Learn about the abundance of food that grows on trees throughout the desert. Learn about the bean trees that can be harvested like mesquite, ironwood, palo verde and carob. Enjoy samples of edible plants foraged from the desert and take-home recipes. Instructed by Peggy Sue Creekmore (Sorensen). Garden admission included with class purchase.
Spend Memorial Day outside to learn all about plants of the Sonoran Desert during this guided hike with Ranger Olivia. Enjoy a guided nature hike along some of our trails to see all the beauty the desert plants have to offer. We will be along the Vista and Merkle trails which are rated moderate-easy with...
Reid Park Zoo is open Memorial Day, Monday, May 26 In honor of all who have served and those still serving we are offering free admission for Active duty, National Guard and Reserve, Veterans, and Retired members of the military (with Military, VA, or Retiree ID). Military dependents will receive discounted admission of $5. *Military Members do not need to be...
Join us for a week of reptile fun! This is the perfect introduction into learning about all groups of reptiles; snakes, tortoises, turtles, lizards, crocodilians, and MORE! The best way to learn about the animals is from the animals themselves! Each day includes activities that are STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Math) oriented, but...
In our region, we are fortunate to have so much sun and scenery, and so many interesting plants. But water is precious and expensive. How can you have an attractive landscape, and, at the same time, keep the water bill under control? Let us show you how to use the principles of Xeriscaping to build...
Late evening light ignites the varnished hues of high desert sandstone. The deepening shadows make the peckings of ancient rock art more visible. Bouquets of yellow prince’s plume flowers burst forth from the crevices between boulders at the bases of cliffs. As the light fades, the first planets pop out of the heavens, then come...
(AM - JUNIORS) Draw, Code & Play with Root Robotics The Root Coding Robot was created by the same company famous for the Roomba vacuum. The Root's kid-friendly coding interface helps younger campers learn the basics of robotic programming. The Root can be programmed to move, light up, play sound, and even draw various geometric...
Trip difficulty: Easy; Walking distance: 1.5 miles, Trip Duration: 3 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...
Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area...
Join us to walk around Liberty Wildlife during our public open hours and see us fulfilling our mission! In the months of May, June, July and September, we are open from 9am until 11am. Our admission is simply donation based - whatever you feel you can give. There are no set programs, but volunteers are...
Join Ranger Derik on a morning hike through the park in search of Cacti and other native Sonoran Desert plants. We will travel 2 miles out and back along the State trail gaining roughly 100ft of elevation in the process. Along the hike you will learn about the many species of cacti that can be...
This casual meet-up is perfect for those who enjoy going outside, sketching, observing, and meeting fellow nature enthusiasts. Join the Southern Arizona Nature Journal Club to learn about Nature Journaling, and immerse yourself in the natural world. The group meets at our park’s entrance at 8 am and explores a different aspect of the park...
Come explore the Children’s Garden every Tuesday and Thursday morning! Water the plants, discover vibrant flowers, observe buzzing insects, and check out the veggies and herbs—there’s always something new to see and learn!
Trip Difficulty: Moderate but some walking and hiking uphill on pavement and uneven terrain, maybe 400’ elevation gain and 3 to 4 miles total in course of trip depending on areas covered, bathrooms should be available in Summerhaven. Details of route will be available week of trip, plan on starting in Summerhaven, birding Turkey Run...
Learn about the resident and migrant birds of desert riparian areas on this guided walk with Ranger Eric. 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...
Discover the fascinating world of our scaly neighbors! Learn to identify local reptiles and finally uncover the answer to the age-old question: Why do lizards do push-ups? Get up close with non-venomous snakes, lizards, tortoises, and more in this engaging, hands-on experience! This wildlife experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
Join Ranger Olivia on this difficult but rewarding fitness hike up to the Wind Cave! This hike is rated difficult with an elevation incline of about 812 feet along a 3-mile out and back trail. This trail is mostly rocky and uneven, but has a beautiful lookout point at the top. Hiking poles might be...
Join Dr. Celia Holm for a morning walk around the Arboretum grounds. Walk begins promptly at 7:30 am. Limited to 15 participants. Pre-registration is required.
Join our community effort to restore Tanque Verde Creek! We invite people of all ages, diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds, beliefs, and many other diverse communities to participate in restoring our heritage of seasonal and year-round water flows. Come work with WMG staff and other River Run Network volunteers in a beautiful riparian area to...
Learn about the resident and migrant birds of desert riparian areas on this guided walk with Ranger Eric. 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...
