Programs & Events
Catalina State Park
Monsoon Magic
Saturdays, July 4 - September 26
7:00 - 9:00 a.m.
Did you know Arizona actually has five seasons? Monsoon Magic is an interactive nature exhibit where you’ll learn about the wildlife and meteorology of the southwest’s rainy season.
Introduction to Birding by Ear
Saturdays (September-October)
7 a.m.
Listen for birds, learn their common sounds, and grow familiar with your local birdlife. All skill levels are welcome!
Catalina Nights
First, Third and Fifth Fridays of the Month
Varies by Date
Experience Catalina State Park’s desert wildlife and dark skies with a one-mile, guided hike on the Nature Trail. Registration required.
Saturday Nature Program at Catalina State Park
Saturdays, October - April
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Learn about the fascinating Sonoran Desert at this family-friendly program featuring live reptiles!
Music in the Mountains Concert Series
Oct. 3 | Oct. 17 | Nov. 7
varies by event
Celebrate Arizona’s vibrant music scene with a breathtaking view of the mountains! Please bring a chair, and feel free to bring food, drinks, and your best dance moves.
Everyone Runs Trail Race
Sunday, October 4, 2026
6 a.m.
Challenge yourself to a trail race at your own pace! Multiple race options and packages are available.
Catalina State Park - Past, Present, Future
First and third Mondays, October - April 10 a.m.
Join one of our park volunteers to explore the history of Catalina State Park and its surroundings from the 1850s to today, and get a sneak peek of exciting upgrades planned.
Nature Journaling at Catalina State park
2nd & 4th Fridays, October 9 - April 23
Times vary
Learn the practices of Nature Journaling through focused observations of the flora, fauna and geology while connecting to the beauty of Catalina State Park.
Star Party at Catalina State Park
Oct 10 | Dec 11 | Feb 13 | Apr 24
Varies by Date
Imagine what you can see with telescopes provided by the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association at Catalina State Park! Join us for an exciting, educational Star Party!
Guided Bird Walks at Catalina
Sun, Weds and Select Mon, Oct 18 - May 17
Times vary
Located in the Tucson Sky Islands Important Bird Area, Catalina State Park is home to 150+ species of birds. Experienced birding guides will help you spot and identify beautiful birds as you walk through the park for 3-4 hours. This is an Outdoors250 event.
Sunday Geology Walk at Catalina
Sundays - check dates in description Times vary
How were the Santa Catalina Mountains formed? What are some of the different rocks in the park? Learn about the geology of the park with experienced geologist, Karen.
Buffel Slayers
First Saturdays of the Month (October-May)
8 a.m. - noon
Help eradicate buffelgrass from the park and Save Our Saguaros! Be prepared to work hard!
Romero Site Interpretive Hike
Second and fourth Mondays, through May
7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
Join local guides for a tour of the Romero site and walk through 1000-years of indigenous Hohokam history in 90-minutes! Learn about the area’s ranching history and how the Hohokam made a living in the desert. The Romero Ruins Trail has stairs and crosses a seasonal stream; be prepared to walk in ankle-deep water. There are no restrooms on-site. There is no shade on the trail so please bring plenty of water and sun protection like a hat and an umbrella. Limited to 20 people: first come, first served. Meet at the Romero Ruins Ramada. This is an Outdors250 event.
