January and February

In-person Nature Programs

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We have a lot of new programs, many of which are free. Please help us get the word out! Feel free to share this email with friends and family.

Know a nature lover who may need a more slow-paced, less rugged experience? Our Birding for EveryBODY, Nature for EveryBODY, and Desert Haven Nature Walk just might fit the bill!

Nature in Our Neighborhoods Walk 

Start 2023 on the right foot and join us for some fresh air and “green exercise” along The Loop. We’ll enjoy the mental, physical, and social benefits of being outdoors as we explore nature in our neighborhoods and watch for birds, rabbits, and other critters active during the cooler months. The length of the walk will depend on the group, but is expected to be about two miles on the smooth, mostly-level path that runs along the Julian Greenway. 

Date: Sundays, January 1, 15, and 29

Time: 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Where: Meet at Augie Acuña Los Niños Park (5432 South Bryant Ave)

Cost: Free – Bring a friend!

Birding El Rio Preserve

El Rio Preserve along the Santa Cruz River provides habitat for a wide variety of birds. We can expect to see raptors, wintering sparrows, finches, warblers, and waterfowl. Please remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water; wearing a hat and sunscreen are also recommended.  Designed for ages 12 and up.



Dates: Tuesdays, January 3 and February 7

Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Where: El Rio Preserve, 10191 N. Coachline Blvd. Tucson 85743

Cost: $5.00 (Resident) | $6.50 (Non-Resident) | Free with Pima County Outdoor Activity Membership*

Registration: Online registration required at www.maranaaz.gov/recreation

*Members: Please visit NRPR Registration site for Members’ COUPON CODE before registering for this program through Marana Parks and Recreation.

Baby-and-Me Nature Trek

Feliz Paseos Park

This outdoor adventure is specifically designed for the little ones! Bring the babies and the toddlers and prepare to let them lead the way as we explore the wonders of nature. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Feel free to bring carriers or strollers, but we will be moving at the pace of the children on the move. 

When: Every Tuesday in January and February

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Where: Feliz Paseos Park, 1600 North Camino de Oeste 85745

Cost:  Free. Online registration required.

Birding Agua Caliente Park

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. Designed for ages 12 and up.

As with all nature-related activities, our voices can have a large impact on what we see, so side conversations are discouraged. For the safety and comfort of all participants, no pets are allowed.



Dates: Wednesdays, January 4 and 18, February 1 and 15

Time: 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Where: Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Road 85749

Cost: $5 activity fee. Online registration required.

Maeveen Behan Nature Trek  

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. Please remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water; wearing a hat and sunscreen recommended. Designed for ages 12 and up. 

Date: Thursday, January 5

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Where: Maeveen Behan Desert Sanctuary, 9101 N Thornydale Rd, Tucson, AZ 85742

Cost: $5 activity fee. Online registration required.

Baby-and-Me Nature Trek

Desert Haven Park

This outdoor adventure is specifically designed for the little ones! Bring the babies and the toddlers and prepare to let them lead the way as we explore the wonders of nature. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Feel free to bring carriers or strollers, but we will be moving at the pace of the children on the move. 

When: Every Friday in January and February

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Where: Desert Haven Natural Resource Park, 1850 E 36th St, Tucson, AZ 85713 (Entrance is off of Campbell Avenue)

Cost:  Free. Online registration required.

Full Moon Wander

Join a Pima County naturalist to send off the sun and welcome the full moon. Nature reveals another side in the night hours; there is always something to discover! Dress for the weather, wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring water and a flashlight. Designed for ages 12 and up.

Dates:

Friday, January 6, 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Sunday, February 5, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. 

Where: Feliz Paseos Park, 1600 North Camino de Oeste 85745

Cost: $5 activity fee. Online registration required.

Tour of Historic Canoa Ranch 

Join a walking tour of the Canoa Ranch headquarters. Visit the historic buildings and corrals and enjoy the special exhibits of the people of Canoa. Designed for ages 12 and up.

Dates: Every Saturday in January and February (except January 14)

Time: 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. AND 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 

Where: Historic Canoa Ranch, 5375 S. I-19 Frontage Rd, Green Valley 85622

Cost: $5 activity fee. Online registration required.

Birding Tucson Mountain Park: Ironwood

The ironwood-saguaro habitat of Tucson Mountain Park is not only scenic, it is a great birding spot. On this walk we'll be looking for Greater Roadrunner, Gilded Flicker, Rufous-winged Sparrow, and many other birds. Designed for ages 12 and up.

