Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline. Volunteers will meet Park Assistant Doug Robertson outside of the main building at the entry station where he’ll sign them. After signing in, volunteers will be directed to where...
We explored the thermal ecology and environmental challenges faced by the Gopherus evgoodei tortoise species in its habitat in southern Sonora, Mexico. Firstly, we assessed the thermal quality of G. evgoodei‘s primary habitat, the tropical dry forest (TDF), and analyzed how habitat modification due to buffelgrass invasion could disrupt the available thermal landscape. We found that intact microhabitats...
Daytime tour guided by members of the Observatory staff. Visit several of our large telescopes and learn about the mission of the Naval Observatory. Reservations are required. Reservation Part of the Flagstaff Festival of Science 🎉 The Flagstaff Festival of Science is pleased to present “The Mammoth World of Science” September 22-...
Hike the treasured landscapes of the Sonoran Desert surrounding the East Valley. Each trip you’ll discover iconic cacti, canyons peppering the landscapes, and rugged trails. Trips are local and start out with easy terrain and progress to more difficult hikes later in the season. Transportation and entrance fees included. Come prepared with hiking attire, water,...
Whether you’re using a cell phone or a professional camera, the basics of photography are the same. Things like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO can strike fear in those just starting out, so we’ll define them in basic terms and discuss when, why, and how to use them. We’ll start our learning in the classroom,...
Ask a technology question and get help from our tech help expert. Bring your own laptop or mobile device, or use a library laptop. We are not able to type your documents, fix your personal devices besides basic troubleshooting, or provide tax or legal help. This is a weekly, drop-in service and registration is not...
Please note that for all Wednesday Sweetwater walks in September, we will be leading two walks of 12 participants each, both starting at 6:00 AM. Trip difficulty: Easy; Walking distance:...
Join us on an easy walk with a City of Scottsdale Natural Resources Coordinator as various desert topics are discussed. The material will depend on what we see in this wonderful environment. Location: Fraesfield Trailhead – 13400 E Rio Verde Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85262 Skill level: Easy Time: 2 hours Pets are not permitted...
The lab is open! Bring your projects, get excited, and make things! HeatSync Labs is a makerspace with tools and equipment which create a community of collaboration and learning-by-doing. Arizona's first Maker Space! Hacking Arizona Since 2009
Venture to the edge of the Tonto National Forest on this fitness hike with Ranger Derik. This 4-mile hike will wind through rolling hills, sandy washes and desert canyons while offering spectacular views of the Tonto National Forest. During the hike we will learn about the many cacti species that call the park home and...
Trip difficulty: Easy. 1 -1.5 miles on mostly flat surfaces with some uneven terrain. Trip duration approximately 2.5 hours. This bird walk is all about enjoying nature and birds. It’s about walking slow, being mindful and looking for birds and then spending time truly watching their behaviors. It’s not about the number of birds we...
This workshop is for those looking for tips and resources on how to manage their money. It covers topics such as planning your finances, budgeting, saving, credit, and debt. Attend this workshop if you would like resources to be more financially empowered.
Whatever your reason, the need is constant and your contribution is important for a healthy and reliable blood supply. Plus you’ll feel good knowing you've helped change a life. Call 1-800-733-2767 to schedule an appointment or to reserve an appointment and save on waiting register online.
Give the gift of blood at the American Red Cross Blood Drive! Appointment times can be found by going to www.redcrossblood.org and selecting the "Donating Blood" option. Masks are optional.
Join Ranger Nikki on a moderate hike to look for fall pollinators among seasonal blooms. Join Ranger Nikki on a 4-mile moderate hike to look for and identify butterflies among seasonal blooms along the trail. Learn about the Parks Department butterfly monitoring initiative and apps to help you identify butterflies and record your observations. The route...
Beat the summer heat and hike with Ranger Derik on a short 2-mile loop around the park. Click program title for more details. Get out on trails early in the morning and learn about the many cactus species found on sections of Overton, Go John, and Clay Mine trails. The trails are rated as easy...
