Mon, Nov 27 - Mini-Big Day (from Top of the World to the Gilbert Water Ranch, with spots in between) This is a fast-paced field trip to a variety of habitats to see as many birds as we can before lunch (about 1:30ish). We’ve usually tallied between 65-75 species, and always have a few nice...
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...
Learn about Grand Canyon's natural world on a 1 hour guided walk on a paved pathway along the canyon rim. Topics vary and may include: animals and plants adapting to changing seasons, man's impact on nature, how nature inspires writers and poets, rare and endangered species, or American Indian use of plants and animals. Program...
Field trip to Mt. Ord Tuesday Nov. 28th 6:00 AM with Anne Leight Mt Ord is one of Maricopa County’s highest elevation hotspots. High chaparral slopes and Ponderosa pine forests host species such as Acorn and Hairy woodpeckers, Woodhouse and Steller’s jays, White-breasted and Pygmy nuthatches, Brown Creeper and Dark-eyed juncos. Hiking at high elevation;...
Trip Moderate: Walk 2 – 3 miles primarily on dirt paths that are uneven in places. Limited to 10 participants. Binoculars will be provided for those who request them. This trip is intended for people new to birding or for birders from other regions who want to learn some of the common birds in the...
Meet in the Saguaro day use area to learn how to distinguish between birds and seek out hawks to hummingbirds all throughout the trail! Be prepared for a 1 mile, slow-paced bird walk on moderate, rocky terrain with mild 150-ft. elevation gain. Program is about 1.5 hours. Please wear close-toed shoes, and don't forget water,...
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: 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...
Explore the wonders of the Sonoran Desert while you hone your skills on the varied terrain of one of Pima County’s beautiful desert trails. Trail running offers a wonderful opportunity to explore and connect with the natural world, while providing a fun and engaging way to get a great work out. Participants should be comfortable...
Both novice and seasoned birders enjoy the variety of birds that visit and live in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains. Our experienced bird guide, Mary Ellen, will help you spot and identify various birds as you walk through the park. Please bring binoculars (and a bird guide if you have one!) This walk lasts several hours....
Join Ranger Eric for a guided hike on the Waterfall Trail to learn about the animals, plants, and ecology of the Sonoran Desert, and to see the granite formation that is occasionally a waterfall following rain. The lower 0.5-mile of the trail is barrier-free up to a petroglyph viewing area, then is on uneven and...
On this hike you will get to see a variety of cactus species and learn about their many adaptations to survive in the harsh Sonoran Desert climate. We will hike the 3.3-mile Tortuga Trail starting from the covered picnic table just past the contact station. The trail is rocky, steep and uneven in many places...
Azatlan is the contemporary archaeological name given to a large Hohokam community that existed north of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Reservation and east of Rio Verde. Join PastFinders experts for a hike through one of the largest archeological sites in central Arizona, which lies right next door to the Preserve along the Verde River. The...
Join Ranger Eric to look for and learn about resident and migratory birds of the Sonoran Desert on this easy to moderate hike. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and check out the nearby trees, before going over to riparian woodland along the Gila River if time allows. Please dress in layers,...
Ready to discover more about what is in the Preserve, beside the excitement of a trail riding? This is the ride for you! Join our PastFinder stewards in exploring the Preserve’s recent ranching history and the ancient way of life of the Native American in a stunning geological setting. This is an intermediate skill and...
Join Ranger Eric for a 5.3-mile hike of the southern half of the San Tan Trail loop and Moonlight Trail. Along the way, we should have some views of the long line of spectacular cliffs of the Malpais Hills in the distance. It is rated as moderate with sometimes rocky or uneven surfaces. Along the...
t’s back! Join Rangers Derik and Kevin for a day of hiking from Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area to Cave Creek Regional Park. Trail is approximately 11 miles in length, and utilizes the Go John, Maricopa, and Spur Cross trails. Trail conditions are rated moderate to difficult, so expect a considerable amount of loose rock,...
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....
The Sierra Vista Environmental Operations Park (EOP), also known as the Sierra Vista Wastewater Wetlands, has been opened to public tours on Sunday mornings, all year round. Group size is limited to 15 people on a first come-first serve basis. Arrive before the starting hour, and sign the waiver right away to secure a place....
