PHOENIX – This Earth Day, celebrate at Oracle State Park with a full day of activities and a ribbon-cutting for the new features along the popular Geology Trail.

Oracle State Park is a 4,000-acre wildlife refuge just north of Tucson and has more than 24 miles of trails to experience, including connectors to the Arizona Trail and four miles of the Arizona National Scenic Trail. The park is Arizona’s first International Dark Sky Park and also features the historic Kannally Ranch House, which has history of 1900s ranchers and artisans.

Earth Day events will start with a bird walk at 7:30 a.m., followed by a geology hike, several talks, music on the trail and culminating with a Dark Sky Star Party. At 4:15, there will be a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new features of the Geology Trail. Food trucks will be available from 1-7 p.m. The event is free with park entrance.

In 2022, Oracle State Park opened the 1.2-mile Geology Trail, which winds through igneous intrusions, mineral deposits, bedrock pediment, and alluvial fans that showcase the past 1.7 billion years of geologic history. The trail offers unobstructed views of the volcanic Galiuro Mountains, the Santa Catalina Mountains, and the San Pedro Valley. Now, new reference markers and interpretive signs will showcase the diverse geology and history of the area and explain the history for hikers. The president of Friends of Oracle State Park and the park geologist will be on site to speak about the upgrades.

WHAT: Ribbon-cutting ceremony for Geology Trail upgrades and Earth Day activities

WHERE: Oracle State Park

WHEN: April 22, 2023, ribbon cutting at 4:15 p.m.

Managing and conserving Arizona's natural, cultural and recreational resources for the benefit of the people, both in our parks and through our partners.

For information about the more than 30 Arizona state parks and natural areas, trails, Off-Highway Vehicle Program, and the State Historic Preservation Office, call 1-877-MY-PARKS or visit azstateparks.com.

PRESS CONTACT: Michelle Thompson at (480) 589-8877 - Email: pio@azstateparks.gov