Join us for a guided hike every Sunday morning! We will meet at the first lagoon parking lot at (unless otherwise noted at the entrance station). Hikes will vary each week to explore the different areas of the park. Hikes will be easy to moderate and last approximately an hour- two hours long. Please bring...
Join us to walk around Liberty Wildlife during our public open hours and see us fulfilling our mission! In the months of May, June, July and September, we are open from 9am until 11am. Our admission is simply donation based - whatever you feel you can give. There are no set programs, but volunteers are...
Who cleans up after the animals? Who makes sure they are healthy and happy? Join us to discover the answer to these questions and so much more! Kindergarten June 2 – 6 Summer Camp Zoo 2025 Have you ever wanted to work at a zoo? A wide variety of people and skills are needed...
How can you be part of the Zoo’s team? This summer, explore how the Phoenix Zoo helps wildlife and how you can make a difference, too! Grades 1 - 2 June 2 – 6 Summer Camp Zoo 2025 Have you ever wanted to work at a zoo? A wide variety of people and...
Who are the most valuable players at the Zoo? The answer may surprise you! Join us as we figure out the roles that both people and animals play at the Zoo. Grades 3 - 4 June 2 – 6 Summer Camp Zoo 2025 Have you ever wanted to work at a zoo? A...
Join Ranger Derik on an easy/moderate hike to through the Estrella foothills before the day really heats up! Ranger Derik lead you on the hike and will periodically stop to talk about the history and ecology of the park. The hike will cover 3.2 miles and gain roughly 300 ft of elevation on rocky and...
Join Ranger Derik on an easy/moderate hike to walk amount rolling foothills of the Estrella Mountains and learn about the many cactus species that call the park home. Ranger Derik will take you on a roughly 3 mile hike with minimal elevation gain on terrain ranging from even and smooth to uneven with small to...
Stop by the nature center after your morning hikes and learn about how to safely hike in the parks as summer kicks into full swing with Ranger Derik. Ranger Derik will have a short 30-40 minute presentation set up covering topics about preparing and staying safe in the front county and backcountry of the Maricopa...
Trip difficulty: Easy; Walking distance: 1.5 miles, Trip Duration: 3 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...
Join Ranger Derik on an easy/moderate hike to walk amount rolling foothills of the Estrella Mountains and learn about the many cactus species that call the park home. Website program details: Ranger Derik will take you on a roughly 3 mile hike with minimal elevation gain on terrain ranging from even and smooth to uneven...
Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area...
Trip difficulty: Easy. 1 -1.5 miles on mostly flat surfaces with some uneven terrain. Trip duration approximately 2.5 – 3 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...
Trip difficulty: Moderate difficulty – for bicyclists accustomed to riding on a paved trail, in formation. The Chuck Huckelberry Loop follows the major drainages while encircling Tucson, passing by some of the favorite TBA Field Trip Locations. This is a moving trip following the Santa Cruz River north from Sweetwater, ending a little north of...
Meet at the Native Seed Garden (Near Maintenance Compound). It is time to harvest seeds! Join us for a celebration of native seeds!! As we strive to improve native biodiversity within the parks. Registering is required via sign-up.com. Events start at 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Participants will learn to identify native plants in their...
Join Ranger Nikki on a 4.5-mile easy to moderate hike at sunrise to enjoy the sights and sounds of the morning desert. We will watch for birds, mammals and reptiles as the sun rises and the day warms up. We might also see nocturnal creatures finishing their business and settling down for their rest time....
Join Ranger Derik on a moderate hike through the Estrella foothills. Ranger Derik leads a roughly 4 mile out-and-back hike through the Estrella Foothills. The terrain ranges from even and smooth to uneven with small to medium rocks underfoot. No pets, please. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring plenty of water. Restrooms and water are available...
Trip difficulty: Moderate, ~3.5 miles on uneven, variable terrain, with 500ft elevation gain. Bird beautiful Madera Canyon. Walking about 3.5 miles roundtrip with 500 ft. elevation gain on variable terrain. Exact details of route will be sent to participants the week of trip. Bring water and snacks/lunch, although Santa Rita Lodge does sell beverages and snacks....
Trip Difficulty: Moderate, distance: up to 2 miles, duration: 2.5-3 hours, trail conditions: Most of the walk is slightly up the mountain road, hard packed dirt. There is a steep hill up at first then down to the wash and 1K miles marker. Anyone who feels they can’t hike it can drive over to the...
