Outdoors250

Celebrate Outside!

Outdoors250 is more than a celebration of the nation’s 250th birthday...it’s an invitation to get outside, try something new, and reconnect with Mother Nature through outdoor recreation. We’ve made it easy to join the fun. Just choose your adventure path below and sign up to potentially win prizes for enjoying the outdoor fun.

We have a ton of great options available, from guided trail excursions to immersive birding experiences and more, plus, Outdoors250 offers a wide range of outdoor events happening across Arizona. Explore Birding250 and Trails250 to find activities that spark your interest and match your sense of adventure. Whether you’re interested in discovering a new pastime or returning to a favorite outdoor activity, there’s something for everyone here.

Events begin January 1, with new and exciting opportunities added regularly…so check back often! Outdoors250 runs through July 4, 2026, and signing up makes you eligible for prize packs and outdoor-themed events. Start the new year on the right foot and step outside with Outdoors250!

Event Options

Explore the event options below to find the experiences that best match your interests and sense of adventure, then sign up to participate and become eligible for exciting prizes. Events are offered throughout the state, making it easy to discover something fun close to home or plan a memorable outdoor escape farther afield. With opportunities designed for a range of skill levels and interests, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. New events are added regularly, so check back often to see what’s coming next.

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Birding250...What is it and how can you participate?

Even if you just think birds are pretty cool, we’ve got something for you! Join us and other Arizona agencies, along with the Merlin Bird ID app, Vortex Optics, and Arizona’s premier birder and best-selling birding author Richard Cachor Taylor in celebrating Arizona’s rich birding heritage as part of the national America250 celebration.

With more than 500 bird species calling Arizona home or passing through on migration, our state is one of the top birding destinations in the country. Thanks to our great weather, you can enjoy birding year-round throughout the state in a variety of breathtaking habitats.

Now’s your chance to be part of Arizona’s biggest birding initiative ever! Explore the outdoors, enjoy the sights and sounds of Arizona’s incredible birds, and you’ll be automatically entered to win some amazing birding-related prizes.

It’s so easy to get started.

Step 1 (Click below to sign up and be eligible for prizes)

Click to Sign Up

Step 2 (Get the App)

Download the Merlin Bird ID app (Note: use the same email address you used to register)

     

Step 3 (Go Birding!)

Get outside and start finding birds with the help of your fun new FREE birding tool! Click below to find a birding event or take a look at this birding resource for inspiration.

Merlin Bird ID App

The Merlin Bird ID app is your go-to tool for identifying birds all across Arizona. Whether you're hiking in the Sonoran desert, exploring a riparian area, or just relaxing in your own backyard, Merlin uses location-based data to show you which birds are most likely nearby and helps you identify them by sound or sight in seconds. By using the app during the Birding250 celebration, your bird discoveries will help highlight Arizona’s incredible biodiversity while strengthening your connection to the outdoors. The Merlin app is easy, fun, and designed with everyone in mind whether you're brand new to birding or a lifelong enthusiast. Download the app and start birding! It’s never been this easy to find a new passion! 

Prize Packs

Grand Prize (one winner) Must record 50+ bird sightings in the Merlin app to qualify for the grand prize drawing.

  • Two day guided birding trip in Portal, Arizona with renowned Arizona bird guide and author Richard Cachor Taylor (Rick). Winner is responsible for lodging and transportation to Portal, AZ. 
  • Autographed copy of Rick's book Birds of Arizona, 2nd edition
  • One pair Vortex Diamondback 8x42 binoculars

First Place (one winner). Must record 25+ bird sightings in the Merlin app to qualify for the first place drawing.

  • Two-night cabin stay at Arizona’s best birding park Patagonia Lake State Park! 
  • Autographed copy of Rick's book Birds of Arizona, 2nd edition
  • One pair Vortex Diamondback 8x42 binoculars

Second Place (three winners). Must record 10+ bird sightings in the Merlin app to qualify for the first place drawing.

  • Autographed copy of Rick's book Birds of Arizona, 2nd edition
  • One pair Vortex Diamondback 8x42 binoculars

Registration Prize Drawing (25 winners) You’ll be automatically entered to win when you sign up for the event and download the Merlin Bird ID app. 