This class will teach you everything you need to know to start vermi-composting in a 17 gallon bin. In this workshop class you will make and take home your very own worm habitat. Includes: 17 gallon bin, bedding materials, and worms Duration: 1.5hrs Notes: Each registration includes 1 guest. First half of the class is standing...
oin NAU's Apex, Arizona Archaeology Project for a guided tour of a Depression-era logging camp along the Grand Canyon Railway and learn about historical archaeology in Arizona. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water. The Tour will be outside of Tusayan, Arizona, but we will arrange a meeting place in Flagstaff. Reservations are required. Location: Meeting...
Join us for Appreciation Day and view the best-preserved meteorite impact site on Earth! This breathtaking phenomenon is the result of a powerful collision between our planet and an asteroid traveling 26,000 miles per hour. The historic event occurred over 50,000 years ago, so woolly mammoths native to this region would have observed the astonishing...
The North American Monsoon is spectacular, dangerous, beautiful, and full of surprises. Photographers and storm chasers frequently come to the Southwest to photograph and experience some of the most beautiful storms in the world, over spectacular landscapes. This presentation will showcase the photographs, science, and adventure of chasing the monsoon in the American Southwest. Webinar...
No computer experience required. Learn how to use a mouse and keyboard. Free tickets are available at the Service Desk 15 mintues before class. The computer lab is located on the 1st floor near the Teen section.
Learn about the butterflies in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve while walking along the Jane Rau trail with a butterfly expert. Did you know that butterflies taste with their feet? Or that butterfly wings are made of tiny scales? And that butterflies are an indicator of a healthy ecosystem? You’ll learn more interesting facts about butterflies...
Interact with some of our special animals, which for many people is a once in a lifetime experience. Guests will get to learn about endangered species, how we contribute to conservation of those animals, some of the considerations we must take into consideration when having these reptiles in Arizona, which reptiles are good pets for children or adults, adaptations...
Prescott Valley Public Library will be handing out Solar Eclipse in a Bag Kits on Monday, October 2nd, 2023, from 2:30-4:30 pm. On Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023, the annular solar eclipse will cross North, Central, and South America. It will be visible as it crosses the sky from Oregon to Texas. The eclipse will pass 29 national park...
Trip difficulty: Moderate with hiking approximately 2 miles along old road We’ll hike approximately two miles up this canyon located just west of Tumacacori in the so-named mountains. We’ll be looking for both fall migrants and residents in this area known for its luxuriant vegetation due to its protection from grazing. Great solitude and striking...
If you’re new to using a computer or want to build more confidence using the Windows 10 operating system, this workshop is for you. You’ll learn how to find your way around Windows 10, manage applications using the task manager, find and manage files and folders, save and delete files, and more.
Google Drive is a free online storage. Your files in Drive can be reached from any smartphone, tablet or computer. So, wherever you go, your files follow. In this course you will learn how to store, manage, and access documents in Drive. Also an introduction of Google Docs, Sheets and Slides. Pre-requisite: Gmail account and be able to...
Trip difficulty: Easy; Walking distance: 1.5 miles, Trip Duration: 2.5 hrs, Elevation gain: none, but with chance of slight inclines/declines; Ground condition: groomed gravel trails. Drinking water and restrooms available at park’s entrance. Benches available at periodic intervals around the Wetlands. This popular birding hotspot in urban Tucson offers an easy walk through marshes created...
Explore the ponds, mesquite bosque, and surrounding desert of Agua Caliente Park in search of its rich bird life. We expect to see woodpeckers, flycatchers, warblers, vireos, and more.
Spending time in nature can have healing and restorative power, relaxing both the mind and body. Slowing down to consciously engage our senses while out walking not only calms and grounds us, but also deepens our connection to the natural world. Join a Pima County naturalist for a peaceful morning stroll through the park with...
Join Marcia OBara for a leisurely birding experience designed for nature lovers with accessibility challenges; wheelchairs, walkers, or other assistive devices are welcome. The pace is slow, distance short, and terrain even. This month’s birding explores the birding hotspot of historic Canoa Ranch where we hope to see waterfowl, raptors, sparrows, and a lot more....
