Do you enjoy watching various types of birds in their natural beauty? Grab your binoculars and your hiking shoes to check out these locations around Tucson. Your ideal location depends on how much time you have to enjoy the birds.
Short Trip
If you don’t have a lot of time, check out Sweetwater Wetlands. This artificial ecosystem is located between I-10 and the Santa Cruz River.
The area is open from sunrise to sunset. No dogs are allowed here. Children are welcome. You cannot ride your bike; however, there are self-guided tours of the property.
Extended Trips
If you’re planning a longer trip into nature, check out Garden Canyon. This awe-inspiring location offers a variety of activities, including hiking and rock climbing. You can also bring off-road vehicles to explore the area.
In terms of birds, the area is popular with various species, such as the painted redstart, Mexican Jay, and Gould’s Turkey. There are also several other types of wildlife besides birds in the area, including snakes, bears, and butterflies.
While you can enjoy a picnic, make sure you clean up afterward. It is also important to note that the canyon is located near an active military base. Fort Huachuca requires visitors to have proper identification to enter the base. United States citizens can obtain a visitor’s pass for the base. However, international visitors can only access the area with military sponsorship.
Remember to remain weather aware and bring the proper supplies and a camera to enjoy your trip.



