Come to Red Rock State Park on Saturday, Sept. 28, at 8:30 a.m. for the Monarch Migration through the park. Nestled in the Red Rock Country of Sedona, Oak Creek provides a flyway for migrating monarchs hurrying to their overwintering grounds each September. Many will stop and consume nectar on nearby plants such as Sunflowers and Golden Crownbeard.
Join the Southwest Monarch Study for an exciting morning of butterfly netting and tagging. This program is an outdoor event, so be ready to be outdoors. Participants should wear sturdy closed-toe shoes that can get wet, no sandals, long pants and long sleeve shirt, hat and sunscreen. Bring sufficient water for hydration. Once registered for this program, participants must complete a liability/photo release form that can be downloaded at swmonarchs.org/upcoming-events.php. This program is included with park entrance fees which are $7 per adult age 14 and over, and $4 per youth ages 7 to 13. However, space is limited to 15 participants, so call 282-6907 to reserve spots.
Also, on Sept. 28, join the Astronomers of Verde Valley for a STAR Party at 6:45 p.m. The dark skies of Red Rock State Park allow visitors to easily see the stream of stars and dark dust lanes with the unaided eye. Through the many telescopes set up for viewing, the famous ring Nebular M57, the show piece of the northern hemisphere, is in prime viewing position. High in the sky will be the summer triangle, Altair, Deneb and Vega, each of which is the brightest star of its constellation. The gas giant planets of Jupiter and Saturn will be on display in all their splendor plus many more.
Cookies, “moon juice” and other complimentary beverages will be provided. Attendance is limited and reservations are required. The program will wrap up by 9:30 p.m. This event is sponsored by Keep Sedona Beautiful; Visit keepsedonabeautiful.org/.
A $5 program fee per person is required in addition to the park’s regular admission fees of $7 per adult age 14 and up, and $4 per youth age 7 to 13. Children up to age 6 are admitted free. To make reservations, call 282-6907.
Every morning a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk at 10 a.m., informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk include geology, wildlife, history, archaeology and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. This guided walk is included with park entrance fees. No reservations are required.
Every Wednesday and Saturday, bird enthusiasts can join a naturalist for a guided walk at 8 a.m. appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. No reservations are necessary. The greatest diversity of bird species can be found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area because of the many species that live or visit here. Please meet up with the leader on the viewing deck above the Visitor Center. Those birding on their own will find the Hummingbird Patio with bird feeding stations is an excellent spot to start a tour. Another good viewing point is the Visitor Center roof.
Red Rock State Park is located at 4050 Red Rock Loop Road. Call 282-6907 for information.
