San Pedro River Sierra Vista, AZ (part of Tucson Guide)

The San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area is one of the few remaining river ecosystems in Southern Arizona that has remained intact. Even though it has shrunk considerably over the past decades due to climatic and environmental changes, the river still hosts an amazing variety of wildlife, including 300 species of migrating and wintering birds. Start your hike at the place where the river meets AZ Highway 90 between Sierra Vista and Bisbee, about 1 1/2 hours southeast of Tucson. Access is free, but a small donation is requested. Info and souvenirs are available at the gift store.