Fodor's Expert Review Ramsey Canyon Preserve

Sierra Vista Fodor's Choice

Managed by the Nature Conservancy, Ramsey Canyon Preserve marks the convergence of two mountain and desert systems: this spot is the northernmost limit of the Sierra Madre and the southernmost limit of the Rockies, and it's at the edge of the Chihuahuan and Sonoran deserts. Visitors to this world-famous bird-watching hot spot train their binoculars skyward hoping to catch a glimpse of some of the preserve's most notable inhabitants. Painted redstarts nest here, and 14 magnificent species of hummingbird, the jewels of this pristine habitat, congregate from spring through autumn. Even for nonbirders, the beauty of the canyon makes this a destination in its own right. The rare stream-fed, sycamore-maple riparian corridor provides a lush contrast to the desert highlands at the base of the mountains. Guided hikes along the half-mile trail begin at 9 Monday, Thursday, and Saturday from March through November. Stop at the visitor center for maps and books on the area's natural history, flora,... READ MORE

Managed by the Nature Conservancy, Ramsey Canyon Preserve marks the convergence of two mountain and desert systems: this spot is the northernmost limit of the Sierra Madre and the southernmost limit of the Rockies, and it's at the edge of the Chihuahuan and Sonoran deserts. Visitors to this world-famous bird-watching hot spot train their binoculars skyward hoping to catch a glimpse of some of the preserve's most notable inhabitants. Painted redstarts nest here, and 14 magnificent species of hummingbird, the jewels of this pristine habitat, congregate from spring through autumn. Even for nonbirders, the beauty of the canyon makes this a destination in its own right. The rare stream-fed, sycamore-maple riparian corridor provides a lush contrast to the desert highlands at the base of the mountains. Guided hikes along the half-mile trail begin at 9 Monday, Thursday, and Saturday from March through November. Stop at the visitor center for maps and books on the area's natural history, flora, and fauna. Admission is good for one week.

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Fodor's Choice

Quick Facts

27 Ramsey Canyon Rd.
Hereford, Arizona  85615, USA

520-335–8740

www.nature.org/arizona

Sight Details:
Rate Includes: $8, Thurs.–Mon. 8–5, Closed Tues. and Wed.

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