Join a naturalist-guided walk along Big Wash in Oro Valley, on any easy to moderate level trail. In addition to great views of the Santa Catalina Mountains, this area is designated an important wildlife corridor, so we’ll keep an eye out for native birds such as Gila woodpeckers and cactus wrens, and other desert wildlife...
Join us at the Highlands Center for Natural History during the month of October for an educational miniseries featuring the Prescott National Forest. Meeting on Thursday’s 10/5, 10/12, 10/19, 10/26 at 9am at the Equipoise statue. Presentations from Prescott National Forest officials will be held between 9:30am-11:30am. We will wrap up the day with a...
Registration for this trip is free. Trip Rating: Easy/Moderate. Walking Distance: 3 miles. Elevation Gain: 25 feet. Ground Conditions: Rocky Trails. We’ll bird Sabino Canyon Recreation Area walking a loop that includes both Sonoran desert upland and Sabino Creek riparian area. Meet at the ramada by the Visitor’s Center at 5700 N Sabino Canyon Road....
Meet other nature-loving families as we take a leisurely stroll observing nature and learning fun facts about specific zoo trails. During each tour, the guide will feature the unique horticulture, look for wildlife, and stop at zoo exhibits. This tour is great for out-of-town families wanting to know more about Arizona and the Phoenix Zoo...
Join Ranger Nikki for a 3.5-mile easy to moderate hike along Coldwater, Dysart and Butterfield Trails to observe plant and animal life that flourishes in this area of winding seasonal waterways. Learn about cacti, trees, shrubs, mammals, birds, reptiles and more. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen, snacks and plenty of water. Restrooms...
Did you know that over 300 species of birds have been found at the Hassayampa River Preserve? Enjoy an easy-paced walk with seasoned birder and bird bander Anne Leight to spot and identify the many resident and migratory birds of the Preserve. Some binoculars are available to borrow. MEETING LOCATION: Visitor Center. Limit 10 participants. To register, please...
Gear up for Maricopa County Parks and Recreation’s annual 100 Miles in 100 Days Challenge that starts on November 1. This drop-in learning session will share everything you need to know about the rules and guidelines of the challenge, how to register and log miles and how to make the most of your 100-day journey....
Are you new to birding? Need help getting started? Birding is a great way to get outside to explore nature, learn more about wildlife and wildlife behavior, hone your observation skills, reduce stress, and connect with others. Join naturalist Jeff Babson for a casual birding experience to familiarize yourself with birding basics. Loaner binoculars available....
Did you know that Oracle State Park was once covered by warm, shallow seas? Are you familiar with the numerous faults that uncovered rocks once buried more than 5 miles beneath the surface? The Park offers visitors the opportunity to experience the unique geology of the Santa Catalina Mountains area. Oracle State Park’s volunteer geologist,...
Learn the basic functions of your Android and/or iPhone camera to impress your friends or brighten your memories. We’ll spend some time going over the basics, then dive into techniques for taking pictures of people, landscapes, and animals and then editing them for social media or as keepsakes.
Phenology is nature’s calendar – the timing of annual life-cycle events that are influenced by climate and weather, like blooming, migration, and nesting. Join us for a stroll along the Santa Cruz River as we gather data on seasonal changes in native plants to learn more about phenology, its importance, and how you can help...
Take a guided stroll along the Chuck Huckelberry Loop to see a desert river brought back to life, then wander to the water’s edge for an intimate peek at this recently revived riparian habitat. Learn about the ecology and history of the Santa Cruz – its ups and downs – and how this once-dry portion...
Hike the treasured landscapes of the Sonoran Desert surrounding the East Valley. Each trip you’ll discover iconic cacti, canyons peppering the landscapes, and rugged trails. Trips are local and start out with easy terrain and progress to more difficult hikes later in the season. Transportation and entrance fees included. Come prepared with hiking attire, water,...
Join us on this easy walk over a rocky trail. In addition to seeing our year-round bird residents, we may see some migrants passing through. Possible sightings include phainopepla, American kestrel, gilded flicker, curve-billed thrasher, Abert’s towhee, or various warblers. Bring your binoculars. The Quartz Trailhead parking lot is located at McDowell Mountain Ranch Rd...
