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Glendale’s Jingle Bell Hike off ers family fun

BY LAURA LATZKO Glendale Star Staff Writer

The holidays provide plenty of opportunities to bond with family and friends.

In Arizona, some call hiking a special tradition.

During Glendale’s Jingle Bell Hike on Saturday, Dec. 11, participants can explore Thunderbird Conservation Park. The hike goes 2 miles along the moderate Sunrise Trail.

Heidi Barriga, Glendale’s special events administrator, said the trail is easier than others at the park and is geared toward hikers of all levels, including children. The activity is an affordable option for families, as it is free and requires no pre-registration. Children must be accompanied by adults, and hikers are encouraged to wear closed-toed shoes and bring water.

“We are trying to make it simple, get people out and get them excited to be back out on the trails and enjoy the weather,” Barriga said.

“There are a lot of people who don’t know these trails exist. It just introduces them to hiking, nature and what the whole conservation park has to offer. Maybe in a couple of years, they will go up a harder course. You never know.”

Sticking with the Christmas spirit, children can visit with Santa at the top of the trail. Barriga said it’s the perfect spot for a creative photo opportunity.

“Guests can choose to take a picture with him, tell him what they want for Christmas or just wave hi and come back down,” Barriga said.

“We get lots of people out there anxious to get up and see him.”

Visiting with Santa outdoors is a safe alternative to shopping centers. Barriga recommends arriving early to meet with Santa.

“Families who can hike, they’re not going indoors into the malls to see Santa. This is an opportunity for them to be outdoors and take that route,” Barriga said. “This year, we are excited to get people back out and have some holiday cheer out there.”

Barriga said the event is special, as many families have made it a tradition — even donning holiday-themed socks or ugly Christmas sweaters. Some hikers spend the whole morning at the park with their kids.

“We see people sitting down eating their healthier breakfasts, kids running around,” Barriga said.

“The park itself is so massive, and there’s so much to do, in terms of kids playing in the dirt and running around looking at nature.”

After the hike, families can grab jingle bell-themed make-and-take crafts, stickers and candy.

During the Jingle Bell Hike, participants can take pictures with Santa at the top of the trail. (Photo courtesy of the city of Glendale)

Jingle Bell Hike

WHEN: 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 11 WHERE: Thunderbird Conservation Park, 22800 N. 59th Avenue, Glendale. Check in near 59th Avenue entrance COST: Free INFO: glendaleaz.com

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