Be Outdoors Arizona

Tres Rios Nature Festival - City of Avondale
2026-02-28 10:00 - 2026-03-01 15:00 (America/Phoenix) | Baseline & Meridian Wildlife Area, S. Avondale Blvd, Tolleson, AZ, 85353, United States
Nature lovers, rejoice! This festival showcases the plants, animals, sustainability, and ecological relationships of our local nature area. Between guided bird tours, beautiful eco-crafts, and endless discoveries to be made about Southwest wildlife, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Arizona’s beautiful spring season.
The festival highlights the ways humans make connections with our natural spaces. The free two-day event will include bird watching, nature walks, presentations and FISHING in the Gila River that runs right through the wildlife area!

Arizona’s Wild Past: From Ancient Seas to Desert Sands
2026-03-03 18:00 - 19:30 | The Holland Center, 34250 N 60th Rd, Scottsdale, 85266
Did you know Arizona was once covered by oceans, rocked by volcanoes, and reshaped again and again over nearly 2 billion years? Join Dr. Steve Semken of Arizona State University for a fascinating, story-driven journey through the forces that built the landscapes we love today.
With stunning visuals and easy-to-follow storytelling, you’ll travel through deep time to discover how shifting continents, fiery eruptions, and dramatic climate changes carved everything from the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon to the sunbaked Sonoran Desert. No geology background needed—just curiosity and a sense of wonder!

Event Details
🗓 Tuesday, March 3⏰ 6:00 PM📍 Holland Center34250 N 60th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85266

Registration
✨ Free to attend, but registration is required due to limited seating.Sign up at dflt.org/speakerseries
Come see Arizona in a whole new way—you’ll never look at the ground beneath your feet the same again!

Tumamoc Talks: Stinknet Stay Away!
2026-03-04 17:30 - 18:30 | Tumamoc Hill Boathouse, Tucson, 85745, United States
The Desert Laboratory on Tumamoc Hill invites you to a public lecture in its ongoing series exploring the science, ecology, history, and culture of the Sonoran Desert. These talks are free and open to the public and highlight current research and timely environmental issues affecting our region.
🗓 Wednesday, March 4th🕠 5:30 PM
🎤 Stinknet Stay Away! An invasive species transforming desert wildfire risk
Stinknet (Oncosiphon pilulifer, also known as globe chamomile) is a relatively new invasive species in Pima County, though it has been present in the Sonoran Desert for nearly three decades. This aggressive plant dramatically increases wildfire risk by adding dense, continuous fuel loads to desert landscapes where it spreads.
In this talk, you’ll learn about the history, biology, and impacts of stinknet, including how it threatens native plants and public safety. The presentation will also share practical tips for identification and removal, empowering community members to help slow its spread.
About the Speaker:Rachel Mitchell is an Associate Professor at the University of Arizona whose work focuses on how ecosystems across the Southwest respond to climate change, invasive species, and altered fire regimes.
📍 Location: Tumamoc Hill Boathouse (base of the Hill)1675 W. Anklam Rd., Tucson, AZ
🚗 Parking:Street parking is available on Anklam Road or in the lot at the corner of Anklam and Silverbell.Note: There is no event parking available on Tumamoc Hill.
📞 Questions?(520) 621-6945✉️ tumamoc-hill@arizona.edu
👉 RSVP:https://forms.gle/exVsCB8v8HGN6U817

Plant Stravaganza on Tumamoc Hill
2026-03-07 08:00 - 11:00 | Tumamoc Hill Boathouse, Tucson, 85745, United States
Get ready to dig in and celebrate all things plants at Plant Stravaganza, a free, family-friendly community event held at the base of beautiful Tumamoc Hill! Meet local plant organizations, connect with plant experts, and learn more about the incredible plants of the Sonoran Desert—and beyond.

What’s Happening
Stop by the Tumamoc Historic Boathouse to chat with plant-centric organizations, ask your burning plant questions, and discover new ways to grow, share, and care for plants in our desert environment.