Our October presentation is not to be missed. Many of us take our irrigation systems for granted, until they stop working. Dale Suter is an avid gardener and a longtime Arizona resident. He retired after spending more than 30 years in the public sector. Over the years he has designed and installed multiple irrigation systems....
Explore the night skies from the summit of Mt. Lemmon using Arizona's LARGEST publicly available telescopes! Under the guidance of a professional, visitors will enjoy a brief astronomy lecture, a light dinner, and an exclusive opportunity to observe astronomical objects and phenomena. This five-hour program starts 2 hours prior to sunset and accommodates up to...
Want a happy & healthy pet? Come learn how to provide a healthy and safe lifestyle for your pet including pet CPR and choking & basic first aid treatment. This engaging class is designed to help build your knowledge and hands-on skills. Canine and feline training mannequins will be used during the session. This training...
Join us on an easy walk with a City of Scottsdale Natural Resources Coordinator as various desert topics are discussed. The material will depend on what we see in this wonderful environment Location: Tom’s Thumb Trailhead – 23015 N 128th St, Scottsdale, AZ, 85255 Skill level: Easy Time: 2 hours . Pets are not permitted...
Explore the night skies from the summit of Mt. Lemmon using Arizona's LARGEST publicly available telescopes! Under the guidance of a professional, visitors will enjoy a brief astronomy lecture, a light dinner, and an exclusive opportunity to observe astronomical objects and phenomena. This five-hour program starts 2 hours prior to sunset and accommodates up to...
Families are welcome every Thursday to design, create, and collaborate! Try out sewing, animating, programming, inventing, and more! Join us to CrEaTE! Every Thursday. Every Thursday, 4:30-6:00 Free thanks to generous support from the Rosenbluth Family Foundation No need to signup, just show up: 301 N. Willard St. Room 202
Explore the night skies from the summit of Mt. Lemmon using Arizona's LARGEST publicly available telescopes! Under the guidance of a professional, visitors will enjoy a brief astronomy lecture, a light dinner, and an exclusive opportunity to observe astronomical objects and phenomena. This five-hour program starts 2 hours prior to sunset and accommodates up to...
Trip difficulty: Easy. Walking Distance: 1.0-1.5 miles. Trip Duration: 2.5 hours. Ground Condition: Mostly flat surface on grass, paved and dirt pathway with some areas of uneven footing. Ample parking, restroom facilities and benches available at periodic intervals throughout the park. Welcome to Second Saturdays at Reid Park! Join Tucson Audubon at Reid Park to...
On Saturday, October 14, one of the rarest astronomical events will take place: an annular solar eclipse! Watch this sun-sational spectacle unfold with Arizona Science Center at our Annular Solar Eclipse Viewing Party—FREE to the public. To view this event safely, the Science Center will be providing eclipse glasses to all Guests to ensure proper...
Learn the basic functions of your Android and/or iPhone camera to impress your friends or brighten your memories. We’ll spend some time going over the basics, then dive into techniques for taking pictures of people, landscapes, and animals and then editing them for social media or as keepsakes.
Learn about the geology and streams of the Spur Cross region on an easy two-mile walk with nationally known earth science author and park docent Thomas McGuire. Visit an abandoned gold mine, Nutcracker Rock, and a Hohokam rock art site along Cottonwood Wash. Bring plenty of water and your natural curiosity. No dogs on this hike....
Brown Canyon Ranch was built a century ago by a local pioneer family and today includes their ranch house, storeroom, corrals, water system, and a pond that is the habitat of an endangered frog species. A visit to Brown Canyon Ranch offers a glimpse back in time and opportunities to hike and enjoy the surrounding...
Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline. Date- Every Monday from 4/10/23-10/30/23 Time – April 7:00am-9:00am May-Oct 6:00am-8:00am Location – Park at Castle Hot Springs dirt lot near the entry station. Meet with Park Assistant Doug...
This is a 2-day course on designing onsite wastewater treatment and dispersal systems using Arizona regulations primarily for gravity distribution and residential applications. A homework assignment will be used to provide practical application of material learned in the workshop. Please bring a calculator and writing implement. Prerequisite: All participants will need to have completed both...
