The Ramsey Canyon Preserve, managed by the Nature Conservancy and located within the Upper San Pedro Ecosystem in southeastern Arizona, is renowned for its outstanding scenic beauty and the diversity of its plant and animal life. The occurrence of up to 14 species of hummingbirds is one of the many highlights of that diversity. These qualities result from a unique interplay of geology, biogeography, topography, and climate.
The canyon is also home to more than 400 species of plants, from tiny mosses to towering firs. Water-loving plants, such as sycamores, maples, and columbines, line the banks of Ramsey Creek, often growing within a few feet of cacti, yucca, and agaves. Communities ranging from semi-desert grassland to pine-fir forest are found within the vicinity.
More than 170 species of birds are found in the preserve and surrounding national forest. Southwestern specialties such as painted redstarts and magnificent hummingbirds share the canyon with many other animals, including mountain lions, canyon tree frogs, four species of rattlesnakes, and dozens of species of butterflies. |
| Elevation: |
5,200 feet (in the canyon) to 9,466 feet (at Miller Peak) |
| Fees: |
General Admission: $5.00, good for seven days from the date of purchase; free admission for children under 16; Nature Conservancy and Cochise County residents: $3.00; an
Annual Pass is available for $25.00. |
| Hours: |
From March through August, the Preserve is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. From September through February, the Preserve is closed Tuesday and Wednesday; Thursday through Monday, the hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Preserve is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Years Day. |
| Directions: |
Ramsey Canyon Preserve is located 90 miles southeast of Tucson, and 10 miles south of the city of Sierra Vista. From I-10, exit on Highway 90 (Sierra Vista/Ft Huachuca exit) and travel approximately 30 miles to Sierra Vista. Continue south on Highway 92 another 6 miles to Ramsey Canyon Road. Turn right (west) on Ramsey Canyon Road, and follow four miles to the end. Get directions from MapQuest.
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| Coordinates: |
Map Coordinates (NAD83): 31 26.769N; 110 18.736W. |
| Regulations: |
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| Precautions: |
- Preserve parking is limited to 23 spaces. These spaces are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. As there is no parking allowed along the public road below the Preserve, it is recommended that you do not arrive before the opening time. The small parking area cannot accommodate RVs over 20 feet in length.
- Weekday visits are recommended.
- See Backcountry Considerations.
- See Backcountry Emergencies.
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