A hands-on McDowell Sonoran Conservancy class on basic trailside bike maintenance: a pre-ride checklist, the tools to carry, and step-by-step chain and tire repair for tubed and tubeless setups. Free; space is limited, so save your spot with the RSVP on the event page.
McDowell Sonoran Conservancy lecture with Don Hadder on master planned developments in Scottsdale, at the Mustang Library. Free; RSVP on the event page.
A moderate 2.5-mile Thanksgiving morning hike (about 1.5 hours) with the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy. Free; RSVP on the event page.
Sonoran Audubon bird outing at White Tank Mountain Regional Park led by Tom Locascio. Questions: locascio2000@hotmail.com.
A guided walk giving an overview of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve's geology and ecology, led by the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy. Free; RSVP on the event page.
Multiple Small Group Mentored Predator Hunts are available throughout the year for new or beginning hunters. Schedule a date, time and location that works for you. Topics include firearm shooting, safety and target shooting practice at a safe shooting range prior to going out hunting. Then in the field, your group will learn the ins [...]
Multiple Small Group Mentored Quail / Upland Bird Hunts throughout the Sesaon (Oct. 16 - Feb. 7, 2027) for new or beginning hunters. Schedule a date, time and location that works for you. Topics include firearm shooting, safety and target shooting practice at a safe shooting range prior to going out hunting. Then in the [...]
Multiple Small Group Mentored Rabbit (cottontail & jackrabbit) Hunts throughout the year for new or beginning hunters. Date, time and location by arrangement. Offerings include firearm shooting, safety and target shooting practice at a safe shooting range prior to going out hunting. Then in the field, we will walk you through all the ins and [...]
Don't miss out! Join the wait list for this event. Multiple Small Group Mentored Late Season Dove Hunts Nov. 20 - Jan. 3, 2027 for beginning hunters. Date, time and location by arrangement. Offerings include firearm shooting, safety and target shooting practice at a safe shooting range prior to going out hunting. Then in the [...]
A difficult 6.8-mile hike (about 3.5 hours, 255 ft gain) through the more remote parts of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, best for experienced hikers. Free; RSVP on the event page.
Explore the science of astronomy and how you can get started stargazing at home with Kevin LeGore of Focus Astronomy. He will explore practical tips for getting started with astronomy at home, from choosing gear to knowing when and where to look. Afterwards, join their team to explore the night sky with professional-grade telescopes. Whether [...]
Phoenix Astronomical Society workshop on setting up and operating your telescope, held at PVCC. End time is approximate.
A one-mile walk on how women lived and worked in the McDowell Mountains, with the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy. Free; RSVP on the event page.
A moderate 4-mile hike following a saguaro's growth from seed to skeleton, led by the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy. Free; RSVP on the event page.
A volunteer herbalist leads a guided walk through the Michael Moore Medicinal Garden at Mission Garden. Learn about the medicinal value of the plants, their traditional uses, and the knowledge surrounding them. Advance registration is required; see the Mission Garden event page for the sign-up link and price.
A guided walk giving a geological and ecological overview of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve's plants and animals and how they survive. Free; RSVP on the event page.
A moderate 2.2-mile hike on why destructive desert fires are increasing and how Conservancy research helps limit them. Free; RSVP on the event page.
A resident bird expert leads a walk through Mission Garden to observe the birds that live in or visit the garden. Take your time, explore the grounds, and learn about local birds. Everyone is welcome, whether you are an experienced birder or just curious. Bring binoculars and comfortable walking shoes. Meet at the front entrance. [...]
A walk into the McDowell Sonoran Preserve's plants, animals, and recent and ancient history. Bring your own water. Free; RSVP on the event page.
This mentored waterfowl hunt is for hunters between the ages of 11 and 17. This camp provides mentors, shooting instruction, waterfowl identification, calling, using blinds, field dressing, game processing and more. There will be centralized remote camping and some meals will be provided. Registration Opens: October 2, 2026 at 10:30am CDT Note: THIS EVENT REQUIRES [...]
An easy two-hour walk on the diversity of arthropods and their role in desert ecology. Free; RSVP on the event page.
A difficult 6.5-mile loop past a scenic overlook and Balanced Rock, with a chance to see early spring flowers near the end. Free; RSVP on the event page.
An easier-paced, no-drop group ride to see crested saguaros, for advanced beginner to intermediate riders with good cardio and bike handling. Free; RSVP on the event page.
A no-drop group ride (about 3 hours) with several rest stops and some moderate climbs, for advanced beginner to intermediate riders; no high technical skill needed. Free; RSVP on the event page.
McDowell Sonoran Conservancy's Sonoran Sundays series at the Gateway Trailhead: Sonoran Soaring: Desert Birds of Prey, presented by Wild at Heart. Free; RSVP on the event page.
A very difficult 9.3-mile hike (about 5 hours, 1,500+ ft elevation change) climbing to Tom's Thumb and East End, then returning through McDowell Mountain Regional Park. Free; RSVP on the event page.
The Gilbert Riparian Preserve is one of the Valley's most important urban wildlife habitats. This guided walk with park rangers from the preserve explores wetlands, birds, and the critical role riparian areas play in desert ecosystems. Part of the Arizona Wildlife Federation's monthly All Afield Hikes series. Registration was not yet open as of this [...]
A walk on how desert wildlife communicates through sight, sound, scent, movement and vibration. Free; RSVP on the event page.
A search for signs of nocturnal desert animals, such as middens, burrows and holes, along the Camino Campana. Free; RSVP on the event page.
A difficult 7.5-mile hike (about 3.5 hours, 280 ft gain) past several of the Preserve's iconic granite formations, best for experienced hikers. Free; RSVP on the event page.
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