Join Marcia OBara for a leisurely birding experience designed for nature lovers with accessibility challenges; wheelchairs, walkers, or other assistive devices are welcome. The pace is slow, distance short, and terrain even. This month’s birding explores the desert oasis of Chuck Ford Lakeside Park to see hummingbirds, sparrows, woodpeckers, and more. Finish up at 10am....
The mix of desert and riparian habitats at Cienega Creek Preserve attracts a diversity of birds. September is a great month to be out birding as fall migration is well underway. We expect to see flycatchers, tanagers, and vireos to name a few. Sections of the trail are steep and rocky. Please carry water and...
Join Ranger Kevin for a 2.8-mile morning hike on the Gila, Baseline, and Horseshoe trails. Trail segments are rated easy-moderate, so expect some loose rock, uneven terrain and elevation change. We will be on the lookout for a variety of desert plants and animals while talking about the ways climate change and extreme weather events...
Explore the ponds, mesquite bosque, and surrounding desert of Agua Caliente Park in search of its rich bird life. We expect to see woodpeckers, flycatchers, warblers, vireos, and more.
Journey north into the towering ponderosa pines, rugged red rocks, and cascading clear waterfalls of Northern Arizona. Transportation and attraction fees included. Come prepared with hiking attire, water, and trail side snacks. After the hike, you'll be able to enjoy an independent lunch at a local restaurant. Rating: Moderate. Distance: 2.7 miles. Elevation: 360ft. Ages...
Please note that for all Wednesday Sweetwater walks in October, we will be leading two walks of 15 participants each, both starting at 7:00 AM. Trip difficulty: Easy; Walking distance: 1.5 miles, Trip Duration: 2.5 hrs, Elevation gain: none, but with chance of slight inclines/declines; Ground condition: groomed gravel trails. Drinking water and restrooms available...
Join Ranger Nikki on an easy to moderate terrain 5.5-mile hike to learn about desert plants, shrubs and legume trees including bursage, palo verde and creosote. The route follows San Tan and Hedgehog Trails. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring water, a hat and sunscreen. Restrooms and water are available at the Nature Center and at...
Join a Pima County Naturalist for a guided nature trek at Maeveen Behan Desert Sanctuary to explore a patch of Sonoran Desert habitat within urban NW Tucson. Trails are smooth, largely level with some areas with gentle grades. Designed for ages 12 and up.
Join us at the Highlands Center for Natural History during the month of October for an educational miniseries featuring the Prescott National Forest. Meeting on Thursday’s 10/19, 10/26 at 9am at the Equipoise statue. Presentations from Prescott National Forest officials will be held between 9:30am-11:30am. We will wrap up the day with a Q &...
Join Ranger Nikki for a 4-mile easy to moderate hike along Shallmo Wash, Cinch, Scenic Trails to observe plant and animal life that flourishes in this area of winding seasonal waterways. Learn about cacti, trees, shrubs, mammals, birds, reptiles and more. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen, snacks and plenty of water. Restrooms...
Trip difficulty: Moderate, 1-1.5 miles on dirt trail that can be rocky in places with small inclines. Restroom and drinking water available. Bird beautiful Oracle State Park, situated at 4500 ft. elevation which means cooler temperatures and the chance to see some higher elevation species like Woodhouse’s Scrub Jay, Crissal Thrasher, and Canyon Towhee. Walk...
Trip difficulty: Easy. 1-1.5 mile loop on mostly level ground, paved & grassy surfaces with uneven areas. Restroom facilities & water available. Fort Lowell Park, an urban park located in central Tucson, draws a wide variety of bird species with its habitat mix of open fields, desert scrub, and trees. We’ll look for wintering ducks...
Join Ranger Nikki for a 3-mile easy to moderate hike to observe plant and animal life that flourishes in this area of winding seasonal waterways. Learn about cacti, trees, shrubs, mammals, birds, reptiles and more. The route follows the sandy Crismon Wash for one mile and solid gravel terrain on Blevins, Channel and NoSo Trails....
