Birding Weekend Getaway: Patagonia, AZ & Madera Canyon
Details
This Meetup event is to coordinate the planning of a weekend birding trip to Patagonia, Arizona and Madera Canyon, two of Southeastern Arizona’s birding hotspots. This trip will line up with spring migration and the beginning of mating season for the Coppery-tailed Trogon in Madera Canyon.
Travel, lodging, and meals are the responsibility of each individual, but we’ll coordinate as a group on general plans, meet-up locations, and birding spots. Everyone is welcome to join for all or just select parts of the weekend. Carpooling and shared lodging are encouraged but completely optional.
If you are interested or planning to attend, please fill out the interest form below so we can coordinate plans and logistics. Even if you are unsure at the moment, you can add your name to the list. We will virtually meet in March to work out the details.
**Interest Form: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EVHN6ecOy7rbG2s39JlCPqcD2cjgbcVUpcq7627gA3I/edit?usp=sharing**https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EVHN6ecOy7rbG2s39JlCPqcD2cjgbcVUpcq7627gA3I/edit?usp=sharing
## Lodging (Optional Group Stay)
Grace and Scott have rented a house near Patagonia, AZ and are opening it up to anyone who would like to stay together.
- 3 bedroom / 2.5 bath house
- Available: 1 private bedroom (1 queen bed): $225
- Available: 1 shared bedroom (2 queens + twin sofa bed): $225 total, split between those interested in the shared room
If you’re interested in staying at the house, please text Grace at 540-597-8712. Staying at the group lodging is optional and limited. Participants are welcome to arrange their own accommodations at local campgrounds or hotels nearby.
## Proposed Itinerary
### Friday – May 1
- Drive to the Patagonia area after work
- Stop for dinner along the way, likely near Tucson
- Evening arrival and settle into lodging near Patagonia
### Saturday – May 2
Morning – Afternoon
- Patagonia Lake State Park birding trail ($25/vehicle of 4 people)
- Sonoita Creek / Patagonia Preserve Nature Conservancy ($8/person)
- Audubon’s Paton Center for Hummingbirds (free)
Evening
- Dinner in Patagonia or nearby (we’ll decide closer to the date based on group interest)
- Overnight in the Patagonia area
### Sunday – May 3
Morning
- Morning birding at Madera Canyon
- Focus on canyon trails and picnic areas
- Hoping for sightings of the Coppery-tailed Trogon
Afternoon
- Head back to Phoenix
## Flexibility
- Participants are welcome to join any portion of the weekend
- Birding locations will vary in terrain; most stops include maintained trails and roadside birding options
- Extra binoculars and spotting scopes will be available
This is a relaxed, inclusive weekend focused on great birds, good company, and enjoying some of the best habitats Arizona has to offer. Please text Grace if you have questions.