Sedona AZ (March 5, 2014) – In March 2014 at Red Rock State Park, learn about the Coronado Expedition in the lecture series or enjoy a hike or walk amidst the beautiful landscape of the Sedona red rocks. The park offers guided hikes and bird walks as well as the opportunity to explore on your own.
Geology Walk: On Sunday, March 9 at 1 p.m., join our knowledgeable volunteers as they venture out on the trails and discuss how Sedona transformed from millions of years of erosion and has receded over four miles. This is an interpretive experience for beginners as well as experienced hikers. The hike lasts 2 to 2.5 hours and has a 250 feet elevation climb. Bring water and wear suitable footwear.
Lecture Series – “For God, Gold and Glory: The Coronado Expedition 1540-1542” by Jim Turner: On Sunday, March 30th at 2 p.m., the Park will host Jim Turner as he leads a virtual tour about Francisco Vasquez de Coronado and the largest European expedition in Arizona in 1540. The presentation will be shown through images by famous artists, maps, scenic and historical photographs and archaeological remains form one of Coronado’s campsites. Jim Turner has worked as a historian all over the state of Arizona. Turner has been researching and studying the state’s history for more than 30 years with the Arizona Historical Society. Space is limited, so call ahead to reserve your spot. The program is included with the Park’s admission fees of $5 per adult (14 and up), $3 per youth (7-13) and free for children (0-6). For additional information and reservations, please call (928) 282-6907. This program was made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council.
Bird Watching: On Wednesday and Saturday mornings at 8 a.m., bird enthusiasts will join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginning and advanced birders. Bring your own binoculars; only a limited number are available for loan from the park. Visitors will see many birds that make the park their home. The Hummingbird Patio is an excellent spot to start your tour. Another good viewing point is the visitor center roof. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the visitor center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as an Important Birding Area because of the many species who live or visit here.
Nature Walk: Daily at 10 a.m., a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk and informs visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on the walk include: plants, wildlife, geology, history and archaeology. The walk is a learning experience allowing participants to take part in question and answer sessions.
Daily at 2 p.m., the park hosts a ranger/naturalist led activity of approximately 45-minutes. Programs may include a nature-hike, a special presentation or an educational/nature video. This program may be an indoor or outdoor activity.
Picnic Areas and Shelters: Several covered ramadas and picnic tables are available to reserve throughout the park. The ramadas feature charcoal barbecue grills, picnic tables, electrical outlets, water and nearby restrooms. To inquire about reserving a ramada for groups, call the park at (928) 282-6907. These areas are also available for daily visitors.
Red Rock State Park is a “pack in-pack out” facility and does not provide trash receptacles. Please remember to “pack out” your trash with you to help us protect the environment and wildlife.
Junior Ranger Program: A Junior Ranger program is available for children between the ages of six and 12. Junior Rangers pledge their part in helping preserve the beauty of the park for everyone! Junior Ranger booklets, available at the Visitor Center, have activities to complete. Once approved by a Ranger, the newest Junior Ranger at Red Rock State Park is sworn in after taking the pledge and receiving a Junior Ranger button.
Visitor Center: The Park Visitor Center features many displays about the area’s geology, archaeology, flora and fauna, including an interactive relief map of Sedona and computer programs about various park features, including the House of Apache Fires. The popular video, “The Natural Wonders of Sedona” narrated by local voice-over artist John Conway, is shown several times daily in the Park Theatre. Aerial explorations reveal ancient Indian ruins and dramatic landscapes, colorful desert wildflowers and local wildlife. There is also a Gift Shop with a wide selection of books, mementos, t-shirts and snacks, adjacent to the displays.
For more information about Red Rock State Park call (928) 282-6907. Red Rock State Park is located at 4050 Lower Red Rock Loop Road in Sedona, AZ. Park hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the Visitor Center is open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Park Entrance Fee is $5 per adult (14 and up), $3 per youth (7-13) and free for children (0-6). The Arizona State Park Annual Fee is available for $75 (some restrictions apply).
For information about all 27 Arizona State Parks, the Trails and Off-Highway Vehicle Programs and State Historic Preservation Office call (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703). Campsite reservations can be made online at AZStateParks.com or by calling the Reservation Call Center at (520) 586-2283. Open 7 days a week, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MST. Follow AZStateParks on Twitter and Facebook.
