This field trip begins in Camp Verde where we will turn off from South Oasis Road and go up Forest Service Road 136 to trailhead parking adjacent to the Copper Canyon drainage.

We will bird desert scrub, pinon/juniper, and riparian habitat. Most years there is a trickle of water and a small waterfall in Copper Canyon for a portion of this trip. After birding, we will be treated to lunch at nearby Salt Mine Wine Vineyard and Winery. During lunch, Chip Norton will talk about current efforts in Camp Verde to maintain/improve summer flows in the Verde River. On this trip there will be three miles of walking on mostly level, but sometimes rough ground. Optional rock scrambling is required to view the waterfall. Restrooms are available at the trailhead parking location. Please bring water, a hat, sunscreen, and a snack.

Part of the Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival

Join us 100 miles North of Phoenix in North Central Arizona’s Verde Valley for the Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival. Experience birding during the peak Spring migration season at Dead Horse Ranch State Park on the banks of the Verde River. Close proximity to the Verde, Oak Creek, Sycamore Creek, and other perennial waters offers a wide selection of guided tours, hikes, and workshops in one of Arizona’s richest birding habitats.

Our experienced guides have extensive knowledge of birds and the unique habitat that makes this region special. The festival, presented each April by Friends of the Verde River, is a purpose-driven community benefit organization and 501(c) 3 non-profit working to preserve one of the last perennial flowing rivers in the American Southwest.

Festival site is at Dead Horse Ranch State Park.