Trip difficulty: Easy. 1.5 mile loop over mostly level dirt paths. Public restrooms are available. The lower portion of Lincoln Regional Park along Atturbury Wash in SE Tucson provides a mix of urban and natural habitat. This is a good place for beginning birders to get to know some of the most common birds living...
Come join us for a quiet walk along our easy to moderate scenic trails in search of local and migratory birds. "Owls and Vultures" program will follow inside the Nature Center. Meet for the bird walk on the back patio of the Cave Creek Regional Park Nature Center at 7:30am. No dogs allowed. Free with Park Fee
Phenology is nature’s calendar – the timing of annual life-cycle events that are influenced by climate and weather, like blooming, migration, and nesting. Join us for a stroll along the Santa Cruz River as we gather data on seasonal changes in native plants to learn more about phenology, its importance, and how you can help...
One Sky is a brand new fulldome show that talks about the the night sky from the perspective of a different culture or Indigenous society from around the globe. Audience: General, all ages Style: Fulldome film followed by live talk Planetarium Tickets Adults: $12 Children (ages 3-15): $8 Children ages 2 and under: Free Discounted Rates...
Expedition Reef show reveals in exquisite detail the breathtaking beauty and biodiversity of coral reefs—and the scientists taking action to restore them. Recommended for general audiences. Themes: Sea, Climate, Biology Style: Fulldome documentary followed by live presentation Planetarium Tickets Adults: $12 Children (ages 3-15): $8 Children ages 2 and under: Free Discounted Rates Seniors (55+) and...
Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline. Date- Every Monday from 4/10/23-10/30/23 Time – April 7:00am-9:00am May-Oct 6:00am-8:00am Location – Park at Castle Hot Springs dirt lot near the entry station. Meet with Park Assistant Doug...
Interact with some of our special animals, which for many people is a once in a lifetime experience. Guests will get to learn about endangered species, how we contribute to conservation of those animals, some of the considerations we must take into consideration when having these reptiles in Arizona, which reptiles are good pets for children or adults, adaptations...
Learn how best to use the iPhone camera in any situation. Explore the camera modes-Photo, Video, Portrait and Pano--with examples of using them creatively.
Join a Pima County birding expert to see what surprises fall migration has brought. We may see early waterfowl, as well as shorebirds, raptors, and more.
The 2023 STEM & Innovation Summit is an exciting opportunity to come together as a community. Meet us downtown in Heritage Square to connect with educators, community members, and collaborators as we dive into STEM resources, best practices, community involvement, hands-on activities, and more. Snag your tickets now before early bird pricing ends on September...
Join Ranger Derik for an approximately 3-mile hike out and back on the Wild Burro Trail. We’ll be pausing to talk about safe hiking practices and how to stay safe hiking in a desert environment. Topics covered will be what to pack, water, how to choose a trail, and how to prep for a hike...
Please note that for all Wednesday Sweetwater walks in October, we will be leading two walks of 15 participants each, both starting at 7:00 AM. Trip difficulty: Easy; Walking distance: 1.5 miles, Trip Duration: 2.5 hrs, Elevation gain: none, but with chance of slight inclines/declines; Ground condition: groomed gravel trails. Drinking water and restrooms available...
Join Ranger Eric for an easy-paced, interpretive walk along the Preserve trails to learn about the plants, animals, ecology, and history of the Hassayampa River Preserve. Please wear sun protection, sturdy footwear, and carry ample water. Binoculars are available to borrow at the Visitor Center. We will hike about 1-1.5 miles roundtrip on mostly flat,...
Join us on an easy walk with a City of Scottsdale Natural Resources Coordinator as various desert topics are discussed. The material will depend on what we see in this wonderful environment. Location: Brown’s Ranch Trailhead – 30301 N. Alma School Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85262 Skill level: Easy Time: ~2 hours Pets are...
Join Ranger Eric for an interpretive hike to learn about the animals, plants, and ecology of the Sonoran Desert. This is generally the last time of year to find reptiles active, so we may see lizards, snakes, or even a tortoise. Migrant birds will be still passing through, including sparrow flocks starting to arrive. We...
