Scottsdale plans to close the McDowell Sonoran Preserve at noon on Saturday, July 4 because of elevated wildfire danger, the city said.

The city said all trailheads and access points will have “Closed” signs posted. Scottsdale Park Rangers, preserve department staff and McDowell Sonoran Conservancy stewards will patrol the preserve on the holiday to advise visitors about the closure.

The city warned that violating the preserve closure may result in a Class 2 misdemeanor, which can carry up to four months in jail and a $750 fine. It said more serious cases could be upgraded to a Class 1 misdemeanor, with up to six months in jail and a fine up to $2,500.

Scottsdale said the preserve will reopen at 4:52 a.m. on Sunday, July 5.

The city said Pinnacle Peak Park, located at 26802 N. 102nd Way, will remain open from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, July 4.

For more information, the city directs residents to visit ScottsdaleAZ.gov and search for “Preserve.”

Scottsdale, AZ

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