Do not be detoured by its name. The Prickly Pear Trail is not prickly and it is a great trail for kiddos.  This one mile loop provides great views of the mountains and surrounding neighborhoods.  It has two benches that overlook a nearby park and is a perfect spot for snacks and nature journaling.  As you follow the trail around the hill, you may even spot some water fowl hanging out near a seasonal pond down below.

This trail is a bit narrow in parts and there are some slight inclines that might prove difficult for a stroller.  The great thing about this trail is that is next to a great park, so if your kiddos still have energy afterwards, they can play on the play structure after your hike.  The park is also great for before and after restroom breaks as well as water bottle refills.

The lack of shade make this a hike ideal in cooler weather.  The lack of shade, though has also made it great for spotting hawks and other birds soaring above.  Rattlesnakes have been spotted along this trail, so be sure everyone stays on the trail.

Parking for this trail is in the Del Prado Playfields parking lot.  Just park in spots furthest away from the playground and the trailhead will greet you as you walk up to the the hillside from the sidewalk along the street.

Nature Activity Suggestions: sketching, bird watching, nature scavenger hunt, The Prickly Pear Trail Nature Journal

Directions to Prickly Pear Trail can be found here.