Fun Activities for All Ages
🌱 Plant Swap – Bring a plant, take a plant!🌼 Seedball Workshop – Learn how to spread native plants the fun way♻️ Composting Information – Turn scraps into soil🎁 Giveaways Galore – Plants, seeds, and more🧒 Kids Activities – Hands-on fun for young plant lovers🌿 Plant Demos – Tips, tricks, and inspiration…and so much more!

🎟 Cost: FREE and open to the public of all ages📍 Location: Tumamoc Historic Boathouse (base of Tumamoc Hill)
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just plant-curious, Plant Stravaganza is the perfect way to grow your knowledge, connect with the community, and celebrate desert plants together! 🌵🌞

Southern Arizona Quail Forever Family Day
2026-03-07 08:00 - 13:00 | Empire Ranch Airstrip Group Campsite, Highway 83 and Empire Ranch Road sonoita, AZ 85637
Come experience a full day of outdoor skills, conservation education, and hands-on learning!
Participants will have the opportunity to explore trap shooting, archery, BB gun range, wildlife biology, drone operations, falconry, fly fishing, live bird dog hunt demonstrations, gear selection, and expert instruction—and more. Whether you’re brand new or looking to sharpen your skills, there’s something for everyone.
This event is designed to introduce participants to outdoor recreation, wildlife stewardship, and safe, responsible shooting sports in a supportive, family-friendly environment.
🥓 Free breakfast & lunch provided
📍 Location: Empire Ranch, north of Sonoita🤝 Hosted by: Southern Arizona Quail Forever & Huachuca Gould’s Chapter, National Wild Turkey Federation🚶 Walk-ins are welcome!
📞 Contact:Tony Valentino520-465-6569avalen18@aol.com
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn new skills, meet experienced mentors, and enjoy a day in the field!

Chimney Rock Orienteering Weekend
2026-03-07 09:30 - 2026-03-08 17:00 | Passage 10 – Redington Pass
The road to the event is rough and not recommended for low-clearance vehicles. Sedans can make it with slow, careful driving, but high-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended for comfort and safety.
To ensure everyone can attend—regardless of vehicle type or comfort on unpaved roads—we will carpool from Udall Park:
📍 Meet at the northeasternmost parking lot at Udall Park🕗 8:15–8:30 am🚙 Drive time to trailhead: 40–60 minutes
Final parking is at Redington Pass Trailhead (OHV lot off Redington Rd.).⚠️ The final 8 miles are unpaved with rocky and uneven sections.

🧭 Courses
Both days feature four course options designed for different experience levels:

Long Advanced (7–8 km): For experienced orienteers looking for a challenge

Short Advanced (~4 km): Technical but shorter

Novice (2–3 km): Ideal for first-timers

Explorer (Score): Choose-your-own-route format

🗺️ Maps
Waterproof printed maps will be provided to all participants at the event site.Map scales:• Long courses: 1:10,000• Short courses: approx. 1:7,500

📱 Livelox
If you use a GPS watch or phone app, you can upload your route to Livelox (Saturday and Sunday) after the event to:
• See your path• Compare routes• Learn from others
Click +Add Route and follow the upload instructions.

⏰ Schedule

9:30 am – Check-in opens

9:45 am – Free Beginner Clinic (arrive 15 minutes early; request during registration)

9:45 am – Free Intermediate Clinic (request during registration)

10:00 am – First start

11:30 am – Last start

2:00 pm – Courses close

⛺ Camping
Dry camping is available near the parking area on Redington Rd. (Forest Service land).This is totally unsupported camping:
• No running water• Pit toilet only• No trash service — pack out what you bring

📝 Registration (Required)
Pre-registration is required to manage crowd size and print the correct number of maps.
• Everyone must register individually, even if participating as a team• Registration closes Friday, March 6 at noon• Discounts available for members and juniors

🎒 What to Bring
✔ Safety whistle (required — $1 onsite)✔ Compass (rent $1 onsite)✔ Water (and snacks if desired)✔ Watch or phone (to track your time)

⏱️ E-Punch Timing
This event uses electronic punching for timing and verification.• Instruction provided for first-time users• E-punch sticks available to rent for $2

💲 Fees

Adults: $12 (or $8 with member discount)

Juniors (11–20): $6

Kids (0–10): Free with adult

Discounts apply for AZ club members, kids under 11, and Friend-for-Free participants.