  • Autographed copy of Rick's book Birds of Arizona, 2nd edition

Richard Cachor Taylor

Richard Cachor Taylor is one of Arizona’s most respected birding experts and a lifelong resident southeastern Arizona. He’s the author of several essential birding guides, including Birds of Arizona, 2nd edition,the most comprehensive field guide in the state and Birds of Southeastern Arizona, 10th edition, and is known for his groundbreaking work on the coppery-tailed trogon and the first U.S. sighting of the elusive eared quetzal. As the founder of Borderland Tours, Rick has guided birders through Arizona’s most spectacular habitats for over four decades. His deep knowledge, passion for birds, and gift for storytelling have inspired thousands to connect with Arizona’s incredible avian diversity.

Vortex Optics

Vortex Optics is helping you see Arizona’s birds like never before. Whether you're scanning distant ridgelines for bald eagles or watching warblers flit through the trees, a great pair of binoculars brings every bird into sharper focus. To celebrate Birding 250, Vortex has generously donated five pairs of high-quality binoculars giving participants a chance to win gear trusted by birders and outdoor enthusiasts around the world. Lightweight, durable, and crystal-clear, Vortex binoculars make your birding experience even more rewarding. Spot more birds, see more detail, and elevate every Arizona birding adventure with Vortex by your side.

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What is Trails250?

Trails250 is a statewide outdoor challenge celebrating our nation’s 250th anniversary by encouraging residents and visitors to get outside and explore the wide variety of trails our state has to offer. From scenic desert paths to forested mountain adventures, Trails250 invites people of all abilities to discover Arizona’s trails on foot, on a mountain bike, or behind the wheel of an off-highway vehicle.

This exciting initiative is part of the larger Outdoors250 series, designed to build connection to place, promote healthy outdoor activity, and highlight the epic outdoor recreation opportunities available throughout Arizona’s state parks and public lands statewide.

How Can You Participate?

Anyone can take part in Trails250! Participation is easy…Explore at your own pace, or join guided events to connect with like minded outdoor lovers while deepening your connection to the natural world through outdoor recreation. Explore the following trail options, then sign up for a chance to win a variety of awesome outdoor-themed prizes! 

Click below to sign up and be eligible for prizes

Click to Sign Up

Guided Hikes

Join ranger-led or volunteer-guided hikes on trails throughout Arizona’s state parks. These hikes are suitable for a variety of experience levels and offer an opportunity to learn about local ecology, history, and trail stewardship while exploring beautiful landscapes on foot.

First Day Hikes – January 1, 2026 (19 Statewide Locations)
View all First Day Hikes

Guided Mountain Bike Rides

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just getting started, our guided mountain bike rides introduce you to some of the best singletrack and multi-use trails in the state. Ride with experienced guides, meet fellow cyclists, and enjoy the freedom of exploring Arizona’s terrain on two wheels.

Check back soon for exciting MTB trail opportunities.

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Off-Highway Vehicle “Show Me” Rides

Participate in OHV-friendly riding opportunities with our trained OHV Ambassador volunteers. These “Show Me” rides are designed to help riders new to the area (or new to OHVs) discover great routes safely and responsibly. Learn trail etiquette, connect with the off-highway vehicle community, and enjoy guided exploration across Arizona’s diverse landscapes.

Prize Packs

Check back soon for a list of awesome prizes you can win just for participating in a Trials250 event!

Get Started

To participate in Trails250, simply find a hike, ride, or event that fits your schedule and sign up! Whether you choose a guided outing or head out on your own, every trail you explore brings you closer to celebrating Arizona’s 250 years of outdoor heritage.

About the America250 Celebration

Outdoors250 is proud to be part of America250, a nationwide initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States and reflecting on our shared history, values, and future. In Arizona, these efforts come together under Arizona250, led by the Arizona Secretary of State’s Office, which is coordinating a wide range of programs, events, and educational opportunities across the state. Outdoors250 supports this vision by encouraging Arizonans to connect with the land, celebrate our natural heritage, and participate in meaningful outdoor experiences. Learn more about Arizona250 and explore additional initiatives taking place statewide by visiting the Arizona250 website.

 

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