Birding the De Anza Trail at Clark Crossing

January 12- Thursday, 8:00 AM – De Anza Trail at Clark Crossing

Trip difficulty: Moderate, 2 miles on dirt paths with potentially muddy conditions, uneven terrain. No facilities on trail, however restrooms are available at the NHP Visitors Center after its 9:00 am opening time.

The Santa Cruz River’s riparian gallery forest along the De Anza Trail represents one of SE Arizona’s best birding opportunities. Especially in winter, the Santa Cruz River is a great habitat for lingering winter migrants and the occasional wandering rarity.

While many know of the Tubac Bridge and Santa Gertrudis Lane areas, the relatively less-birded Clark Crossing access to the Trail in Carmen gives us another opportunity to explore this superb bird habitat. Located on the I-19 east frontage road just south of Tubac and north of the Tumacacori National Historic Park, Clark Crossing is not marked at all, but does have ample parking. Click on the hyperlink for exact location – use I-19 exit 34 for access. Final meeting instructions will be emailed to registered participants.

Due to the birding being along a forest path, trip is limited to eight people. Be prepared for muddy conditions! As time and interest permit, we may proceed to Santa Gertrudis Lane to fill out the morning.

Leader: Scott Crabtree

Registration for this trip is free. Register here beginning Dec 10, 7:00 AM.

Header Image: Black-throated Gray Warbler by Shawn Cooper