🤝 Friend-for-Free (TSN Members)
TSN members may bring one first-time guest free if the guest:

Has never attended a TSN or OUSA event

Pre-registers

Attends with the member

To claim the free entry:Select “Yes” in the Friend field under Discount Codes and list the member’s name in the Notes section.

👧 Youth Participants
All participants under 18 must submit a waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian.See Instructions for Minors for full details.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Volunteers Needed
Volunteers help make the event run smoothly. No experience needed—we’ll train you.Sign up during registration or contact the meet director.

⚠️ Safety Rule (Mandatory)
For safety, everyone must formally check in at Start/Finish before leaving the site—even if you do not finish your course.

Family Outdoor Fest
2026-03-07 10:00 - 13:00 | Cactus Park, 3801 W. Cactus Rd, Phoenix, 85029, United States
Come on out to Cactus Park for a family outdoor skills festival! It’s FREE!
The Outdoor Fest is for kids of all ages. We will be teaching some basic outdoor skills such as pitching a tent, animal track identification, using a compass, archery and a host of other activities. Play some fun games and learn about the outdoors. Food will be available for a minimal cost.

If you would like to volunteer and help out please reach out to zhara.pope@yahoo.com

Venom as Medicine: Nature’s Toxins and the Future of Healing
2026-03-10 18:00 - 20:30 | Valley of the Sun J, 12701 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ, 85254, United States
Modern medical science has achieved remarkable breakthroughs—from organ transplants to gene therapy—but some of the most promising innovations are coming from an unexpected source: venom. In this fascinating talk led by Dr. Ken Sweat of Arizona State University, we’ll explore how compounds that evolved to harm can be harnessed to heal.
Discover how venom from snakes, spiders, scorpions, and other creatures is being studied and transformed into powerful treatments for pain, neurological disorders, heart disease, and more. This presentation offers a captivating look at the intersection of nature, evolution, and cutting-edge medical research.

Event Details

Date: Tuesday, March 10

Time: 6:00 PM

Location: Valley of the Sun J12701 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85254

Registration
This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required.Register at dflt.org/speakerseries
Whether you’re interested in medicine, biology, or the hidden power of the natural world, this thought-provoking presentation is sure to surprise and inspire.

Tumamoc Author Series: Theresa Crimmins
2026-03-11 18:00 - 19:30 | Tumamoc Hill Boathouse, Tucson, 85745, United States
Book Presentation – Free Event🗓 Wednesday, March 11, 2026🕕 6:00 PM📍 Tumamoc Hill Boathouse1675 W. Anklam Rd., Tucson, AZ👉RSVP HERE
What can the seasonal rhythms of plants and animals reveal about the health of our planet—and our own well-being?
Join Theresa Crimmins, Director of the USA National Phenology Network and Associate Professor at the University of Arizona, for an inspiring presentation based on her new book, Phenology (MIT Press, 2025).
With warmth and scientific clarity, Crimmins introduces audiences to the fascinating science of life-cycle timing in nature—from leaf-out and flowering to bird migration and insect emergence. She demonstrates how paying attention to these seasonal patterns deepens our sense of place, strengthens climate research, and supports personal well-being.
In this talk, Crimmins invites us all to become “everyday phenologists” and take part in a joyful and urgent practice that benefits both mental health and environmental stewardship.
🎥 Bonus:Check out Theresa’s TED Talk:Observing the Outer World to Change Our Inner One | Theresa Crimmins | TEDxUofA

Tumamoc Book Swap
2026-03-13 09:00 - 13:00 | Tumamoc Hill Boathouse, Tucson, 85745, United States
Do you love books? 📖📚A generous Tumamoc Hill community member has donated a wonderful collection of books, and we’re excited to share them with you!
Join us Friday, March 13th from 9:00 AM–1:00 PM at the Tumamoc Hill Historic Boathouse for a free book swap. Browse through a variety of titles and take home something new to read—no purchase required!
✨ How it works:Bring books you’re ready to pass along (optional) and swap them for new-to-you reads. Whether you’re into fiction, nonfiction, or something for the whole family, there will be something for every kind of reader.
👜 Don’t forget to bring bags for your books!
📍 Location: Tumamoc Hill Boathouse (base of the Hill)1675 W. Anklam Rd., Tucson, AZ
🚗 Parking:Street parking is available on Anklam Road or in the lot at the corner of Anklam and Silverbell.Note: There is no event parking available on Tumamoc Hill.
📞 Questions?(520) 621-6945✉️ tumamoc-hill@arizona.edu
Come celebrate reading, reuse, and community—your next favorite book might be waiting for you! 📚💛

