Hike or walk in the beautiful fall weather of Sedona at Red Rock State Park in October

SEDONA, AZ - (September 27, 2009) - Educational programs, hikes and walks highlight the month of October 2009 at Red Rock State Park.

On Sunday, October 4 at 2 pm in the park theater, NAU Sociologist Professor Janine Schipper will present "Disappearing Desert: The Growth of Phoenix and the Culture of Sprawl." In this presentation, Professor Schipper questions what the Valley of the Sun has become and whether the Sonoran Desert is at risk. This is amid projections that the Colorado River will not be able to supply all of the states that have a claim to it. She also spent months traveling on weekends from Flagstaff to the Salt River Pima reservation, where she spoke to tribal members who remembered when the Salt River flowed before it was diverted, and about how tough choices had to be made to sell land to make room for a freeway. Reservations are recommended, as seating is limited. Program is free with paid $7 park admission.

The Moonlight Hike continues on Sunday, October 4 and Monday, October 5. An unforgettable experience, the hike includes a naturalist-led interpretive presentation along the park's beautiful trails. Enjoy the sunset and moonrise from an overlook and return by the light of the moon. The hike lasts 2 to 2 ½ hours, has an elevation climb of 200-250 feet and covers approximately 2 hours. The hike leaves promptly from the Visitor Center at 5:30pm. Wear appropriate hiking shoes (no sandals) and bring water, a flashlight and insect spray. Please arrive 30 minutes before the hike. No late arrivals will be allowed to join once the hike has commenced. This will be the last hike of the season. Reservations are required. A $2 per person fee will be charged at the time of the reservation. There is also a $7 park entrance fee.

On Sunday, October 11 at 2pm, visitors can join a volunteer on a guided geology hike through Red Rock State Park. Learn why the rocks are red, where they came from, where they are going and more. This hike includes the Eagle's Nest Trail for a great view of the park and surrounding area. More than just a guided hike, this is an interpretive experience for the beginner as well as advanced geologist. The hike lasts for 2 to 2 ½ hours and has a 250-foot elevation climb. Enjoy an afternoon with our knowledgeable volunteer guide as the rock formations that create the scenic backdrop of Red Rock State Park are explained. Bring water and wear suitable shoes or boots. Reservations may be required.

Every Wednesday and Saturday at 8am, visitors will find bird enthusiasts joining a naturalist for a "Guided Bird Walk." Beginners as well as advanced birders are welcome. Rangers recommend visitors bring their own binoculars. A limited number are available for loan from the park.

Daily at 10 a.m., visitors can join a naturalist on a guided nature walk that lasts 1½ to 2 hours and will introduce them to the riparian ecosystem of Oak Creek and other aspects of the park. Plants, wildlife, geology, history and archaeology are some of the subjects that may be discussed.

Daily at 2 p.m., the park hosts either a guest speaker or a ranger/naturalist led activity of approximately 45-minutes. Programs may include a nature-hike, a special presentation or an educational/nature video. This program may be an indoor or outdoor activity.

For more information or reservations call (928) 282-6907. Red Rock State Park is located at 4050 Lower Red Rock Loop in Sedona. Park hours are 8am to 6pm. Visitor Center hours are 9am to 5pm.

Park Entrance Fee is $7 per vehicle for up to 4 adults, each additional adult is charged $2 each. (There is no charge for children). A $2 per person entrance fee applies to pedestrians, equestrians and bicyclists. Arizona State Parks Annual Pass is available for $50 (some restrictions apply).

For more information about the 30 State Parks, statewide hiking opportunities, off-highway vehicle trails, and other outdoor recreational and cultural opportunities in Arizona, call (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703) or visit AZStateParks.com. Follow us on twitter.com/AZStateParks.

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