Get outside this summer with our staff on a family friendly educational hike! On this sunrise hike, learn about our unique collection plants, Sonoran Desert ecology, and meet our resident Sonoran Desert Tortoises. Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes, sun protective clothing, and bring plenty of water. Sign up for this free hike at the...
Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area...
Learn about reptiles and amphibians on this guided walk with Ranger Eric. Join Ranger Eric to go herping (looking for reptiles and amphibians) at this desert oasis! We will discuss identification and behavior of Sonoran Desert and riparian herpetofauna as we go on this easy stroll. Please wear sturdy footwear and sun protection, carry ample...
Stop by the Nature Center to learn about and meet San Tan’s animal ambassadors with Ranger Nikki during this drop-in session. Ranger Nikki will introduce you to San Tan’s animal ambassadors, including snakes, tortoises, a chuckwalla and a Gila monster. Learn about their life cycles, adaptations and what you should do if you encounter their...
Take a sketchbook out onto the Garden trails (weather permitting) to do some deep observation, learning to look at nature in a new way and ask questions about the world around us. This will be a mix of nature sketching, personal journaling, and scientific observations as used by field biologists (no science backgrounds required–just a...
Crazy with Curiosity: Scientists in Nature! Wondering what to do for summer break? Come to the Highlands Center for Nature Camp! Campers will spend their time outdoors, learning about different fields of science. Campers will go from being ornithologists to chemists, to entomologists to anything in between. We will explore, play games, take part in...
Delve into the unique wonders of the desert surrounding South Mountain! Nestled in the heart of one of Arizona's most striking natural landscapes, our camp offers an immersive experience designed to ignite curiosity, foster environmental stewardship, and create unforgettable memories. This program is designed for Brownies to earn their Eco Learner badge during a five-day...
Delve into the unique wonders of the desert surrounding South Mountain! Nestled in the heart of one of Arizona's most striking natural landscapes, our camp offers an immersive experience designed to ignite curiosity, foster environmental stewardship, and create unforgettable memories. This program is designed for Brownies to earn their Eco Learner badge during a five-day...
Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. Hikes are included with park entrance fees...
Come explore the Children’s Garden every Tuesday and Thursday morning! Water the plants, discover vibrant flowers, observe buzzing insects, and check out the veggies and herbs—there’s always something new to...
One of the most common questions we get asked is “When is the best time to go birding in Southeast Arizona?” Well, it’s hard to pinpoint the best month, because there is something unique during every season. While it is hot, the summer season can offer some of the best birding of the whole year....
Trip difficulty: Easy; Walking distance: 1.5 miles, Trip Duration: 3 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...
Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area...
Join us to walk around Liberty Wildlife during our public open hours and see us fulfilling our mission! In the months of May, June, July and September, we are open...
Learn about birds of Sonoran Desert riparian areas during this guided hike with Ranger Eric. Join Ranger Eric for a guided hike along the Dragonfly Trail at Spur Cross and adjacent Jewel of the Creek Preserve to look for birds of the Sonoran Desert and riparian habitats. Along the way, we will discuss identification tips...
A morning walk around the North loop with Ranger Shaun. Come walk the easy 2.9-mile loop of North trail with Ranger Shaun and learn about our desert ecosystem and some of the critters that call it home. With Summer knocking at the door, we’ll be on the lookout for all sorts of wildlife, especially before...
Join Ranger Derik on an easy/moderate hike through history and learn about the native peoples that once called the White Tank Mountains home. Ranger Derik leads this hike along sections...
Trip Difficulty: Moderate but some walking and hiking uphill on pavement and uneven terrain, maybe 400’ elevation gain and 3 to 4 miles total in course of trip depending on areas covered, bathrooms should be available in Summerhaven. Details of route will be available week of trip, plan on starting in Summerhaven, birding Turkey Run...
Get the morning started off right with a walk though cacti and along the lake guided by a Ranger. Ranger Derik will lead this hike along the Wild burro trail and talk about the many cacti species that call the park home. The terrain ranges from even and smooth to uneven with small to medium...
Meet at the park’s Nature Center. It is time to harvest seeds! Join us for a celebration of native seeds!! As we strive to improve native biodiversity within the parks. Registering is required via sign-up.com. Events start at 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Participants will learn to identify native plants in their seed stage, and...
$35/member; $50/non-member Trip difficulty: Easy. Walking distance: around 1 mile at the most. Trip Duration: 1.5 – 2 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 field workshop is meant for...
