Saguaro National Park is offering a variety of hikes and talks this winter that explore the park's wonderful natural and cultural histories. Program listings also are available on the park's website, www.nps.gov/sagu, or visit us on Facebook. Interpretive programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Program schedules are subject to change; call the visitor centers for updates or reservations.
Naturalist Programs at Tucson Mountain District (West, 2700 N. Kinney
Road):
February 1 3:45 p.m. Sunset Hike Hike: 3 ½ hours, 3 ½ miles
The route gains 700 feet (with some switchbacks near the top) before reaching a ridgeline for sunset;the descent is by the light of the moon.Ages 10 and above, please. Reservations required: 733-5158
February 2 4:30 p.m. Moon Take Night, Make Day Hike: 3 hours, 2 ½ miles
This 3-hour, 2.5-mile hike follows a desert wash and then ascends an easy hill during the transition from day to night, with a return down the hill and a dirt roadway in the moonlight. This hike is considered easy but does have a few rock outcroppings in the wash. Ages 10 and above, please. Reservations required: 733-5158
February 3 6:30 p.m. Moonrise Over The Mountain Night Patio Presentation: 45 minutes
Guitarist, singer, and songwriter Mark William will perform during this popular "campfire" program on the patio. Joining him will be Robert Hovl, who plays the Native American flute. Listen to music while enjoying a relaxing view of the full moon as it rises above the cactus forest and mountains. No reservations are required;bring a lawn chair and warm clothing. No pets, please. Wheelchair accessible.
February 7, 21 9:45a.m. Bird Walk 30 minutes plus optional additional 30 minutes, ½ mile
Join us for a 30-minute walk in the sandy wash behind the Visitor Center to see what woodpeckers, sparrows and other birds live there among the cacti and shrubs. We will learn how they find food, water and shelter. Those who are interested in more will drive two miles to Sus Picnic area (restrooms available) with its rocky canyon and hills for another 30-minute walk to see what wrens, hawks and other birds live there. Easy walking on sand and dirt road. Birders and non-birders of all ages are invited.
Feb. 25 11:15 a.m. Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail Talk: 45 minutes
In the 1770s Juan Bautista de Anza began a treacherous journey with 240 people to develop an overland route from Mexico to San Francisco to found a mission and presidio to help secure Spanish outposts in Northern California. Along the way, the Anza Trail wound through or near Nogales, Tubac, Tucson, Casa Grande, Phoenix, and Yuma. This program provides an overview of the journey and the history of the trail, as well as a short video and a question and answer period. Wheelchair accessible.
Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23 2:15 p.m. Sonoran Secrets for Desert Safety 45 minute walk, 250 yards
Stroll the Cactus Garden to identify the most common hazards hidden in the desert, uncover survival strategies of native plants and animals, and acquire practical tips to ensure your safety while exploring the Sonoran Desert. Wheelchair accessible.
Naturalist Programs at the Rincon Mountain District(East, 3693 S. Old Spanish
Trail):
Feb. 1, 8 11:00 a.m. The GIANT Cactus ¾ mile guided walk
Saguaro National Park is famous for its gigantic saguaros. Still, you have to know where to look to find a real giant among giants. The best way is to join a ranger for a walk along a desert wash for a lesson in trees of the desert and a look at the only tree-like cactus in the U.S. You'll be surprised by the size! Sturdy shoes and water are recommended
February 4, 11, 18, 25 2:00 p.m. Reptiles of the Sonoran Desert Presentation
Join park naturalist Bob Brandner for this 30-minute presentation to discover the fascinating world of reptiles and amphibians. Wheelchair accessible.
February 5, 12, 19, 2:00 p.m. The Saguaro Nursery ½ mile guided walk
The reports of the saguaro's demise were greatly exaggerated! Take a stroll along a trail to see the next generation of young saguaros and the gradual renewal of the Cactus Forest
February 6, 20 8:00 a.m. Desert Bird Walk 1 mile guided walk
Join volunteer naturalist Ralph Terry for an easy 2-hour walk in search of desert birds. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water.
February 6, 13, 20, 27 2:00 p.m. Drive-Thru Geology 1 hour auto tour
Hop in your car for a journey through 25 million years of earth history…in one hour! We'll observe the varied landforms of the desert -bajadas, washes, outcrops -and find out why geology students from around the world come to see the Rincon Mountain foothills. (Hint: it's the mylonitic gneiss!)g
Februry 6, 20 7:00 p.m. Night Walk 1 mile guided walk
Join a park naturalist for this easy two-hour hike to explore and experience the Sonoran Desert at night. Dress for the weather, wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring water and a flashlight. As space is limited, advanced reservations are required, and can be made by calling 733-5153.
February 7, 14, 21, 28 11:00 a.m. History 101 guided walk
Join a park ranger on a 1 to 2-mile walk and learn about some of the history that has made Saguaro National Park the great place it is today.
February 7, 14, 28 4:30 p.m. Sunset Stroll ½ mile guided walk
Sonoran Desert sunsets are famous for their blazing colors. Join a park ranger to discover how nature will paint the sky tonight.
February 12 1:00 p.m. Wildflowers and Their Pollinators Presentation
In special springs such as this one, when the winter rains have been plentiful, nature throws an exuberant party with wildflowers as the guests of honor. It is a spectacular but uncommon event with perhaps 10, 20, 30 years or more between such incredible displays. Join desert naturalist Pinau Merlin in the visitor center auditorium to learn about and celebrate our desert wildflowers. Wheelchair accessible.
February 19 7:00 p.m. StarParty illustrated program & activity
Join park naturalists for an introduction to astronomy and a look at the desert night sky. Telescopes and binoculars will be available. Reservations required. Call 733-5153. Wheelchair accessible.
Visitor Center Locations/Phone Numbers:
Both visitor centers are open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, except Christmas Day.
Red Hills Visitor Center (Saguaro WEST) Rincon Mountain Visitor Center (Saguaro EAST)
2700 North Kinney Road 3693 South Old Spanish Trail
Tucson, AZ 85743 Tucson, AZ 85730
(520) 733-5158 (520) 733-5153
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