Native only to the Sonoran Desert, these giant cacti are a sight to see! Join us to follow the growth of a saguaro from seed to skeleton and view multi-armed, old saguaros. Location: Granite Mountain Trailhead – 31402 N 136th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85262 Skill level: Moderate Distance: ~4 miles Time: ~3 hours Pets are...
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...
oin our local interpretive guides for a hike to the Romero Ruins. With this program, you'll walk through one thousand years of Hohokam history in 90 minutes. Meet at the Romero Ruins ramada on the first and third Monday of each month at 9 a.m., starting November 6 and continuing through March. Expect 77 steep steps to the...
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...
10 a.m., 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Explore the Garden with a docent and learn how plants have adapted to the desert environment. 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...
Did you ever wonder how scientists get those fabulous wildlife pictures? Join us to learn what it takes to do wildlife research in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Citizen scientists will discuss locating wildlife corridors, camera placement, and everything needed, including lots of patience, to produce research data. Location: Fraesfield Trailhead – 13400 E Rio Verde...
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,...
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...
Wed, Dec 6 - thanks to Donna Smith of Sonoran Audubon Society, there’s a great route around Arlington, west of Phoenix, through agricultural fields that is reliable for burrowing owls and diurnal raptors, sparrows and common desert species, plus waterfowl at canals and farm ponds. This is a long morning, starting at 6:30am in Tempe...
Come with us as we explore the streamside habitat of New River. This preserve is home to a lush riparian habitat that contains many tree species unique to the desert including cottonwoods, sycamore, walnuts, and more! We'll search for the many bird species that call this place home. This hike is approximately 1 mile in...
Join Ranger Kevin for a roughly 2-mile hike along the Plant Research Trail and the south bank of the Gila River. We’ll explore the riparian habitat for interesting plants and animals while we discuss the importance of rivers like the Gila to the health and diversity of desert life. The trail is moderately difficult, with...
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, Metate and Tortuga Trails for a total of 5 miles. The trails range from easy flat terrain to rocky and uneven surfaces. Portable restrooms are available...
Winter birding at Cienega Creek means things like sparrows, wrens, and sapsuckers. We will be searching for these and many other birds on this wqlk. Sections of the trail are steep and rocky. Please carry water and wear sturdy hiking shoes. Location: Gabe Zimmerman Davidson Canyon Trailhead at Cienega Creek Preserve, 16000 E. Marsh Station...
Registration fee: $35/member, $50/non-member.* Trip difficulty: Moderate, 2-3 miles on uneven, unpaved terrain, little to no elevation gain, bathrooms and water available. BANWR offers a wide range of habitats to explore in the winter – restored grasslands, wetlands, and the mixed human habitat around the HQ. Our main location to bird will be sometimes wet/sometimes...
Registration fee: $35/member, $50/non-member* Trip difficulty: Moderate. Starting from the parking area on Gen’l Hitchcock Hwy at the entrance to the camping area, our trip will be four miles round-trip on paved and gravel roads, and some dirt trails that can be rocky in places. The trip is at over 7000 feet in elevation with...
Come along for a morning walk around scenic Palm Lake in the brisk morning air. We’ll watch for wildlife, take in the morning sights, chilly air, and early sun as the park gets warmed up for the day. Palm Lake is a barrier free 0.6-mile trail beginning and ending at the Visitor Center. There are...
Meet at the park Nature Center. Explore the birds/bird life at Estrella Park with special guest Joe Ford. With the park's wide range of habitats, you will encounter some of the best birding in the valley! Beginner birders and long-time enthusiasts will enjoy this opportunity to spot and identify many bird species. Bring close-toed shoes,...
Join Ranger Kevin for a challenging, approximately 8-mile hike on the spectacularly scenic Rock Peak Wash, Malpais, and San Tan trails. We’ll keep an eye out for morning critters as we go. This is a great way to knock some serious miles off your 100 miles in 100 days goal while on a Ranger-led hike,...
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...
Learn about the geology of Catalina State Park with experienced geologist, Karen. How were the Santa Catalina Mountains formed? What are some of the different rocks in the park? The walk takes several hours. Meet at Picnic Area. 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...