Trip difficulty: Easy. Travel is about 2 miles on level formed trails, with occasional gentle slopes. Rio Vista Park is one of two Natural Resource Parks within the City of Tucson. Nearly 80% of the park is undeveloped with open scrub the predominant vegetation, as well as some densely vegetated areas. The remainder is recreation area....
Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area...
Join us for a stroll along the Santa Cruz River to discover the seasonal rhythm of the desert. 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...
Learn about the dragonflies and damselflies of this desert oasis on a guided walk with Ranger Eric. Did you know over 140 species of dragonflies and damselflies have been found in Arizona? Of those, over 50 species have been found at the Preserve! Join Ranger Eric on a guided walk along River Ramble and Palm...
Come celebrate Dad at the Gardens! We’re celebrating Plant Dads, Dog Dads, and Best Dads this Father’s Day, June 15. Treat the father-figures in your life with a visit to the more than 20 curated garden spaces including the Cactus & Succulent Garden and The Great Garden Express model train exhibit set in an Arizona Sky Islands...
Who cleans up after the animals? Who makes sure they are healthy and happy? Join us to discover the answer to these questions and so much more! Kindergarten June 16 - 20 Summer Camp Zoo 2025 Have you ever wanted to work at a zoo? A wide variety of people and skills are needed...
Crazy with Curiosity: Scientists in Nature! Wondering what to do for summer break? Come to the Highlands Center for Nature Camp! Campers will spend their time outdoors, learning about different fields of science. Campers will go from being ornithologists to chemists, to entomologists to anything in between. We will explore, play games, take part in...
Learn the essentials of hiking and nature trail exploration through hands-on experiences and engaging activities. Set against the backdrop of stunning natural landscapes, this camp will equip participants with the skills and knowledge to safely and confidently navigate trails while fostering a deep connection with nature. This program is designed for Brownies to earn their...
Join Kartchner Caverns State Park to celebrate Pollinator Week, June 16-22! Each day, we'll have fun activities you can participate in that help you learn more, appreciate, and support our pollinators. Crafts and programs are free, but standard park entrance fees apply. June 16: Hummingbirds. Craft: make a hummingbird feeder. une 17: Butterflies. Craft: make a butterfly...
Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. Hikes are included with park entrance fees...
Come explore the Children’s Garden every Tuesday and Thursday morning! Water the plants, discover vibrant flowers, observe buzzing insects, and check out the veggies and herbs—there’s always something new to see and learn!
Trip difficulty: Easy; Walking distance: 1.5 miles, Trip Duration: 3 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...
Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area...
Join Kartchner Caverns State Park to celebrate Pollinator Week, June 16-22! Each day, we'll have fun activities you can participate in that help you learn more, appreciate, and support our...
Join Ranger Derik on an easy/moderate hike to learn about the many cacti species that call the park home. The hike will be led by Ranger Derik and cover 3 miles round trip as an out and back on the Overton Trail. During the hike there will be frequent stops to take in views and...
Enjoy an early morning walk to watch for birds, lizards, snakes, and small animals with Ranger Olivia. Let’s see what sorts of wildlife we can spot. Birds should be active at this time and there’s not a bad chance for lizards, and small animals too. This hike will be an easy 1-1.5-mile hike on our...
Meet at the Native Seed Garden (Near Maintenance Compound). It is time to harvest seeds! Join us for a celebration of native seeds!! As we strive to improve native biodiversity within the parks. Registering is required via sign-up.com. Events start at 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Participants will learn to identify native plants in their...
Celebrate the Summer Solstice by enjoying a sunrise hike in cool morning temperatures! Watch the sun crest over the Catalina Mountains on the Birding Trail (one-mile). Caution: The Birding Trail has stairs. Follow signs for "trailhead" and meet at the Trailhead picnic area near the restrooms.
The coolest place in Midtown just got cooler! On Fridays through September 26, admission to the Gardens is just $5 (free to Members, as always). Enjoy a summer stroll under the canopy of 100-year-old shade trees, the lush green tones of over 20 specialty garden spaces, and a delicious $5 Friday Root Beer Float at...
Join Kartchner Caverns State Park to celebrate Pollinator Week, June 16-22! Each day, we'll have fun activities you can participate in that help you learn more, appreciate, and support our pollinators. Crafts and programs are free, but standard park entrance fees apply. June 16: Hummingbirds. Craft: make a hummingbird feeder. une 17: Butterflies. Craft: make a butterfly...
Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area...
