Arizona State Parks

Arizona State Parks - Press Release

ARIZONA STATE PARKS
For Immediate Release
Managing and conserving Arizona's natural, cultural and recreational resources for the benefit of the people, both in our Parks and through our Partnerships.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Ellen Bilbrey at (602) 542-1996 or (602) 228-8518, or Monica Enriquez at (602) 542-6997… both at pio at azstateparks.gov
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HIKE THE PEAK AND CELEBRATE STATE PARKS'
50 YEARS AT PICACHO PEAK STATE PARK ON OCTOBER 27

(Phoenix, AZ - October 1, 2007) - Arizona State Parks invites you to "Hike the Peak" and celebrate its 50th Anniversary at Picacho Peak State Park. The celebration will feature hiking safety tips, food, and hike Picacho Peak on Saturday, October 27 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Sonora Search and Rescue will be on hand to give hiking safety tips and Pinal County Health Department will be there to discuss the benefits of hiking for health. Help us celebrate by hiking the Hunter Trail to the top of Picacho Peak. Hikers should be prepared with ample water (2 liters minimum per person), hiking boots, gloves for the cableways and sun protection. Please note: This is a two-mile Sonoran Desert hiking environment. The Hunter Trail is rated difficult and not recommended for inexperienced hikers and children younger than the age of 10. Average hiking time is 3 1/2 to 4 hours. There are no dogs permitted on the Hunter Trail.

Registered hikers reaching the top of the Peak will receive a certificate and Arizona State Parks giveaway items while supplies last. Participants will also be entered to win a prize drawing (must be present to win).

This event will also celebrate Arizona State Parks' 50th anniversary. This will be a celebration with dignitaries and a cake cutting under the big tent at 12:30 p.m. 50th Anniversary displays will be featured including educational booths and activities for children.

For more information call Picacho Peak State Park at (520) 466-3183. The regular $8 park entrance fee will be waived in celebration of State Parks' 50th anniversary. However, camping is available at the regular $12 to $22 fee. There are also picnic areas and ramadas available for use (Group use areas must be reserved in advance.) The park is located off I-10, on exit 219; 60 miles south of Phoenix, and 40 miles north of Tucson.

This event is part of Arizona State Parks 50th Anniversary celebration held from October 2006 through December 2007. Special events will be held at each park such as a traditional mariachi festival, plein art shows, an apple festival, geocaching, solar energy celebrations and astronomy galas. Hiking, fishing, boating and mountain biking await those individuals with an adventurous attitude. Come uncover the many secret places and stories that are still to be found in Arizona's State Parks.

The Arizona State Parks Board was established in 1957 to acquire and manage park and cultural areas. Over the years, legislation has added other programs to Arizona State Parks and as a result, the volunteer Board is responsible for a much broader spectrum of duties. These duties are related to historic preservation, archaeology, outdoor recreation, resource conservation/education and grant administration.

For information about Arizona State Parks call (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703) or visit the website at www.azstateparks.com.

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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
(all times are approximate)

7 - 8:30am - Hiker registration

8am - 12:15pm - Hikers will receive certificate and enter for the prize drawings.

8am - 1pm - 50th Event Activities: food vendors, educational booths, Sonora Search and Rescue and Pinal County Health Department

12:30pm - 50th Anniversary speakers, cake cutting, prize drawing

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