The Cave Creek Museum opens its season Oct. 1, and the Arizona Gold Mining Experience, now in its fifth year, adds a new character for its first show of the season on Oct. 24, the Cave Creek/Carefree Independent reports. Meet El Monty Jackson, a crusty old miner who the museum says was a well-to-do gambler from back East before he came to Cave Creek to try his luck in the mining district. Also on the Carefree calendar: the Glass Pumpkin Patch fundraiser at Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, 101 Easy St., listed by the Independent for Oct. 2 to 4, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, free.
This brief records the information reported on Sep 16, 2026. Opening dates and operating details may have changed.
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Carefree’s amended council agenda lists a retail development tax incentive agreement with SimonCRE Maroon IV and a separate wash-maintenance agreement for Craig’s Crossing for discussion and possible action on Tuesday, November 10. The meeting starts at 5 p.m. at Town Council Chambers, 33 Easy Street in Carefree. These are scheduled decisions, not approvals; check the town’s agenda for changes and the meeting record afterward for the outcome.
Source: Town of CarefreeDesert hills around Cave Creek. Area context photograph; the business or event in this story is not pictured. Photo: Kennito454 · CC BY-SA 3.0
Ranger Eric leads a plant hike at Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area, 44000 N. Spur Cross Road, on November 20, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The loop uses Metate Trail and part of Spur Cross Trail, with rocky, uneven ground. Register by November 18 at 602-506-2930, extension 8; the limit is 20 people. Meet by the trailhead picnic ramada and portable toilets using the event page’s map. Bring your own water. Entry is $5 per person, with children under 15 free; bring cash or an accepted pass. Check park alerts before visiting.
Source: Maricopa County ParksDesert hills around Cave Creek. Area context photograph; the business or event in this story is not pictured. Photo: Kennito454 · CC BY-SA 3.0
A ranger-led scorpion hike is scheduled for November 29, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Cave Creek Regional Park, 37019 N. Lava Lane. Meet at Slate Trailhead for a 3-mile out-and-back walk. Bring water, protective clothing, sturdy shoes and a charged flashlight; an optional blacklight can help with the search. Register by November 28 at 602-506-2930, extension 8; the limit is 25 people. Standard vehicle entry is $10. The park currently reports a water-leak closure of its Nature Center and trailhead restrooms, with campground restrooms available. Check current facilities and program status when registering.