Join Ranger Shaun for an early Summer/late Spring walk-and-talk to discuss the changing seasons and what that means for the desert. We’ll walk the roughly 2-mile Moonlight-Stargazer-San Tan loop often used for Ranger hikes and talk about the changing temperatures, differing photo periods (day lengths), and season weather patterns and how those things alter life...
Every third Saturday of the month At Mission Garden’s Placita (near the kitchen) This event is FREE. Mission Garden continues this tradition of talks and demonstrations about O'odham Agriculture. We talk about traditions associated with Native American crops and how crops brought by Europeans were integrated into O'odham agriculture.
Join us for a guided hike every Sunday morning! We will meet at the first lagoon parking lot at (unless otherwise noted at the entrance station). Hikes will vary each week to explore the different areas of the park. Hikes will be easy to moderate and last approximately an hour- two hours long. Please bring...
Join us to walk around Liberty Wildlife during our public open hours and see us fulfilling our mission! In the months of May, June, July and September, we are open from 9am until 11am. Our admission is simply donation based - whatever you feel you can give. There are no set programs, but volunteers are...
Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. Hikes are included with park entrance fees...
June 23, 24, 25, 26, 2025 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Participants will engage in four days of hands-on, research-based learning activities that challenge common student misconceptions about life science. Explore foundational concepts such as living vs. non-living things, animal and plant life cycles, and investigate habitats and ecosystems. *Focused on grades K-2 Deadline to...
Crazy with Curiosity: Scientists in Nature! Wondering what to do for summer break? Come to the Highlands Center for Nature Camp! Campers will spend their time outdoors, learning about different fields of science. Campers will go from being ornithologists to chemists, to entomologists to anything in between. We will explore, play games, take part in...
Dive into the deep blue for an epic adventure! Join us for a thrilling week of ocean-themed games and water-filled fun. Sharpen your outdoors skills and experience the jaw-some fun from start to finish. This camp is about to be fin-tastic! Attention Girl Scouts Ages 6 - 17 Mon Jun 23, 8:00 AM MST -...
Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. Hikes are included with park entrance fees...
Come explore the Children’s Garden every Tuesday and Thursday morning! Water the plants, discover vibrant flowers, observe buzzing insects, and check out the veggies and herbs—there’s always something new to see and learn!
Join us at Willow Bend and get up close with live animal ambassadors from the Arizona Game and Fish Department! This engaging program explores native wildlife, their adaptations, and how we can help protect their habitats. Presentation geared toward ages 8 and up; younger children are welcome. Admission: $10 per participant $35 per family (2...
Explore the nocturnal world of bats, beginning with an introduction to their diversity, biology, and conservation. The group will then set off on a casual stroll with a bat detector to determine which species are flying over our heads. DIRECTIONS: Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Road 85749 From Tucson - Take Tanque Verde Road...
Trip difficulty: Easy; Walking distance: 1.5 miles, Trip Duration: 3 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...
Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area...
Temperatures go up fast around here. Come take a toasty morning hike with Ranger Shaun before it gets unbearable. Come along with Ranger Shaun for a taste of Arizona Summer Daylight hiking and why we don’t do it often. We’re 5 days officially into Summer and temps are already going through the roof by daybreak....
Join Ranger Derik on a difficult hike to Wind Cave on Pass Mountain to see sweeping views of the Phoenix Valley. Ranger Derik will lead the 3-mile hike to wind cave with 800ft of elevation gain. No pets, please. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring plenty of water. Trekking poles can be helpful for those will...
Join Ranger Nikki on an easy hike to learn about a variety of desert plant and animal life. Join Ranger Nikki on a 2-mile hike to learn about our fascinating Sonoran Desert and how plants and animals survive, particularly during the summer. We will also visit Petroglyph Plaza on the Waterfall Trail and talk about...
Ranger Jacque gives a beginner’s glimpse into the birding world with an indoor presentation on birding, followed by a review of Sonoran Desert birds. From hobbyists to extreme birdathon competitors, birding is a popular past time all over the world thanks to its relative ease and affordability. Yet for those newly interested, it can seem...
Learn about birds of the Sonoran Desert on this easy guided hike with Ranger Eric! Join Ranger Eric to look for and learn about resident and migratory birds of the Sonoran Desert on this easy walk. We will meet at the Nature Center and check out the nearby feeders and vegetation, before going over to...
