Tuesday, July 1, 2008

Red Rock State Park July Activities

Red Rock State Park offers a variety of environmental activities including moonlight & sunset hikes this month.

Due to the July 4th holiday weekend, the First Sunday program has been moved to the second Sunday of July. On Sunday, July 13th, at 2 pm in the park theater, Dennis Jex will present "Close Encounters of the Reptilian Kind." Come & enjoy a fun & educational presentation about snakes. See a slide presentation & live snake display! Learn how to treat & avoid a snakebite. Are Mohave Green Rattlesnakes really common around Sedona? Do you know what to do if bitten by a rattlesnake? Find out the answer to these & many other questions during this fun presentation. Reservations are suggested, as seating is limited. Presentation is free with $6 paid admission to the park. For reservations, please call (928) 282-6907.

The Moonlight Hike continues on Thursday, July 17th. An unforgettable experience, the hike includes a naturalist-led interpretive presentation along the park's beautiful trails. Enjoy the sunset & moonrise from an overlook & return by the light of the moon. The hike lasts 2 to 21/2 hours, has an elevation climb of 200-250 feet & covers approx. 2 miles. The hike leaves promptly from the Visitor Center at 7 pm. No late arrivals may join once the hike has commenced. Wear appropriate hiking shoes (no sandals) & bring water, a flashlight & insect spray.

Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday in July, join a volunteer for a Sunset Hike. The hike begins from the Visitor Center at 6 pm.

Every Wednesday & Saturday at 7 am 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 am, visitors can join a naturalist on a guided nature walk that lasts 1 to 2 hours & will introduce them to the riparian ecosystem of Oak Creek & other aspects of the park. Plants, wildlife, geology, history, & archaeology are some of the subjects that may be discussed.

Daily at 2 pm, the park hosts a ranger-or naturalist-led activity of approx. 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.

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 am to 7 pm. Visitor Center hours are 9 am to 6 pm.

The 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 & bicyclists. The Arizona State Parks Annual Pass is available for $50 (some restrictions apply) & Premium Annual Pass is sold for $125.

The unique land-based ecosystem, closely associated with Oak Creek, provides the setting & the opportunity for Red Rock State Park to offer a center for environmental education. With its diverse riparian habitat for plants & wildlife, Red Rock State Park offers special hikes & programs as a regular part of the park's environmental program.