Arizona State Parks and Trails is commemorating the 50th anniversary of the discovery of the Kartchner Caverns and the 25th anniversary of the state park this November. The silver and golden anniversaries will be celebrated with a public event recognizing the cave's conservation and park development on November 9, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The day will offer fun children's activities and crafts, conservation exhibitors, and food available for purchase from local food truck vendors. The park will also host educational panels with special speakers on the discovery and state acquisition of Kartchner Caverns, and on the development of the park and conservation efforts from 50 years ago to present day. Panelists featured include former parks staff involved in the park's development, members of the Kartchner and Tufts families, The Nature Conservancy, and current volunteer and staff scientists. A limited number of cave tours are available by advance registration online or by phone at 1-877-MY-PARKS.

In November 1974, Gary Tenen and Randy Tufts were exploring the limestone hills at the eastern base of the Whetstone Mountains. Upon discovering the cave, the two understood its significance and kept it a secret until February 1978 when they told the property owners, James and Lois Kartchner. Together, they developed a plan to protect the cave all while keeping it a secret. In 1985, Tenen, Tufts, and the Kartchners approached Arizona State Parks and Trails to propose the conservation of the cave by development of the state park, which opened on November 5, 1999.

"This anniversary celebration is an opportunity for our agency to recognize and appreciate the efforts of many involved in the preservation of Kartchner Caverns over these last five decades," said Bob Broscheid, executive director of Arizona State Parks and Trails. "Through this event, we also hope to welcome new faces who may be learning for the very first time just how special this state park truly is. We welcome them as the next generation of conservationists who will care for this one-of-a-kind natural resource."

In addition to organized activities of the day, event attendees can explore the park's Discovery Center, which offers interpretive displays on aspects of the cave such as hydrology and history, plus the park's pollinator garden and scenic hiking trails. Find more details about the event, explore the educational exhibitors and event sponsors, get directions to the park, and see facility information at AZStateParks.com/Kartchner.