Explore the mile-long, wave-like lava tube cave in Flagstaff, Arizona. Formed roughly 700,000 years ago by molten rock, the cave presents a chance to unearth nature's creativity and learn firsthand how volcanic heat causes rock to partially liquefy and drip. Transportation included; bring a sack lunch or enjoy an independent lunch in Flagstaff. Rating: moderate....
The coolest place in Midtown just got cooler! On Fridays through September 26, admission to the Gardens is just $5 (free to Members, as always). Enjoy a summer stroll under the canopy of 100-year-old shade trees, the lush green tones of over 20 specialty garden spaces, and a delicious $5 Friday Root Beer Float at...
$50/member, $100/non-member Trip Difficulty: Moderate to Hard. We will walk on some trails that may have elevation gain and some rocky/rooted footing. All day trip can be tiresome, so be prepared. Our pace is slow though and the majority of the time will not be strenuous. This will be a full day field trip, we’ll...
Learn about reptiles and amphibians on this guided hike with Ranger Eric. Join Ranger Eric to go herping (looking for reptiles and amphibians) on this a short hike of part of Blevins and Amigos Wash Trails. We will discuss identification and behavior of Sonoran Desert herpetofauna as we go and discuss safety around venomous wildlife....
Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area...
Join Ranger Derik on a moderately difficult fast paced hike to watch the sunset, the moonrise, and the desert aglow. Ranger Derik leads this hike to watch the sun set...
$35/Members, $50/Nonmembers Trip difficulty: Moderate. 2-2.5 miles over mostly level, but occasionally uneven, terrain. Chance of moist, muddy brief portions near wetland areas. A portion of the trail is a...
Learn about the resident and migrant birds of desert riparian areas on this guided walk with Ranger Eric. Join Ranger Eric for a guided bird walk to look and listen...
Crazy with Curiosity: Scientists in Nature! Wondering what to do for summer break? Come to the Highlands Center for Nature Camp! Campers will spend their time outdoors, learning about different...
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,...
(AM - JUNIORS) Colorful Chemistry Lab Art and science unite in Colorful Chemistry Camp! Using a series of fun, hands-on experiments, campers will explore the scientific and chemical basis of the world around them. The youngsters will explore colors, fluids, nature, and chemical reactions as they are taught how to ask questions and find answers...
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...
$3 Ticket Tuesdays are back! Throughout June and July, every Tuesday the Zoo is offering $3 admission for all guests as a way of thanking our community for 60 wild years. Everyone — adults, seniors, and children (ages 2-14) get into the Zoo for $3 per person. Children under age 2 always get in for free....
Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include...
Learn about the resident and migrant birds of desert riparian areas on this guided walk with Ranger Eric. Join Ranger Eric for a guided bird walk to look and listen...
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,...
Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include...
Join Ranger Nikki for an early morning hike to watch the desert start the day. Join Ranger Nikki on a 4.5-mile easy to moderate hike at sunrise to enjoy the...
This casual meet-up is perfect for those who enjoy going outside, sketching, observing, and meeting fellow nature enthusiasts. Join the Southern Arizona Nature Journal Club to learn about Nature Journaling, and immerse...
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...
Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. Hikes are included with park entrance fees...
Get out early and beat the summer heat! Join a ranger for a short stroll and chat in our cactus garden. Come learn about a variety of topics including the iconic saguaro cactus and other plants of the Sonoran Desert! Meets in front of the Rincon Mountain Visitor Center. Accessible program.
This Summer, join a ranger at 9 am for a 45 to 60 minute fossil discovery walk. This is a fun, family-friendly activity. The program is a favorite of Junior...
Get outside this summer with our staff on a family friendly educational hike! On this sunrise hike, learn about our unique collection plants, Sonoran Desert ecology, and meet our resident Sonoran Desert Tortoises. Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes, sun protective clothing, and bring plenty of water. Sign up for this free hike at the...
Did you know Arizona actually has five seasons? The thunderstorms of Tucson’s monsoon have the power to transform the Sonoran Desert during Arizona’s fifth season: the wet summer! Monsoon Magic...
Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area...
Join Ranger Jacque for a scenic hike, where we'll identify various cacti and their significance in the desert. Experience the beauty of the desert on this cactus walk! This 1.5-mile...
Join us for a stroll along the Santa Cruz River to discover the seasonal rhythm of the desert. 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...
Enjoy an early morning walk to watch for birds, lizards, snakes, and small animals with Ranger Olivia. Let’s see what sorts of wildlife we can spot. Birds should be active at this time and there’s not a bad chance for lizards, and small animals too. This hike will be along Escondido trail and will...