Sedona, AZ: Red Rock State Park offers a variety of environmental activities including geology talks and nature walks in August.
On Sunday, Art Smith, a retired geologist and geophysicist of the oil and gas industry, will present "Volcanoes of Northern Arizona." Beginning about 15 million years ago and continuing to the present day, northern Arizona has been the site of significant volcanic activity. This presentation will describe the wide variety of volcanic features in the Flagstaff and Verde Valley areas and explain the geology behind their creation. Reservations are recommended, as seating is limited. The presentation will be held August 3, at 2 p.m., in the park theater. Please call (928) 282-6907.
The Moonlight Hike continues on Saturday, August 16. An unforgettable experience, the hike includes a naturalist-led interpretive presentation along the park's beautiful trails. Enjoy the sunset and moonrise from an overlook and return by the light of the moon. The hike leaves promptly from the Visitor Center at 6:30 p.m. No late arrivals may join once the hike has commenced. Please wear suitable clothing and bring water, insect spray and a flashlight.
Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday in August, join a volunteer for a Sunset Hike along the Red Rock State Park's trails. The hike starts from the Visitor Center at 6 p.m.
Every Wednesday and Saturday at 7 a.m., in August, visitors will find bird enthusiasts joining a naturalist for a "Guided Bird Walk." Beginners as well as advanced birders are welcome. Rangers recommend visitors bring their own binoculars. A limited number are available for loan from the park.
Daily at 10 a.m., visitors can join a naturalist on a guided nature walk that lasts 1-2 hours and will introduce them to the riparian ecosystem of Oak Creek and other aspects of the park. Plants, wildlife, geology, history and archaeology are some of the subjects that may be discussed.
Daily at 2 p.m., the park hosts a ranger-or naturalist-led activity of approximately 1-hour. Programs may include a nature-hike, a special presentation or an educational/nature video. This program may be an indoor or outdoor activity.
For more information call (928) 282-6907. Red Rock State Park is located on the Lower Red Rock Loop Road off Hwy 89A, southwest of Sedona. Park hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Visitor Center hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Park Entrance Fee is $6 per vehicle for up to 4 adults, each additional adult is charged $2 each. (There is no charge for children). A $2 per person entrance fee applies to pedestrians, equestrians and bicyclists. Arizona State Parks Annual Pass is available for $50 (some restrictions apply) and Premium Annual Pass is sold for $125.
The unique land-based ecosystem, closely associated with Oak Creek, provides the setting and the opportunity for Red Rock State Park to offer a center for environmental education. With its diverse riparian habitat for plants and wildlife, Red Rock State Park offers special hikes and programs as a regular part of the park's environmental program.
For information about Arizona State Parks call (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703) or visit the website at www.azstateparks.com.
Article courtesy of Ellen Bilbrey, Arizona State Parks.
Posted July 24, 2008.