Phoenix Zoo Family Camp
2026-03-14 18:15 - 2026-03-15 09:00 | 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix AZ 85008, 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, 85008
Now everyone can experience Night Camp! Twice a year, the Zoo offers camps just for families! Groups will bring and set up their own tents on the lawn outside of the Red Barn. These camps have prepared activities, plus pre-set dates and sleeping locations.
All Night Camps include:
Pizza dinner | Evening snack | Souvenir water bottle | Guided trail hikes | Activities/games | Up-close animal encounters | For overnight camps: Continental breakfast and admission to the Zoo the next day

Sporting Clay Fun Shoot
2026-03-15 07:30 - 13:00 | Ben Avery Shooting Facility, 4044 W. Black Canyon Blvd Phoenix, AZ 85086
🎯 Beginner-Friendly Shooting Event
This event is designed for beginners—those who are new to shooting sports or just learning the fundamentals.
Beginner Definition:A person who is inexperienced or new to the activity and learning basic skills.
Event Focus:• Basic take of wildlife (1-day format)• Pass shooting• Species focus: dove, ducks, squirrel
Skill Meter: 1–5Mentoring Meter: 7–10(Plenty of guidance and support available!)

About the Event
ASRPA Gold Stars Sporting Clays Fun Shoot
📅 Date: Sunday, March 15, 2026⏰ Time: 7:30 AM Check-In | 8:00 AM Start📍 Location: Roadrunner Course, Ben Avery Clay Target Center, Phoenix, AZ
👥 Format:3–5 member teams(Don’t have a team? No problem! You can join a team that needs extra shooters—great way to meet new friends.)
🏆 Scoring:Scores don’t count! Each participant receives a raffle ticket with their score card.Winners are selected by drawing raffle tickets—about 1 in every 10 shooters will win award prizes.
💲 Fee:$40 – ASRPA Members$75 – Non-ASRPA Members

This is a fun, low-pressure way to learn the basics, meet fellow beginners, and enjoy a supportive shooting environment. Perfect if you’re just getting started or want to build confidence with expert mentoring along the way.

Tumamoc Hill Youth Program
2026-03-21 09:00 - 10:30 | Tumamoc Hill Boathouse, Tucson, 85745, United States
Join us for the Tumamoc Hill Youth Program!
Every month brings a brand-new adventure with a fresh theme, a special guest speaker, and a hands-on art activity—all completely free!
🌞 Sonoran Desert Animal Painting
Kids will enjoy a fun, bite-sized science talk with Robert Villa (Desert Laboratory & Tucson Herpetological Society), then dive into a creative painting session with local artist Kayla Faulkner.🎨 All art supplies are provided—just bring your imagination!
📍 Location: Tumamoc Hill Historic Boathouse (base of the Hill)1675 W. Anklam Rd., Tucson, AZ
🚗 Parking:Street parking is available on Anklam Rd. or in the lot at the corner of Anklam & Silverbell.⚠️ Please note: There is no event parking available on Tumamoc Hill.
Come explore Sonoran Desert wildlife through science and art in a fun, welcoming environment. We can’t wait to see you there!

Plant Seed Ball workshop
2026-03-21 09:30 - 10:30 | Tumamoc Hill Boathouse, Tucson, 85745, United States
Join us in Tucson at Tumamoc Hill for a quick, kid-friendly science presentation followed by an art activity. All materials provided!
Seedball making to grow plants at home!

