Catalina State Park - Past, Present, Future
Catalina State Park
First and third Mondays, October - April 10 a.m.
Catalina State Park has been beloved for decades by many but do you know how the park came to be? Explore the history of Catalina State Park and its surroundings from the 1850s to today. Take a “behind-the-scenes” look at today’s operations and get a “sneak peek” at exciting new upgrades coming to the park. Follow signs for “Trail Head” and meet at the Trailhead Picnic Area.
This program is weather-dependent. This program is held on the first and third Mondays from October through April; there will be no program on Monday, January 18, 2027.
2026-2027 Program Dates
| October 5, 2026 |
| October 19, 2026 |
| November 2, 2026 |
| November 16, 2026 |
| December 7, 2026 |
| December 21, 2026 |
| January 4, 2027 |
| February 1, 2027 |
| February 15, 2027 |
| March 1, 2027 |
| March 15, 2027 |
| April 5, 2027 |
| April 19, 2027 |
MORE EVENTS
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Thursdays, October 8 and 15, 2026
Native Plant Walk
As part of this adventure, you'll get to stroll through gorgeous desert native grasslands highlighted with cacti and desert bushes and trees. Descend into Romero Canyon to see a unique riparian array of grasses, trees and various flowering plants.
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2nd and 4th Fridays, October 9, 2026 - April 23, 2027
Nature Journaling at Catalina State Park
Learn the practices of Nature Journaling through focused observations of the flora, fauna and geology while connecting to the beauty of Catalina State Park.
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Oct 10 | Dec 11 | Feb 13 | Apr 24
Star Party at Catalina State Park
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!
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Saturdays (September-October)
Introduction to Birding by Ear
Listen for birds, learn their common sounds, and grow familiar with your local birdlife. All skill levels are welcome!
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First, Third and Fifth Fridays of the Month
Catalina Nights
Experience Catalina State Park’s desert wildlife and dark skies with a one-mile, guided hike on the Nature Trail. Registration required.
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Saturdays, starting October 17, 2026 (weather permitting)
Saturday Nature Program at Catalina State Park
Learn about the fascinating Sonoran Desert at this family-friendly program featuring live reptiles!
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Oct. 3 | Oct. 17 | Nov. 7
Music in the Mountains Concert Series
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.
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Sundays, Wednesdays and select Mondays, Oct. 18, 2026 - May 17, 2027
Guided Bird Walks at Catalina
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.
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Sundays - check dates in description
Sunday Geology Walk at Catalina
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.
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First Saturdays, monthly (November - May)
Buffel Slayers at Catalina State Park
Help eradicate buffelgrass from the park and Save Our Saguaros! Be prepared to work hard!
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Sundays, October 4 and November 8, 2026
Everyone Runs Trail Race at Catalina State Park
Challenge yourself to a trail race at your own pace! Multiple race options and packages are available. Registration is required.
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Second and fourth Mondays, through May
Romero Site Interpretive Hike at Catalina State Park
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.
