Trip difficulty: Easy Walking Distance: 1.75-2.2 miles Trip Duration: 2.0-2.5 hours Ground Condition: Paved and dirt pathway with some slopes, uneven footing and loose gravel. Ample parking and restroom facilities available. Limited benches and shade. Welcome to Sunday in the Parks! The last Sunday of the month we venture to one of Tucson’s many urban...
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...
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 eBird and citizen science,...
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 to two hours long. Please...
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...
Have you ever wondered how mining operations determined just where to mine for precious metals? Bring the kids and dig in to a fun, hands on lesson in core sampling....
Come meet Ranger Eric inside the Visitor Center to learn all about the iconic palms of the Preserve. Learn about the Preserve’s historic stand of California fan palms, how these tropical trees can grow in the desert Southwest, and their importance to both wildlife and native cultures. Did you know that these palms were sourced...
For those who can’t get enough of our African penguins, we invite you to join us for an exclusive up close and personal Penguin Encounter. Go behind the scenes with our Animal Care & Education team to learn specifics about penguin behavior, diet, and reproduction, as well as how we can do our part to...
Enjoy the air-conditioned Nature Center while exploring the amazing world of desert cacti with Ranger Derik. A discovery station with real samples of cacti, as well as pictures of fruits and flowers, will be on display for several hours in the Nature Center. Ranger Derik will be present to answer any of your Sonoran Desert...
Go behind the scenes with our Animal Care & Education team an OdySea Aquarium Team Member to learn specifics about sloth behavior, diet, and reproduction, as well as how we can do our part to help this incredible species and our rainforests. Tour Fee: $69.95 | General Admission Is Required. | Minimum Age 8 Two...
Put on your swimsuit, OdySea Aquarium wetsuit and SeaTREK helmet and get ready to dive in! Our certified guides will take you deep into one of our largest underwater environments in this truly immersive experience where you’ll be surrounded by thousands of colorful and curious marine life from the Indo-Pacific region of the world. WHAT YOU...
Our little corner of Southeastern Arizona is a treasure trove of archaeological sites, many of them dating back thousands of years. Some have been excavated and then protected, such as...
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...
Come watch our certified professional raptor trainers John & Balinda train the owls Funky and Simon, Speedy the hawk, Astro the Aplomado Falcon, and Azul the American Crow. Located in the Rehab structure behind the Nature Center – Use the driveway on the south side of the parking lot. The birds appear one at a...
It’s International Bats Weekend! Join Ranger Kevin and learn about these mystifying and often misunderstood mammals of the Sonoran Desert. Help Ranger Kevin celebrate International Bats Weekend at the North Trailhead from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm. Bring your curiosity and your questions. We’ll bust some misbegotten myths about these creatures as well as learn...
Join Ranger Kevin as we seek out the nocturnal animals native to the Sonoran Desert. Come join Ranger Kevin as we hike roughly 3 miles on the North Trail. Trail...