The Sierra Vista Environmental Operations Park (EOP), also known as the Sierra Vista Wastewater Wetlands, has been opened to public tours on Sunday mornings, all year round. Group size is limited to 15 people on a first come-first serve basis. Arrive before the starting hour, and sign the waiver right away to secure a place....
Sunday, December 10th: Meeting time 8:30 am; duration 2 ½ – 3hrs 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 former railroad bed, with concrete abutments at either end, bordering the creek. Benches are available...
Join one of our park volunteers to explore the history of Catalina State Park and its surroundings from the 1850s to today. Take a “behind the scenes” look at today’s operations and get a “sneak peek” of exciting new upgrades coming to the park. Meet at the Bobcat Amphitheater. There is no cost to attend this...
Trip difficulty: Easy to Moderate. Gradual elevation gain is less than 100 feet. 2 miles on moderately loose wash sand. Restrooms and water available at trailhead. Limited shade and no benches. Trip duration under 2.5 hours. We will start from Oro Valley’s Honey Bee Canyon Park and will walk the wash to the north to...
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...
10 a.m., 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Explore the Garden with a docent and learn how plants have adapted to the desert environment. 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...
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...
Join us as we take in the sights from the summit of Lone Mountain. This property is privately owned and protected by a conservation easement. It is not open to the public, so this is a unique opportunity to visit this beautiful preserve! This 2 mile hike is moderately difficult with several hundred feet of...
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...
Please note that for all Wednesday Sweetwater walks in December, we will be leading two walks of 15 participants each, both starting at 8:00 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...
Explore the wonders of the Sonoran Desert while you hone your skills on the varied terrain of one of Pima County’s beautiful desert trails. Trail running offers a wonderful opportunity to explore and connect with the natural world, while providing a fun and engaging way to get a great work out. Participants should be comfortable...
The San Pedro River is considered one of the largest and most critical avian migratory corridors remaining in the western United States. The San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area (SPRNCA) provides habitat for over 100 species of breeding birds, and provides water, food, and shelter for another 250 species of migratory and wintering birds. Birders,...
Join Reid Park Zoo staff and Tucson Audubon Society staff for a guided bird walk through the zoo. Experience the zoo in a new way as we observe and identify the native birds we see that call the zoo home. Binoculars and field guides are recommended. The tour may last up to 2 hours but...
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...
10 a.m., 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Explore the Garden with a docent and learn how plants have adapted to the desert environment. 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...
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 makes a loop using Blevins, Meridian, County Line, Ruidoso and NoSo Trails for approximately 5.3 miles on easy to moderate...
Explore a 2-to-3-mile section of the Anza Trail during an easy, level interpretive hike. . Learn about the cultural and natural history of the Santa Cruz Valley. Travel on the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail to the area of La Canoa where the expedition to found San Francisco camped after leaving Tubac Presidio...
Registration for this trip is free. Register here beginning on Nov 11, 7 AM. 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 1-2 miles on fairly level terrain and meet...
Trip difficulty: Easy; Walking Distance: 2.5 miles; Trip Duration: 2 hr 45 min; Elevation Gain: none; Ground Condition: groomed trail. Drinking water not available on trail. Restrooms at the Mason Center and one restroom midway on the 2.5 mile loop. Join us for an introduction to birdwatching basics at the Tucson Audubon Mason Center. After...
Come join us for a quiet walk along our easy to moderate scenic trails in search of local and migratory birds. "Bird Weirdness I" 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 8am. No dogs allowed. Free with Park Fee
Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch2757 E Guadalupe Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85234, USA Gilbert Family Birdwalks Monthly on the third Saturday 8am until noon The Gilbert Family Birdwalks are held every third Saturday of the month, October through March at the Gilbert Riparian Preserve, on the southeast corner of Greenfield and Guadalupe Rds in Gilbert....
The Sierra Vista Environmental Operations Park (EOP), also known as the Sierra Vista Wastewater Wetlands, has been opened to public tours on Sunday mornings, all year round. Group size is limited to 15 people on a first come-first serve basis. Arrive before the starting hour, and sign the waiver right away to secure a place....
Experienced bird guides Mike and Lieve lead this bird walk. They will help participants spot and identify various birds that live in and visit the park. Novices, seasoned birders, and every experience level of birder can enjoy this event. Please bring binoculars and a bird guide (guide not mandatory). This walk lasts several hours. Meeting Location: Trailhead Free...