Date: Tuesday, January 10

Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Where: Tucson Mountain Park, Ironwood Picnic Area, 1500 S. Kinney Road at Hal Gras Road 85735. Meet at the first ramada on the right after turning onto Hal Gras Road

Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.

Birding Canoa Ranch

Visit Historic Canoa Ranch, a birding hotspot in Pima County, to see what fall migration has produced. We hope to see waterfowl, shorebirds, raptors, and a lot more. Designed for ages 12 and up.

Dates: Thursdays, January 12, January 26, and February 9

Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Where: Historic Canoa Ranch, 5375 S. I-19 Frontage Road, Green Valley 85622

Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required

Gardens of Canoa Ranch 

Enjoy a guided tour of the gardens of Historic Canoa Ranch with Raydine Taber from the Green Valley Gardeners. Designed for ages 12 and up.

Dates: Fridays, January 13 and February 3

Time: 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Where: Historic Canoa Ranch, 5375 S. I-19 Frontage Rd, Green Valley 85622

Cost: $5 activity fee. Online registration required.

Morning in the Park|Mañana en el Parque

Enjoy a family-friendly morning at Desert Haven Park, every 2^nd Saturday of the month. Drop in any time between 10-Noon am for kid’s nature activities, nature walks, other programming and special guests. Learn about nature in your neighborhood and this special ecosystem in the city. All ages and abilities encouraged. Se habla español.

Disfrute de una mañana familiar en Desert Haven Park, cada segundo sábado del mes. Visítenos en cualquier momento entre las 10 a.m. y las 12 p. m. para actividades para niños, paseos por la naturaleza, otros programas e invitados especiales. Aprenda sobre la naturaleza en su barrio y este ecosistema especial en la ciudad. Todas las edades y habilidades son bienvenidas.

Dates: Saturdays, January 14 and February 11

Time: 10:00 a.m.- 12:00 pm

Where: Desert Haven Natural Resource Park, 1850 E 36th St, Tucson, AZ 85713 (Entrance is off of Campbell Avenue)

Cost: Free. No registration required.

Hike to Bowen Stone House Ruins

Constructed in the 1930s in a secluded part of what is now Tucson Mountain Park, the Bowen Stone House was the centerpiece of a 2,000-acre homestead established by Sherry and Ruby Bowen. This moderate, mostly-level, 3-mile hike along a portion of the Yetman Trail will offer both desert vistas and a glimpse into the past at the rustic life of an intriguing local family.

Dates: Saturday, January 14, 2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Where: Yetman Trail via Camino de Oeste Trailhead, 400 N. Camino de Oeste 85745

Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required

Paint Out in the Park

Join the Sonoran Plein Air Painters for a plein air art demonstration by Virginia Belser to learn some soft-pastel techniques for capturing landscape scenes in the open air. “Meet the Artists” reception and Paint Out in the Parks exhibition opening to follow the demonstration. All ages welcome. 

Date: Saturday, January 14

Time: Paint Out 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m., Demonstration 10:00 a.m.– 11:00 a.m., Reception 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Where: Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Road, 85749

Cost: Free. 

Stargazing Tucson Mountain Park

Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association volunteers provide an introduction to the night sky and set up telescopes for celestial viewing. Feel free to bring your lawn chair. Free, family-friendly fun. Registration required. Weather permitting. 

Date: Saturday, January 14

Times: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Where: Tucson Mountain Park, Ironwood Picnic Area, 1500 S. Kinney Road at Hal Gras Road 85735

Cost: Free. Online registration required. 

Register at: http://pima-county-nrpr.eventbrite.com

Historical Tour of Agua Caliente Park 

Enjoy a guided walk around the lush grounds and historic buildings of Agua Caliente Park to gain insights into the rich farming and ranching history of the site. Designed for ages 12 and up.

Date: Sundays, January 15 and February 5

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Where: Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Road 85749

Cost: $5 activity fee. Online registration required.

Birding For EveryBODY: Agua Caliente Park

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. Explore birding hotspot Agua Caliente Park where we hope to see waterfowl, woodpeckers, sparrows, finches and more. Each registered participant is welcome to bring a support person.This program is offered in partnership with the Tucson Audubon Society.  

Dates:

Thursday, January 19, 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Friday, February 17, 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Where: Pima County Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Road 85749

Cost: Free. Online registration opens on the second Saturday of the previous month; visit https://tucsonaudubon.org/go-birding/birding-field-trips/ 

El Rio Preserve

Nature Trek

Join a Pima County Naturalist for a guided nature trek through the desert and riparian habitats of El Rio Preserve. Wander along level, well-maintained trials as we explore the unique plants and animals of the Sonoran Desert. Please remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water; wearing a hat and sunscreen are also recommended. Designed for ages 12 and up. 

