Red Rock State Park invites everyone to a Star Party with the Astronomers of Verde Valley on Saturday, June 1, at 7:30 p.m. Under the dark skies of Red Rock State Park, the Summer Milky Way will be starting to make its way across the night sky.
The planet Mars will be high in the sky. The easily recognizable constellations of Ursa Major, the Big Dipper and Ursa Minor, the Little Dipper will be riding high in the northern sky. The Great Globular Cluster in Hercules, which contains 300,000 stars, will be in full view. For those who like galaxies, the galaxy rich constellations of Whirlpool M51 and Bodes M82 will be in prime viewing position for the telescopes set up for viewing these night sky wonders. This event is sponsored by Keep Sedona Beautiful.
Cookies, “moon juice”, and other complimentary beverages will be provided. Attendance is limited and reservations are required. The program will wrap up by 10 p.m.. A $5 reservation fee per person is required in addition to the parks regular admission fees of $7 per adult ages 14 and up, and $4 per youth age 7 to 13. Children age 6 and under are admitted free. To make reservations, call 282-6907.
Specters of the Past: Arizona Ghost Towns will be presented Sunday, June 2, at 2 p.m.
The promise of unimagined riches is what brought many of the earliest colonizers to the Arizona territory. Following the trail to the discovery of the mother lode, they built, then dismantled and finally abandoned communities when mines played out — leaving behind tantalizing clues of difficult hardships. Some towns survived like Jerome, Bisbee, Tombstone and Oatman. Most disappeared, gradually becoming absorbed back into the desert from which they arose. This presentation explores more than a decade of historian Jay Mark’s journeys to these fascinating ghost places, along with their stories — long-forgotten places like Charleston, Contention City, Mowry, Fairbank, Gleeson and Congress.
Historian Jay Mark’s career includes antiques and bookstore owner, commercial photography, professional theater, radio and television. He brings a lifetime of knowledge and experience to his lively and engaging presentations. A regular contributor of history-related articles to the Antique Register, Arizona Contractor and Community, and The Arizona Republic, Mark is also a published writer of seven antiques-related books. He is co-author of a history of the Buckhorn Baths in Mesa. A recipient of numerous awards honoring his service to the community, Jay remains actively engaged in issues relating to historic preservation, history museums, public transportation, urban planning and public policy.
This lecture is included with park entrance fees. However, seating is limited and reservations are required. Call 282- 6907 to reserve seats in the theater. This lecture is sponsored by Arizona Humanities, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and the Arizona affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
On Sunday, June 16, the Park will host a Full Moon Hike at 6 p.m. The Moonlight Hike is among the most popular interpretive hikes at Red Rock State Park. Led by a naturalist, it gives hikers the rare opportunity to enjoy the sunset and moon rise from an overlook and return by the light of the moon, while also having the chance to learn about Sedona and the surrounding areas. Verde Valley and park history, as well as archaeology, geology, botany and riparian wildlife information, are also possible topics offered by a knowledgeable guide.
The hike lasts two to 22 hours and covers a distance of approximately two miles. A $5 registration fee is required to reserve a spot on the hike, as well as the Park’s entry fee. Rangers ask hikers to please arrive approximately 30 minutes before the starting time to ensure participation. Program fees are non-refundable unless the park must cancel the hike after arrival. Prepare for cool nights by wearing suitable clothing and closed toe shoes, bring water, and a flashlight. Reservations are required. Call 282-6907 to reserve a spot.
Every day, at 10 a.m., a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk 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 walks are held at 8 a.m. Bird enthusiasts can join a naturalist for a guided walk 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 [IBA] 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 your tour. Another good viewing point is the visitor center roof.
Red Rock State Park is located at 4050 Red Rock Loop Road in Sedona; call 282- 6907 for information. Admission is $7 per person for those ages 14 and over, and $4 each for children ages 7 to 13. Children age 6 and under are admitted free.
