We will walk a route that navigates habitats not normally visited at Columbus Park along with touching the traditional spots. This is not an easy ¾ mile walk around Silverbell Lake, but a 1.75-mile trek over some uneven terrain. There are bathrooms, benches, shade, and water but we will only occasionally be near them. Meet at the flagpoles...
Come with us as we explore the streamside habitat of New River. This preserve is home to a lush riparian habitat that serves as home for many bird species. This hike is approximately 1 mile in length, with no elevation gain. However, there will likely be stream crossings and uneven terrain. We recommend that you...
This holiday, step into the enchanting ‘Glistening Gardens’ at Butterfly Wonderland. This seasonal escape transports guests to the rainforest as they leisurely stroll with family and friends through an amazing illuminated holiday display inside the Conservatory. Lights line the garden paths in this cozy, lush indoor setting. Fluttering butterflies take center stage, surrounded by sparkling...
Help count birds at McDowell Mountain Regional Park or around the Salt and Verde River confluence for the Dec. 16 Salt-Verde Christmas Bird Count! Would you like to go birding with others and help count birds for citizen science for a day in the Fort McDowell/Fountain Hills area? Then sign up for the Dec. 16 Salt-Verde Christmas...
Join us for a guided walk through the Cactus Garden where you’ll explore the fascinating natural history of the Sonoran Desert!
Thyme to see what’s blooming. Feel the soil and test out your green thumb while learning about the benefits of gardening. Plant a seed; you never know what will grow. Activity location: Senior Center Garden
From fur to feathers, and scales to exoskeletons, this program helps learners with special needs recognize differences and similarities through visual, tactile, olfactory, and auditory experiences. Learn about five animal groups (invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals) and the amazing characteristics that make each group of animals unique. Programs are tailored to fit the needs...
Join Ranger Olivia to learn about some of the festive plants that grow in the Sonoran Desert, and how our critters survive the cold. Get in the Holiday spirit by learning about plants like Desert Mistletoe, Christmas Cactus, and more in this casual family friendly program. We will also discuss how our animals can survive...
Join a ranger for a hike in the heart of the cactus forest that travels 2 - 4 miles to learn about the wonders of the Sonoran Desert. Water and hiking shoes recommended!
Free with general admission. 10am and 11am tours Discover how plants have adapted to the desert environment with a volunteer docent-led tour. See the Garden’s living collection with plants from around the world and the Sonoran Desert and their fascinating survival strategies in this arid climate. Walk away with a new appreciation for the beauty...
Take a short walk through our Cactus Garden and discover some of the amazing plants and animals; and how they adapt to the harsh Sonoran Desert. Wheelchair accessible Free with Park Fee
Join a ranger for a 15 minute talk at the Coronado National Memorial Visitor Center and learn about a variety of park topics including the Coronado Expedition, wildlife, and more!...
Enhance your afternoon with quick insights into the geologic story of Grand Canyon at our "Geo Glimpse" ranger program - presented daily at 11 am. Meet in front of Yavapai Geology Museum. Learn how this immense canyon formed and the science behind the landscape. The program is 30 minutes long and is accessible. Grand Canyon is one-mile deep,...
The saguaro celebrates events and faces challenges throughout its life. A biologist explains how it provides shelter and substance for wildlife; when it flowers; its growth patterns; and how it fights for survival against drought, lightning, frost, and other dangers. Wheelchair accessible. Free with Park Fee
Enjoy a short mid-day hike with Ranger Olivia to see what wildlife we can spot. Let’s see what sorts of wildlife we can spot. Animals might be out and about during this time, but if not, there is still plenty things to see! We will pass many native plants to the desert along with some...
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...
Discover a deeper connection to the Grand Canyon. Join a ranger to dive into the canyon's diverse ecosystems, rich cultural heritage, or ever-changing landscape. Topics change daily. Come curious, leave inspired! Program may include a short walk to Mather Point or along the Canyon Rim Trail.
Join a ranger for a 20-30 minute stroll through the cactus garden to learn about the Saguaro cactus and other plants of the Sonoran Desert. Accessible program.
Join a park ranger at the Red Hills Visitor Center for a theater presentation about Saguaro National Park’s unique cultural, historical and natural resources. Presentations vary daily depending on the Ranger hosting, but a few popular ones go over: wildlife in the park, plants in the park (including saguaros), local indigenous culture, park history and even...
Join Liberty Wildlife at the Verde Canyon Railroad Depot and meet their eagle/raptor ambassadors!
Climb a half-mile up the Tanque Verde Ridge to enjoy a desert sunset with a ranger guide. Expect rocky terrain and beautiful views. Free with Park Fee
Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland at The Valley’s favorite holiday tradition, ZooLights! Get in the holiday spirit as millions of twinkling lights transform the Zoo into a dazzling spectacle,...
Greg Peterson, Don Titmus and Janis Norton will co-host this class designed to help explain some of the new terms and concepts that are the foundation of permaculture. What is ‘Permaculture’ and where this idea came from. Why permaculture can make a difference in our daily lives. How permaculture affects not just our outdoor spaces,...