Dates: Thursdays, January 19 and February 16

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Where: El Rio Preserve, 10191 N. Coachline Blvd. Tucson 85743

Cost: $5.00 (Resident) | $6.50 (Non-Resident) | Free with Pima County Outdoor Activity Membership*

Registration: 

Online registration required at www.maranaaz.gov/recreation

*Members: Please visit NRPR Registration site for Members’ COUPON CODE before registering for this program through Marana Parks and Recreation.

Anza Tour at Historic Canoa Ranch

Learn about Colonel Juan Bautista de Anza and the group of Spanish colonial settlers who, in 1775, made their first stop at Canoa Ranch as they began an epic 1200-mile journey from Sonora, New Spain to colonize the port of what is now San Francisco. A 5-mile segment of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail extends through Historic Canoa Ranch. Designed for ages 12 and up. 

Dates: Fridays, January 20 and 27 AND February 10 and 17

Time: 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Where: Historic Canoa Ranch, 5375 S. I-19 Frontage Rd, Green Valley 85622

Cost: $5 activity fee. Online registration required.

Stargazing Agua Caliente Park

Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association volunteers provide an introduction to the night sky and set up telescopes for celestial viewing. Feel free to bring your lawn chair. Free, family-friendly fun.

Registration required. Weather permitting. 

Date: Saturday, January 21

Times: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Where: Pima County Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Road 85749

Cost: Free. Online registration required. 

Register at: http://pima-county-nrpr.eventbrite.com

Birding For EveryBODY: Canoa Ranch

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 emerging birding hotspot of Historic Canoa Ranch where we hope to see waterfowl, raptors, sparrows, and a lot more. Each registered participant is welcome to bring a support person. Designed for ages 12 and up. This program is offered in partnership with the Tucson Audubon Society.  

Date: Saturday, January 28

Time: 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Where: Historic Canoa Ranch, 5375 S. I-19 Frontage Rd, Green Valley 85622

Cost: Free. Online registration opens on the second Saturday of the previous month; visit https://tucsonaudubon.org/go-birding/birding-field-trips/ 

Santa Cruz River Ramble

Take a guided stroll along the Chuck Huckelberry Loop to see a desert river brought back to life. Learn about the ecology and history of the Santa Cruz – its ups and downs – and how this once-dry portion flows again thanks to recycled water. Along the way, we’ll keep our eyes out for water-loving plants and animals that have returned. Designed for ages 12 and up.

Dates: Sundays, January 29 and February 26

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Where: Meet at Santa Cruz River Park next to Desert Survivors Native Plant Nursery (1020 W. Starr Pass Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85713)

Cost: $5 activity fee. Online registration required.

Desert Haven Nature Walk 

Join a naturalist-guided walk along the gentle, mostly-paved trails of Desert Haven Park. The park is located in the 18th Street watershed and includes a lush riparian area. 

Date: Tuesday, January 31

Time: 10:00 a.m.- 11:30 a.m.

Where: Desert Haven Natural Resource Park, 1850 E 36th St, Tucson, AZ 85713

Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required

Big Wash Nature Trek 

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. Trekking poles encouraged and sure-footedness is a must. Designed for ages 12 and up.

Date: Thursday, February 2

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Where: Big Wash Trailhead, N. Rancho Vistoso Blvd, west of N. Oracle Road (directions will be sent with registration)

Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.

Signs of the Season Phenology Walk

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 contribute to our understanding of the natural world.

Dates: Every Sunday in February

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Where: Group meets in front of Pima County Wheeler Taft Abbett Sr. Branch Library, 7800 N. Schisler Drive 85743

Cost: Free. Online registration required

Birding For EveryBODY:

Feliz Paseos

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. Explore the desert oasis of Feliz Paseos Park to see hummingbirds, sparrows, woodpeckers, and more. Designed for ages 12 and up. 

This program is offered in partnership with Tucson Audubon Society. 

Date: Sunday, February 5

Time: 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Where: Feliz Paseos Park, 1600 North Camino de Oeste Tucson 85745

Cost: Free. Online registration opens Saturday, January 14; visit https://tucsonaudubon.org/go-birding/birding-field-trips/

Birding Cienega Creek

From ocotillo and creosote desert flats to willow-cottonwood riparian woodland, Cienega Creek offers a variety of habitats that attract a great diversity of birds. Sections of the trail are steep and rocky. 