Join the expert archaeologist and historic preservationist and revisit three hundred years of European-Native American contacts and conflicts, from Coronado to Alamo (1540-1850). Location: Fraesfield Trailhead – 13400 E Rio Verde Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85262 Skill level: Moderate Distance: ~4 miles | Time: ~3 hours Pets are not permitted at our activities due...
Trip difficulty: Easy. 1 -1.5 miles on mostly flat surfaces with some uneven terrain. Trip duration approximately 2.5 hours. This bird walk is all about enjoying nature and birds. It’s about walking slow, being mindful and looking for birds and then spending time truly watching their behaviors. It’s not about the number of birds we...
Las Cienegas/Sonoita “Birds and Brews”, 7am – 1pm $35/member, $50/non-member Let’s combine a few of our favorite things in one fun field trip! We’ll start with exploring the Las Cienegas...
Join Ranger Eric for a guided hike to learn about the animals, plants, and ecology of the Sonoran Desert. This is generally the last time of year to find reptiles active, so we may see lizards, snakes, or even a tortoise. Migrant birds will be still passing through, including sparrow flocks starting to arrive. We...
Trip difficulty: Moderate, 1-1.5 miles on dirt trail that can be rocky in places with small inclines. Restroom and drinking water available. Bird beautiful Oracle State Park, situated at 4500 ft. elevation which means cooler temperatures and the chance to see some higher elevation species like Woodhouse’s Scrub Jay, Crissal Thrasher, and Canyon Towhee. Walk...
Join experienced birder Joe Ford for a morning bird walk followed by a special presentation! Join experienced birder Joe Ford for a morning bird walk followed by a special presentation! Meet on the south patio of the Nature Center. Program to follow in the Nature Center “Cryptic Birds of the Night” Free with Park...
Join Ranger Eric for a guided bird walk to look and listen for resident and migrant species within the diverse desert riparian habitat of the Hassayampa River Preserve. Along the way we will discuss how to identify birds by sight and sound, and about the behavioral and ecological traits that make them unique. Some binoculars...
Join us for a leisurely walk in the areas below Tom’s Thumb. Slower pace and frequent stops with time to admire the great views and treasures on the ground as well as discussions about desert topics. Location: Tom’s Thumb Trailhead – 23015 N 128th St, Scottsdale, AZ, 85255 Skill level: Easy Distance: ~1.2 miles...
Trip difficulty: Easy. Walking Distance: 1.5-2 miles loop. Trip Duration: 2.5 hours. Ground Condition: Paved and dirt pathway with some slopes, uneven footing and loose gravel. Ample parking, restroom facilities and benches available at periodic intervals throughout the park. Welcome to Sunday in the Parks! The last Sunday of the month we venture to one of...
Discover how native Americans used plants to fulfill their basic needs. Location: Brown’s Ranch Trailhead – 30301 N. Alma School Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85262 Skill level: Easy Time: ~3 hours Pets are not permitted at our activities due to safety concerns. If you would like to request an accommodation for your service animal, please contact...
The University of Arizona’s beloved and iconic Old Main encapsulates the larger campus history of landscape evolution and innovation. Since the campus grounds have been used as a living laboratory, over time plant selection, design preferences, and landscape management practices have evolved increasingly toward a model of sustainability for urban deserts. As part of the...
Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline. Date- Every Monday from...
Hike the treasured landscapes of the Sonoran Desert surrounding the East Valley. Each trip you’ll discover iconic cacti, canyons peppering the landscapes, and rugged trails. Trips are local and start...
Interact with some of our special animals, which for many people is a once in a lifetime experience. Guests will get to learn about endangered species, how we contribute to conservation of those animals,...
If you’re new to using a computer or want to build more confidence using the Windows 10 operating system, this workshop is for you. You’ll learn how to find your...
Interact with some of our special animals, which for many people is a once in a lifetime experience. Guests will get to learn about endangered species, how we contribute to conservation of those animals,...
Gift the gift of blood at the American Red Cross Blood Drive! Appointment times can be found by going to www.redcrossblood.org and selecting the "Donating Blood" option. Masks are required in building and for entry.