Bird Walk at San Pedro House
2026-03-28 07:00 - 10:00 | San Pedro House, Sierra Vista, AZ, United States
The San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area (SPRNCA) provides habitat for over 100 species of breeding birds. The San Pedro River is also a critical avian migration corridor that provides water, food, and shelter for another 250migratory and wintering birds. Novice and experienced bird watchers attend our bird walks to view the diverse avian community of the SPRNCA. We usually observe 30-60 species on these popular two-to-three-hour walks.
Bring water, a hat, and binoculars. All are welcome, but the walks may not be suitable for young children. These walks can be moderately difficult on uneven terrain. No dogs, please. All walks are free, no reservations required. Participants must sign a liability waiver before the walk starts.
Meet at the San Pedro House, 9800 E. Highway 90. San Pedro House is searchable in Google Maps. For more information, call (520)508-4445 or email fspr@sanpedroriver.org. Hosted by the Friends of the San Pedro River.

28th Annual Hike for Hope
2026-03-28 08:00 - 12:00 | McDowell Mountain Regional Park (Pemberton Trailhead), 16300 McDowell Mountain Park Dr. Fountain Hills, AZ, 85268, United States
We are thrilled to host the 28th Annual Hike for Hope! Your support helps us continue to provide pathways to self-sufficiency through quality employment and housing.
The Worker helps guide and empower individuals to save for stable, market-rate housing while attending our critical life skills classes. Your support ensures participants receive the tools they need to achieve financial independence and long-term workplace success.
Every step taken at Hike for Hope represents a step toward stability, dignity, and opportunity for those we serve. Our work is only possible because of the generosity and commitment of people like you!
Bring your friends, lace up your walking shoes, and be part of a morning that makes a real difference in our community.

Event Schedule
8:00 – 9:00 am  Check-In & T-Shirt Distribution8:30 – 9:30 am  Enjoy Coffee, Donuts, Bagels, & Fruit9:15 – 9:30 am  Announcements & Prizes9:30 – 11:30 am Pick a Trail (1.5m or 4.5m) & Hike11:30 – Noon  Celebrate with Breakfast Burritos

History Walk, Grand Central Mill
2026-03-28 09:00 - 11:00 | Fairbank School House, Huachuca City, 85616, United States
Take a walk to the ruins of the historic Grand Central Mill. During the Tombstone silver boom, this stamp mill operated 24 hours a day, processing ore brought from Tombstone by wagons. Learn about the mining history of the area during a three-mile round trip walk to the mill site. This walk follows an uneven dirt and gravel trail. Please realistically assess your ability to do this walk. There is limited shade, and it will be hot on sunny days. Wear a hat, sun protection, appropriate clothing, and sturdy shoes. Bring water and snacks.
All walks are free, no reservations required. Participants must sign a liability waiver before the walk starts. This tour meets at the Fairbank Townsite, which is along Highway 82, 10.0 miles east of the Highway82/90 intersection in Whetstone. The entrance to the parking area is on the north side of the highway about 0.5 mile east of the San Pedro River bridge. The tour will meet near the Schoolhouse Museum.
Park in the outer lot and use the fenced trail to walk to the Schoolhouse. “Fairbank AZ” is directly searchable in Google Maps. For more information, call (520) 508-4445 or email fspr@sanpedroriver.org. Hosted by the Friends of the San Pedro River.

VO - Lake Pleasant Monday Clean-Up Crew
2026-03-30 07:00 - 09:00 | Lake Pleasant, Arizona, USA
Volunteers will meet staff outside of the main building at the Entry Station, where they will sign them in. After signing in, volunteers will be directed to where to park for litter pick-up efforts. Volunteers should be prepared to pick up litter along the shoreline and throughout the park as directed by staff. Volunteers should be heat-tolerant and mindful of their walking and hiking ability.
What should the volunteers bring? – Water, salty snacks, and fruit (oranges are best for hot weather), hat, sunscreen, closed-toed shoes/boots made for uneven surfaces, sunglasses, and work gloves.
What equipment will be provided? Some additional gloves are available, limited supply, litter pickers, and bags.
Contact information of person-in-charge:
Koy D. Mangan
Lake Pleasant Regional Park Supervisor
Lake Pleasant Regional Park
41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Road
Morristown, AZ 85342
koy.mangan@maricopa.gov
602-506-9555

Go on Scenic San Pedro River Bird Walks
2026-04-01 07:00 - 10:00 | San Pedro House, Sierra Vista, AZ, United States
Bird watchers can attend one of many bird walks held throughout April. The San Pedro River is home to 100 to 250 species of birds that migrate in and out during Spring. During this bird walk, expect to see 30 to 60 species in a two-to-three-hour span. If you have questions, call (520) 508-4445 or email fspr@sanpedroriver.org.