Date: Wednesday, February 8

Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Where: Gabe Zimmerman Davidson Canyon Trailhead at Cienega Creek Natural Preserve, 16000 E. Marsh Station Road 85641

Cost: $5 activity fee. Online registration required.

Nature for EveryBODY

Enjoy a leisurely outdoor experience designed for nature lovers with accessibility challenges; wheelchairs, walkers, and other assistive equipment are welcome. The pace is slow, distance short, and terrain even. Each registered participant is welcome to bring a support person.

Date: Wednesday, February 8

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Where: Desert Haven Natural Resource Park, 1850 E 36th St, Tucson, AZ 85713

Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required

Birding Tucson Mountain Park: Juan Santa Cruz 

The ironwood-saguaro habitat of Tucson Mountain Park offers beautiful scenery and great birds On this walk we'll be looking for Gilded Flicker, Rufous-winged Sparrow, and many other desert birds. We may also see some early spring migrants.  

Date: Thursday, February 16

Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Where: Tucson Mountain Park, Juan Santa Cruz Picnic Area, 6000 S. Kinney Road 85743

Cost: $5 activity fee. Online registration required

Fledgling Birders: Birding for all Ages and Abilities

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 connecting with others. Join naturalist Jeff Babson for a casual birding experience to familiarize yourself with birding basics. Loaner binoculars available. All ages encouraged.

Date: Saturday, February 18

Time: 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Where: Feliz Paseos Park, 1600 North Camino de Oeste 85745

Cost: Free. Online registration required.

Walk the Path of the Ancestors 

Explore a shaded 1½ - 2 mile section of trail along a riparian corridor in Colossal Cave Mountain Park and learn about the native people who inhabited this area. There are a few steep and rocky sections along the trail. Trekking poles are encouraged and sure-footedness is a must. 

Date: Tuesday, February 21

Time: 10:00 a.m. – Noon

Where: Colossal Cave Mountain Park, 16721 E. Old Spanish Trail 85641

Cost: $10 fee. Online registration required.

Nature Hike: Enchanted Hills  

Looking for something to do during rodeo break? Join us to get some fresh air and explore the Wild West Loop at Enchanted Hills Trails Park. During this 1½ mile hike among the saguaros, we’ll climb a small peak and take in views of the city, the Enchanted Hills Wash, and the Tucson Mountains. All ages encouraged; trail is not stroller-accessible, and younger kids may need to be assisted or carried

Date: Thursday, February 23

Time: 9:00 to 11:30 am

Where: Enchanted Hills Trail Park, 3280 W 36th St, Tucson, AZ 85713

Cost: $5 fee. Children free with paid adult. Online registration required

Family Nature Scavenger Hunt

Get the family out of the house and onto the trail! Enjoy a morning of learning about the desert and looking for clues in this nature adventure game. All ages are encouraged.

Trails are a mix of paved and packed soil, but mostly stroller friendly.  

Date: Thursday, February 23

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 

Where: Feliz Paseos Park, 1600 North Camino de Oeste 85745

Cost: Free. Online registration required

Stargazing Historic Canoa Ranch

Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association volunteers provide an introduction to the night sky and set up telescopes for celestial viewing. Feel free to bring your lawn chair.

All ages encouraged. Free. Registration required. Weather permitting. 

Date: Friday, February 24

Time: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. 

Where: Historic Canoa Ranch, 5375 S. I-19 Frontage Road, Green Valley 85622

Cost: Free. Online registration required

Registration: http://pima-county-nrpr.eventbrite.com 

Beginning Desert Hike: Creosote Loop Trail 

New to hiking in the desert? Enjoy rolling vistas of saguaros, palo verdes, and creosote in this easy-to-access southeast corner of Tucson Mountain Park. Leaving from the new Robles Pass Trailhead, we’ll take a roughly 2½ -mile, beginner-level guided nature hike exploring the Creosote Loop and Rocky 13 Trails. You do not need fancy gear – just sturdy closed-toe shoes, water, and comfortable clothing. All ages encouraged; trail is not stroller-accessible, and younger kids may need to be assisted or carried.

Date: Saturday, February 25

Time: 9:00 a.m. – noon

Where: Robles Pass Trailhead, Tucson Mountain Park, 2680 W. Irvington Road 85746

Cost: Free. Online registration is required

Look for more Birding and Nature Walks coming in March!

Pima County Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation

520.724.5375

eeducation@pima.gov

www.pima.gov/nrpr