Please note that for all Wednesday Sweetwater walks in November, we will be leading two walks of 15 participants each, both starting at 7:00 AM. Trip difficulty: Easy; Walking distance:...
It’s time again for the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation annual 100-mile trail challenge! November 1 is the official start date so take the first steps to your goal on a guided hike with Ranger Nikki. The route is 5.5 miles on the easy to moderate terrain of San Tan and Hedgehog Trails but you...
Join in a conversation on how educators and community members like you can help improve learning in classrooms. The Next Education Workforce™ at Arizona State University’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers...
Earn your Certificate in Nutrition from the University of Arizona! You are invited to participate in a series of nutrition classes offered by the University of Arizona. Classes are offered in partnership with the City of Glendale and are free! Class dates: November 2, 16, 30, December 7, 14. YOU MUST REGISTER SEPARATELY FOR ALL 5 CLASSES Also,...
Join Ranger Nikki to learn about plants that grow along the upper park trails and those that grow along lower areas along the creek. The route uses Spur Cross, Tortuga and Dragonfly trails and a short portion of roadway to return to the parking lot. Portable restrooms are available at the trailhead. Be sure to...
Join us on an easy walk with a City of Scottsdale Natural Resources Coordinator as various desert topics are discussed. The material will depend on what we see in this wonderful environment. Location: Gateway Trailhead – 18333 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy. Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Skill level: Easy Time: ~2 hours Pets are not permitted at...
Looking for a job? We can help with: writing a resume or cover letter, creating an email account, searching online for jobs, completing online job applications, preparing for an interview....
Enjoy an easy-to-moderate terrain hike to learn about desert plants, shrubs and legume trees including bursage, palo verde and creosote with Ranger Nikki. The route uses Wagner, Granite and Bluff...
Trip Rating: Easy/Moderate. Walking Distance: 3 miles. Elevation Gain: 25 feet. Ground Conditions: Rocky Trails. We’ll bird Sabino Canyon Recreation Area walking a loop that includes both Sonoran desert upland and Sabino Creek riparian area. Meet at the ramada by the Visitor’s Center at 5700 N Sabino Canyon Road. Parking fee ($8) or pass required....
Hike the treasured landscapes of the Sonoran Desert surrounding the East Valley. Each trip you’ll discover iconic cacti, canyons peppering the landscapes, and rugged trails. Trips are local and start...
Ranger Nikki will lead you on an easy-to-moderate terrain hike to look for saguaros, cholla and barrel cacti along with a variety of animals such as birds, lizards, deer and more. The route follows Slate and Flume Trails for an out-and-back total of 5 miles. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring snacks and plenty of water....
Saturday November 4, 2023, 8am-11am (Repeats on Saturday November 11) At Mission Garden’s North Field This event is FREE. All monetary gifts are appreciated. At Mission Garden’s "Growing Great Garlic"...
First Saturday of the month, 8-9am At Mission Garden, meet inside the front gate of the garden $10, Spots limited: Register and pay here. Learn about the 50 medicinal plants in Mission Garden's Moore Medicinal Garden. The plants are native to the American Southwest deserts and in many cases have been used for millennia. Modern...
The Astronomical Data Analysis Software and Systems (ADASS) conference will be held IN PERSON this year, hosted by the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory of the University of Arizona, NOIRLab, Steward Observatory, and the Planetary Science Institute. November 5 - 9 REGISTER ADASS provides a forum for scientists and programmers concerned with algorithms, software, and software...
Join us on this walk for a good chance to see some of our year-round bird residents such as: cactus wren, gila woodpecker, ladder-backed woodpecker, Harris’s hawk, verdin or Say’s phoebe – as well as some seasonal arrivals. Bring your binoculars. Location: Granite Mountain trailhead – 31402 N 136th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85262 Skill level:...
Learn about the geology and streams of the Spur Cross region on an easy two-mile walk with nationally known earth science author and park docent Thomas McGuire. Visit an abandoned gold mine, Nutcracker Rock, and a Hohokam rock art site along Cottonwood Wash. Bring plenty of water and your natural curiosity. No dogs on this hike....