Construction to build a wash crossing in the park will begin the week of October 19, 2026. The project is expected to be completed in May 2027. Park activities will not be impacted, but there will be construction vehicles, noise and workers present on the main road into the park. Please stay tuned for updates as work progresses.
Romero Site Interpretive Hike at Catalina State Park
Catalina State Park
Second and fourth Mondays, through May Times vary
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 thrived in the desert for generations.
For this adventure, you will hike on the Romero Ruins Trail, which is around 0.8-miles long, crosses a seasonal stream, and has a steep staircase. There is no shade on the trail, so please bring plenty of sun protection and water.
Follow signs for “Romero Ruins Trail” (1 mile from the ranger station) and meet at the Romero Ruins Ramada (no restroom on site).
This program is limited to 20-people on a first-come, first-served basis.
2026-2027 Scheduled Hikes
October 12, 2026: 8-9:30 a.m.
October 26, 2026: 8-9:30 a.m.
November 09, 2026: 8-9:30 a.m.
November 23, 2026: 8-9:30 a.m.
December 14, 2026: 8:30-10 a.m.
December 28, 2026: 9-10:30 a.m.
January 11, 2027: 9-10:30 a.m.
January 25, 2027: 9-10:30 a.m.
February 08, 2027: 9-10:30 a.m.
February 22, 2027: 9-10:30 a.m.
March 08, 2027: 8:30-10 a.m.
March 22, 2027: 8:30-10 a.m.
April 12, 2027: 8-9:30 a.m.
April 26, 2027: 8-9:30 a.m.
May 10, 2027: 8-9:30 a.m.
May 24, 2027: 8-9:30 a.m.
MORE EVENTS
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Thursday, October 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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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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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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Oct. 17 | Nov. 7 | Nov. 21
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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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.
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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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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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Sunday, 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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Dec. 11, 2026 | Feb. 13 and Apr. 24, 2027
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!