Wednesday's A Trail Day 7
2026-04-01 08:00 - 13:00 | Arizona Trail Passage 5, 31.79277,-110.74700, AZ, United States
Please join the ATA on April 1 on Passage 5 near Sonoita for a #SRST trail work event. This project is rated easy. Our project will focus on handfinishing the new machine-built single track.For more information or to register for the event, visit our volunteer portal here.

Tumamoc Talks: Desert Purple Martins - Star Birds of the Arizona Monsoon
2026-04-01 17:30 - 18:30 | Tumamoc Hill Boathouse, Tucson, 85745, United States
The Desert Laboratory on Tumamoc Hill invites you to its ongoing public lecture series exploring the science, ecology, history, and culture of the Sonoran Desert. These talks highlight fascinating research and discoveries about the landscapes and species that make our region unique. All talks are free and open to the public.
🗓 Wednesday, April 1st🕠 5:30 PM
🎤 Desert Purple Martins – Star Birds of the Arizona Monsoonwith Jennie MacFarland
The Desert Purple Martin is a remarkable and little-studied subspecies that times its nesting to the life-giving abundance of the Arizona monsoon. These birds nest almost exclusively in saguaros and other large columnar cacti, making them a unique part of the Sonoran Desert ecosystem.
Despite their distinctive behavior, Desert Purple Martins remain extremely understudied, with major gaps in our understanding of their nesting habits, migration routes, and wintering grounds. In this presentation, Jennie MacFarland will share recent discoveries and new research findings, along with captivating video and audio recordings that highlight the charm and fascinating behavior of these monsoon-timed birds.
About the Speaker:Jennie MacFarland is the Director of Bird Conservation at the Tucson Bird Alliance. She co-coordinates the Arizona Bird Areas Program and leads the Tucson Bird Count, a citywide urban spring bird survey that engages the community in bird conservation and research.
📍 Location: Tumamoc Hill Boathouse (base of the Hill)1675 W. Anklam Rd., Tucson, AZ
🚗 Parking:Street parking is available on Anklam Road or in the lot at the corner of Anklam and Silverbell.Note: There is no event parking available on Tumamoc Hill.
📞 Questions?(520) 621-6945✉️ tumamoc-hill@arizona.edu
👉 RSVP:https://forms.gle/fpowpHqzWt2ew8wa8

Veteran Volunteer Work Weekend: Operation Singletrack Sortie II
2026-04-02 - 2026-04-05 | Enzenberg Canyon, 100 Arizona St, Bisbee, AZ, United States
SIGN UP TODAY for Operation Singletrack Sortie II
(AZT VETS Program – Veteran Volunteer Work Weekend)
Santa Rita Singletrack Reroute | Operation Freedom March (OFM) Event
Following the opening push of the season, the AZT VETS Program returns to the Santa Rita Mountains to build on momentum and drive the Santa Rita Singletrack Reroute closer to completion.
From April 2 – April 5, 2026, this follow-on operation welcomes both returning and first-time participants to continue constructing new tread, refining corridor flow, and strengthening the trail for long-term sustainability. As an official Operation Freedom March event, this mission remains open to veterans, families, and supporters committed to service through stewardship.
📅 Event Schedule
Thursday, April 2
Arrival and camp setup (location details to follow)
Fireside meet & greet with the AZT VETS crew
Dinner and safety briefing
Friday & Saturday, April 3-4
Breakfast at camp
Trail design & construction refresher (tools, techniques, safety)
New tread construction and corridor shaping (lunch provided on-site)
Evening meals and campfire camaraderie
Sunday, April 5 (Easter)
Breakfast and optional morning work session (weather permitting)
Group gratitude circle and project recap
Early afternoon departure
🪓 Details
Meals: Most meals provided at no cost
Registration: Pre-registration required; limited capacity
Who’s Invited: Veterans, military families, and supporters (Operation Freedom March)
Trail Work: Moderate to strenuous physical labor; all experience levels welcome—training provided
⚠️ Health & Safety
The ATA will continue to follow health protocols as recommended by public health officials. Please avoid attending if you are feeling unwell or have recently been exposed to a contagious illness. Monitor your health and notify Chappy if your condition changes before or after the event.
📩 Registration & Contact
For more information or to sign up, contact:

