Take Your RV To Red Rock Country
Moonlight Hikes Are Back At Red Rock State Park In May

In May, Sedona offers the perfect weather to enjoy the outdoors with the entire family.

The Moonlight Hikes are back and begin on Tuesday, May 1. There will also be hikes Wednesday, May 2, Wednesday, May 30 and Thursday, May 31.

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.

Hikes leave promptly from the Visitor Center at 6:30 p.m. Wear appropriate hiking shoes and bring water and a flashlight.

On Sunday, May 6, Susan Ruble, administrative director of the High Country Raptors, will bring her live bird of prey program to Red Rock State Park. Ruble, state and federally licensed master falconer and wildlife rehabilitator, specializing in birds of prey, will present a program focusing on natural history, biology and conservation.

Enjoy the unique opportunity to view the birds close-up and talk to the handlers one-on-one. High Country Raptors is a non-profit organization licensed by Arizona Game and Fish and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The presentation will be at 2 p.m. at the Twin Cypress Ramada.

On Sunday, May 13 at 2 p.m., visitors can join a volunteer on a guided geology hike through Red Rock State Park. Learn why the rocks are red, where they came from, where they are going and more.

This hike includes the Eagles Nest Trail for a great view of the park and surrounding area. More than just a guided hike, this is an interpretive experience for the beginner as well as the advanced geologist.

Spend an afternoon with our knowledgeable volunteer guide as he explains the rock formations that create the scenic backdrop of Red Rock State Park. This will be the last geology hike of the season. Hikes will resume in September.

Wednesdays and Saturdays at 8 a.m. 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.

At 10 a.m. daily, visitors can join a naturalist on a guided nature walk that lasts 1˝ to 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.

At 2 p.m. daily, the park hosts a ranger-or naturalist-led activity of approximately one-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 information or reservations 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 8 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 $45 (some restrictions apply) and Premium Annual Pass is sold for $100.

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 www.azstateparks.com.