainted just before dusk at a little-known trailhead in North Phoenix. Next, we'll make our way into the desert on a gently sloped trail with great views of the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, with Piestewa Peak-second tallest in Phoenix-rising high above.

2. 2

   Phoenix Mountains Preserve

   1.1 hours

   For this fun, nighttime glow hike in the iconic Sonoran Desert of Arizona, I’ll provide everything your group needs for an unforgettable outing. As daylight fades to night, we’ll hike into the desert. When the only light is the glow of stars and distant city lights, everyone’s invited to switch on their special ”black light” flashlights that I’ll provide. You’ll be amazed by the number of bioluminescent things your magic light reveals that are invisible in broad daylight or with a regular flashlight. Be mesmerized by glowing insects, minerals and fossilized algae to name a few of the objects we’ll see. In case that’s not enough, you’ll laugh like a kid as members of your crew light up like glow sticks when you aim your purple beam at them. After spotting cool finds and once-in-a-lifetime photo opps, we'll head back to starting point. Want to take it to the next level? Wear blacklight-friendly clothing for the hike.

3. 3

   Phoenix

   10 min

   As we approach the high point of the tour, you'll be amazed by the splendor of millions of city lights stretching for miles across the Valley of the Sun.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Must be able to walk 2 miles on rugged, hilly terrain.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.