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Arizona Public Lands Day Hike

April 5 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Join the Arizona Wildlife Federation and the Arizona Trail Association for a special All Afield Hike in celebration of Arizona Public Lands Day! We’ll be exploring the stunning Gabe Zimmerman Trail Loop, a 2.1-mile trek that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

This popular trail is renowned for birding and hiking and will take us through the beautiful Cienega Creek as well as a portion of the iconic Arizona Trail. Expect breathtaking views, fascinating rock formations, and a relatively flat path. Starting at the Gabe Zimmerman Trailhead, the trail is a mix of dirt and gravel, with some rockier sections to navigate. Restrooms and public parking are available at the trailhead.

This hike is the perfect opportunity to connect with Arizona’s beautiful public lands — we hope you can join us!

Highlights:

  • Wildlife Watching: We may spot a variety of mammals like raccoons, coyotes, javelinas, and even coatimundis. Keep an eye out for beautiful birds such as vermilion flycatchers, phainopeplas (aka “goth cardinals”), and green-tailed towhees.
  • Native Plant Identification: Discover a wide diversity of plant life, including fruit-bearing cacti and native wildflowers that add vibrant color to the landscape.
  • Scenic Views & Geology: Enjoy breathtaking vistas and fascinating rock formations as you explore the trail.
  • Accessible & Family-Friendly: The trail is welcoming to all ages and is a beginner-friendly hike. If you have specific questions about accessibility, feel free to reach out to us at the contact info below.

What to Bring:

  • Comfortable walking or hiking shoes — be prepared for slightly muddy areas!
  • Hat
  • Water bottle (always bring more water than you think you need!)
  • The Merlin App and iNaturalist App downloaded on your phone (we will use these to help us identify species)
  • Binoculars (optional, AWF has 2 pairs to loan if needed)

Meeting Point: Once you register, you will receive an email with detailed driving and meeting instructions prior to the hike.

Note: Dogs are permitted as long as they remain on leash, are friendly, and able to handle a hike.

For More Information: Contact Elise Ketcham, AWF’s Communications Manager, elise@azwildlife.org

Saturday, April 5, 2025 10:00 AM –  12:00 PM MST (AZ)

 

Gabe Zimmerman Trailhead, 16248 E MARSH STATION Rd, Vail, AZ 85641

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Event Liability Disclaimer

Be outdoors Arizona’s event calendar is a repository of various events hosted by many different organizations. Attendance and participation at any of the published events are deemed at your own risk and that attending or taking part in the event must use good judgement, obey all laws and take reasonable care to avoid injury to their person or property. This disclaimer exempts Be Outdoors Arizona and Be Outdoors Arizona Foundation from liability because of loss, damage, theft, or injury to body or property of attendees at any event listed on the calendar.

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