Nature Journaling at Catalina State park
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. Enjoy a guided nature walk and talk with Elena and Jan, Catalina State Park’s Volunteers and Certified Pima County Master Naturalists. During each 90-minute journaling session you’ll highlight seasonal observations and find opportunities to reflect. Children ages 10 and older are welcome to attend but dogs are not allowed on these walks. Please bring a pen/pencil and journal or notebook to record your findings. Also, please bring a hat, sunscreen, closed-toed walking shoes, and water. Follow signs for “Trail Head” and meet at the Trailhead Picnic Area. This program is weather dependent.
Program dates / Time Vary
October 9, 2026 – 8 AM – 9:30 AM
October 23, 2026 – 8 AM – 9:30 AM
November 13, 2026 – 8:30 AM – 10 AM
November 27, 2026 – 8:30 AM – 10 AM
December 11, 2026 – 8:30 AM – 10 AM
January 8, 2027 – 8:30 AM – 10 AM
January 22, 2027 – 8:30 AM – 10 AM
February 12, 2027 – 8:30 AM – 10 AM
February 26, 2027 – 8:30 AM – 10 AM
March 12, 2027 – 8 AM – 9:30 AM
March 26, 2027 – 8 AM – 9:30 AM
April 9, 2027 – 8 AM – 9:30 AM
April 23, 2027 – 8 AM – 9:30 AM
MORE EVENTS
-
Saturdays, July 4 - September 26
Monsoon Magic
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.
-
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!
-
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.
-
Saturdays, October - April
Saturday Nature Program at Catalina State Park
Learn about the fascinating Sonoran Desert at this family-friendly program featuring live reptiles!
-
First Saturdays of the Month (October-May)
Buffel Slayers
Help eradicate buffelgrass from the park and Save Our Saguaros! Be prepared to work hard!
-
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.
-
Sunday, October 4, 2026
Everyone Runs Trail Race
Challenge yourself to a trail race at your own pace! Multiple race options and packages are available.
-
First and third Mondays, October - April
Catalina State Park - Past, Present, Future
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.
-
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!
-
Sun, Weds and Select Mon, Oct 18 - May 17
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. This is an Outdoors250 event.
-
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.
-
Second and fourth Mondays, through May
Romero Site Interpretive Hike
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.
