Nature & the Outdoors, Active Mind & Body   

How many times have you hiked with a group, then found yourself 50 yards behind after ten minutes? This group is NOT for beginners. You should feel comfortable hiking 2-5 miles with intermittent elevation gains, but at a leisurely pace with time to take in the scenery. We'll cover trails of low to moderate difficulty and varying conditions.

Join us on moderate hikes of up to 5 miles on rocky, sometimes steep terrain, experience the beauty and diversity of some of the many trails in our area. You will need to be in good physical condition and accustomed to hiking at higher elevations and temperatures. Wear a hat and sunscreen and bring plenty of water and hiking poles. For comfort and enjoyment, wear comfortable boots and dress in layers appropriate for the weather.

Our bodies are our vehicles throughout life. As they change with time, physical issues and limitations we need to honor them exactly where they are each day. We will establish a strong body awareness with slow controlled movements focusing on balance, lengthening in the spine, symmetry, coordination, flexibility and building core strength. Wear comfortable loose-fitting clothes. This is a beginner/intermediate level class. Please contact facilitator if you have had recent surgery. Please Note: This class skips a week for Labor Day 9/7.

Our bodies are our vehicles throughout life. As they change with time, physical issues and limitations we need to honor them exactly where they are each day. We will establish a strong body awareness with slow controlled movements focusing on balance, lengthening in the spine, symmetry, coordination, flexibility and building core strength. Wear comfortable loose-fitting clothes. This is a beginner/intermediate level class. Please contact facilitator if you have had recent surgery.

We share remarkable places and their stories selected from over 7,000 miles of day hikes in over 430 National Park Service units. Against the backdrop of striking scenery and rapidly evolving history, we consider the national park system’s current value, relevancy and challenges.

Novice birdwatchers will learn how to find and identify birds in the Verde Valley. Understand why certain birds live in specific habitats, and why they are so rich in birds. The ecological concepts of habitat diversity and adaptation provide a window into why Arizona is such a fabulous place to see and learn about birds. Gain practical tips on equipment, reference books, apps and techniques for seeing more birds in your yard or the great outdoors.