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...
Catalina Regional Park. Participant limit: 12 people. Trip difficulty: Moderate. 1.5 miles on dirt paths and loose wash sand. Trip duration no more than 2.5 hours. No water, no bathroom, limited shade, and one bench. This trip is in the wash 4 miles north of Catalina State Park. It contains several different habitats and is...
Field Trip to Higley Ponds - Monday December 18th 7:30AM with our President Theona &/or Lois Higley Ponds is located on NEC off Higley Road and Ocotillo. The parking area is at the 1/2 mile north of Ocotillo. The ponds are frequented by a wide variety of shorebirds, hawks, hummingbirds, roadrunners, flycatchers, Abert’s Towhee and...
Hike the treasured landscapes of the Sonoran Desert surrounding the East Valley. Each trip you'll discover iconic cacti, canyons peppering the landscapes, and iconic 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,...
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...
Looking for something to do with the kids over winter break? You found it! Join Ranger Kevin for this 1.5-mile hike on the Pipeline Canyon and Yavapai Point trails. Prior to the hike, we’ll talk about the Junior Ranger program, set every young person up with their own activity book, and then we’ll actually do...
10 a.m., 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Explore the Garden with a docent and learn how plants have adapted to the desert environment. 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...
Please note that for all Wednesday Sweetwater walks in December, we will be leading two walks of 15 participants each, both starting at 8:00 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...
Trail running offers a wonderful opportunity to explore and connect with the natural world while providing a fun and engaging way to get a great work out. Enjoy a guided trail run on one of Pima County’s beautiful desert trails. Learn techniques to increase safety and efficiency while maximizing fun on the trail. Along the...
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, as well as wintering waterfowl.
Ranger Nikki will lead you on moderate to difficult fitness hike on the 5.8 mile Go John Trail loop. The trail varies from even surfaces to those that are uneven and rocky. There is a 411-foot elevation difference from the lowest to the highest parts of the trail. Along the way we will talk about...
Come learn about the Sonoran Desert ecosystem and its flora and fauna while hiking a 7.3-mile loop of segments of the Toothaker, Gadsden, Coldwater, and Butterfield trails with Ranger Eric! We will meet at the southwest corner of the Arena area parking at the Rainbow Valley Trailhead. Restrooms and a water bottle filling station are...
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. Please remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water;...
Join Ranger Kevin for a challenging, approximately 7.5-mile hike on the beautiful Pass Mountain trail. We’ll keep an eye out for morning critters as we go. This is a great way to knock some miles off your 100-miles-in-100-days goal while being on a Ranger-led hike, but you’re welcome to join even if you’re not participating...
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 for a total of 4 miles. The terrain ranges from...
The areas all along Cave Creek Wash are abundant in desert flora and fauna and steeped in history. P.A. Seitts Preserve at Go John Canyon is no exception. The preserve not only holds a sensitive riparian habitat, it is also rich in archaeology, mining, and ranching history. Join us as we explore this preserve in...
Join Ranger Nikki on a moderate terrain hike to get a workout and explore our desert for plants and animals. The halfway point of the loop is a great viewing spot for the Marcus Landslide, a granite avalanche that slid from McDowell Mountain approximately 500,000 years ago. The route makes a 9-mile loop using Pemberton...
Join Ranger Eric for the 7.8-mile Malpais loop, one of the most scenic hikes in the Valley, which incorporates the Rock Peak Wash, Malpais, and San Tan Trails and travels below the long line of spectacular cliffs of the Malpais Hills. It is rated as moderate to difficult, but does not have much in the...
Take a global look at the importance of plants and their physical properties and how they were used throughout the centuries to aid in our wellbeing. We will start globally but then move to look at some of the medicinal plants found in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Location: Brown’s Ranch Trailhead – 30301 N. Alma...
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...
The Sierra Vista Environmental Operations Park (EOP), also known as the Sierra Vista Wastewater Wetlands, has been opened to public tours on Sunday mornings, all year round. Group size is limited to 15 people on a first come-first serve basis. Arrive before the starting hour, and sign the waiver right away to secure a place....