📧 chappy@aztrail.org

📱 Call or text: (970) 779-5740

Arizona Public Lands Day Hike with Arizona Wildlife Federation
2026-04-03 07:30 - 09:30 | Sandy’s Canyon to Flagstaff
Celebrate Arizona Public Lands Day: An All Afield Hike with AWF + AZT in Sandy’s Canyon
Saturday, April 4, 2026 @ 8:30 AM
Join us for a guided hike in Sandy’s Canyon near Flagstaff, Arizona, as we celebrate Arizona Public Lands Day in partnership with the Arizona Trail Association. This hidden canyon offers a beautiful place to experience northern Arizona’s landscapes while connecting with the public lands that support wildlife, recreation, and outdoor traditions across our state.
We begin along the canyon rim before descending into Sandy’s Canyon, where dramatic rock walls and ponderosa pine forest create a striking backdrop. After about 1.5 miles, we’ll reach the Arizona Trail, one of Arizona’s most iconic long-distance trails, before turning around and hiking back the same way.
Along the way, we’ll talk about the importance of Arizona’s public lands, how trails like the Arizona Trail connect landscapes and communities, and how these places support wildlife and outdoor recreation. Sandy’s Canyon offers a great place to introduce people to the outdoors and experience the beauty of northern Arizona.
Highlights:

Reach the Arizona Trail and learn about this iconic statewide trail
Experience the dramatic rock walls and scenery of Sandy’s Canyon
Celebrate Arizona Public Lands Day outdoors
Learn about native wildlife and plant species and the importance of Arizona’s public lands

What to Bring:

Sturdy hiking shoes
Hat and sun protection
Plenty of water!
Snacks
Layers for changing mountain weather
Binoculars (optional but recommended, we have 4 pairs to loan)

Additional Info:

We will email meeting location details and directions to registered participants before the hike (the parking area does not always appear correctly on Google Maps)
Hike difficulty: easy to moderate — approximately 3 miles roundtrip with a descent into the canyon and gradual climb back out
Prepare for mountain conditions by bringing layers, sun protection, and extra water
No restroom facilities are available at the trailhead

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

Nature Walk at San Pedro House
2026-04-04 08:00 - 10:00 | San Pedro House, Sierra Vista, AZ, United States
Step away from the everyday noise and into a landscape where the air feels fresher, the colors brighter, and every sound has a story to tell. This guided nature walk meanders through shaded cottonwood-willow groves, with stops along the San Pedro River and Green Kingfisher Pond. Along the way, you may catch glimpses of fluttering butterflies, discover subtle signs of wildlife, and enjoy the steady chorus of birdsong overhead.
Each step reveals something new—from wildflowers swaying in the breezeto glimpses of animals or insects tucked into the undergrowth. Walks cover 1.5to 2 miles on easy terrain and are suitable for most adults and children. The walk is free; reservations are not required. Participants must sign a liabilitywaiver before the walk starts. The San Pedro House is located 7 miles east of Sierra Vista on Highway 90, on the south side of the highway. It is searchable in Google Maps. For more information, call (520) 508-4445or email fspr@sanpedroriver.org. Hosted by the Friends of the San Pedro River.

History Walk to Murray Springs
2026-04-04 09:00 - 11:00 | Murray Springs, N Moson Rd, Sierra Vista, 85635, United States
Join docents from the Friends of the San Pedro River for a tour of the Murray Springs mammoth kill site. Discovered by Dr. C. Vance Haynes from the University of Arizona in 1966, Murray Springs contained not only fossils from mammoth killed by the prehistoric Clovis people, but also projectile points and a bone tool believed to be used to straighten spear shafts. This is an easy walk of less than a half mile, though it does include dirt steps into and out of a dry wash. Please realistically assess your ability to do this walk. The walk is free; reservations are not required. Participants must sign a liability waiver before the walk starts. From E. Highway 90/AZ-90 in Sierra Vista, drive north on Moson Rd. for 1.28 miles and turn east. Meet the docent at the gate to the site. The entrance to the site is searchable as “Murray Springs Clovis Site” in Google Maps.

