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Sabino Canyon Field Course

Explore one of the Sonoran Desert's most important watersheds through this full-day field science program.

Step into the role of a field scientist while investigating Sabino Canyon's riparian ecosystem. Students learn how scientists and land managers protect watersheds through restoration, conservation, and long-term monitoring. Through guided, hands-on science, participants explore ecology, geology, and conservation in one of Arizona's most remarkable landscapes.

Hydrology Measurements

Program Overview

The Sabino Canyon Field Course is a one-day immersive field experience that introduces students to the ecology, geology, and hydrology of one of Southern Arizona's most iconic desert canyons. Through guided investigations and hands-on field activities, students explore how water shapes the landscape, supports diverse riparian ecosystems, and influences both natural and human communities. Along the way, participants work alongside Sky School Instructors and scientists from the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Geological Survey, using authentic scientific tools and methods to investigate the watershed while learning about ongoing conservation, habitat restoration, and resource management efforts.

Program Themes

Watersheds & Hydrology
Investigating how water moves through the landscape and sustains desert ecosystems.

Ecology
Exploring the relationships between plants, animals, and their environment within a rare desert riparian habitat.

Geology & Landscape Change
Examining the geologic history of Sabino Canyon and the processes that continue to shape it today.

Conservation & Restoration
Learning how scientists and land managers monitor ecosystem health, restore habitat, and balance recreation with environmental stewardship.

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  • Audience: Elementary, Middle, and High School
  • Group size: 20 minimum (discount for 40+)
  • Location: Sabino Canyon Recreation Area
  • Program length: 4-6 hours
  • Highlights:
    • Guided canyon hike
    • Riparian ecosystem investigation
    • Science skill builders
    • Habitat restoration projects
    • Interaction with professional scientists
 
$70 per student
(Standard)
$55 per student
(Title I)

 

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Fees cover instruction, curricular materials, as well as accommodation and meals for overnight programs on Mt Lemmon. Additional meals and transportation must be provided by the school.

We charge fees that reflect approximately half of the actual cost of running programs. Through generous private donations we have limited scholarship funding available in cases of need. Please contact us at skyschool@arizona.edu for more information.