Experienced bird guides Mike and Lieve lead this bird walk. They will help participants spot and identify various birds that live in and visit the park. Novices, seasoned birders, and every experience level of birder can enjoy this event. Please bring binoculars and a bird guide (guide not mandatory). This walk lasts several hours. Meeting Location: Trailhead 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 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...
Meet for a bird walk at Gilbert Riparian Preserve, at the west end of the parking lot at 6:00 a.m.; social time at Coffee Rush starts at 7:30 a.m. Coffee Rush, 53 N Val Vista Dr, Gilbert, AZ 85234,
Meet in the Saguaro day use area to learn how to distinguish between birds and seek out hawks to hummingbirds all throughout the trail! Be prepared for a 1 mile, slow-paced bird walk on moderate, rocky terrain with mild 150-ft. elevation gain. Program is about 1.5 hours. Please wear close-toed shoes, and don't forget water,...
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...
Explore the wonders of the Sonoran Desert while you hone your skills on the varied terrain of one of Pima County’s beautiful desert trails. Trail running offers a wonderful opportunity to explore and connect with the natural world, while providing a fun and engaging way to get a great work out. Participants should be comfortable...
Visit Historic Canoa Ranch, a birding hotspot in Pima County. Winter birding at Historic Canoa Ranch means ducks and sparrows. We will also be on the lookout for things like Lawrence’s Goldfinch, Northern Harrier, and more.
The San Pedro River is considered one of the largest and most critical avian migratory corridors remaining in the western United States. The San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area (SPRNCA) provides habitat for over 100 species of breeding birds, and provides water, food, and shelter for another 250 species of migratory and wintering birds. Birders,...
Join Ranger Kevin for a challenging, approximately 8.3-mile hike on the magnificent Mesquite, Ford Canyon, and Willow Canyon trails. We’ll keep an eye out for morning critters as we go. This is a great way to knock some serious miles off your 100-miles-in-100-days goal on a Ranger-led hike, but you’re welcome to join even if...
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...
10 a.m., 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Explore the Garden with a docent and learn how plants have adapted to the desert environment. 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...
Would you like to go birding with others and help count birds for citizen science for a day in the north Valley? Then sign up for the Dec. 29 Carefree Christmas Bird Count! This count includes Cave Creek Regional Park and Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area. Each winter the National Audubon Society sponsors the Christmas Bird Count...
Explore the Sonoran Desert with Ranger Nikki and learn about some of the plants and animals that you can see along the trails at Usery, including a variety of birds, reptiles, mammals, trees, shrubs and cacti. This is a family-friendly slow-paced stroll along the barrier-free Merkle Trail that is a 1-mile loop. The terrain is...
Friday, December 29th: Meeting time 8:30 am; duration 2 ½ – 3hrs 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 former railroad bed, with concrete abutments at either end, bordering the creek. Benches are available...
A wash can be a pretty interesting place, especially when you go with a Ranger! Join Ranger Shaun and learn about what washes are, how they’re formed, and why their important to their ecosystems as we walk parts of Pemberton and Granite trail before dropping into Stoneman’s Wash for the majority our return trip. Along...
Have you ever wanted to learn more about Picacho Peak's trails? Well, wonder no more! Join our wonderful Ranger Kira on a hike at the park. Learn more about the mountain and the surrounding areas, make some new hiking buddies, and enjoy the views. Sign up at our visitor center or give us a call! Spaces are...
The Conservancy has a mission to help sustain the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. This walk provides a geological and ecological overview of what lives in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, and how the flora and fauna survive and thrive. Location: Brown’s Ranch Trailhead – 30301 Alma School Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85262 Skill level: Easy Time: ~2 hours...
The Sierra Vista Environmental Operations Park (EOP), also known as the Sierra Vista Wastewater Wetlands, has been opened to public tours on Sunday mornings, all year round. Group size is limited to 15 people on a first come-first serve basis. Arrive before the starting hour, and sign the waiver right away to secure a place....
Experienced bird guides Mike and Lieve lead this bird walk. They will help participants spot and identify various birds that live in and visit the park. Novices, seasoned birders, and every experience level of birder can enjoy this event. Please bring binoculars and a bird guide (guide not mandatory). This walk lasts several hours. Meeting Location: Trailhead Free...
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...