Maricopa Bird Alliance Monthly Meeting
2026-04-07 19:00 - 20:00 | Papago Buttes Church of the Brethren, 2450 N 64th Street, Scottsdale, 85257, United States
Meetings are in-person and by zoom.
For security, links are posted here close to the meeting date.
Meetings are held on the 1st Tuesday of each month, September through May.
Although there is no charge to attend our general membership meetings, the Annual
Banquet in May does require a dinner reservation and associated cost.
6:00PM Pre-meeting dinner at Saigon Bowl
A pre-meeting dinner is held at Saigon Bowl, 8213 E. Roosevelt Street, Scottsdale for the
September through April meetings. Join us at 6 p.m. for a delicious meal (no-host), meet our guest
speaker and say “howdy” to other birders. Meals average $7.00 to $12.00.
7:00PM Meet and greet at Papago Buttes Church of the Brethren.
7:30PM Meeting starts, featuring Alliance business followed by a guest speaker.

Bird Walk at San Pedro House
2026-04-08 07:00 - 10:00 | San Pedro House, Sierra Vista, AZ, United States
The SPRNCA provides habitat for over 100 species of breeding birds. The San Pedro River is also a critical migrationcorridor that provides water, food, and shelter for another 250 migratory andwintering birds. Novice and experienced bird watchers attend our bird walks toview the diverse avian community of the area. We usually observe 30-60 specieson these popular walks, which last approximately three hours. Bring water, hatand binoculars. These walks can be moderately difficult on uneven terrain. TheSan Pedro House is located 7 miles east of Sierra Vista on Highway 90, on thesouth side of the highway. It is searchable in Google Maps.

Wednesday's A Trail Day 8
2026-04-08 08:00 - 13:00 | Arizona Trail Passage 5, 31.79277,-110.74700, AZ, United States
Please join the ATA on April 8 on Passage 5 near Sonoita for a #SRST trail work event. This project is rated easy. Our project will focus on hand finishing the new machine-built single track.

Tumamoc Hill Author Series
2026-04-08 18:00 - 19:30 | Tumamoc Hill Boathouse, Tucson, 85745, United States
You are cordially invited to the final event of our 2025-26 series. Documentary photographer David Burckhalter will share stunning images of Seri (Comcaac) baskets and the women who make them. His book, Baskets from the Seri Coast: Comcaac Weavers and Their Craft, traces the evolution of Seri basketry from a utilitarian craft to a celebrated art form. Burckhalter has spent five decades cultivating friendships and documenting Seri traditions, landscapes, and basketry in Sonora, Mexico. With detailed insights into the artistry, labor, and legends surrounding Seri baskets, Burckhalter’s images pay tribute to the resilience and creativity of Seri women, whose weaving continues to be passed on to future generations.

History Walk to Millville and Petroglyph Discovery Trail
2026-04-11 09:00 - 11:00 | Millville Petroglyph and Discovery Trail, Huachuca City, 85616, United States
Meeta Friends’ docent for a tour of Millville, site of two historic silver mills,and an adjacent Native American petroglyph site. The tour will focus on thehistory of mining and milling in the area during the Tombstone silver boom.This is about a 2 mile walk on an uneven dirt and gravel trail that crossesthrough a deep wash. Please realistically assess your ability to do this walk. Thewalk is free; reservations are not required. Participants must sign a liabilitywaiver before the walk starts. Meet at the Millville and Petroglyph DiscoveryTrail parking area. This trailhead is located 7.5 miles east of Sierra Vista onCharleston Road. This is not the parking area right by the river. Look for the“Fire Danger Level” sign on the north side of Charleston Rd. at the entrance tothe parking lot, about 0.5 mile east of the river. Meet by the vault toilet.This location is searchable as “Millville and Petroglyph Discovery Trail” inGoogle Maps.
