Independent Newsmedia
Kartchner Caverns State Park invites the public to attend early evening walks in the park to uncover and learn about some of the 13 different neighboring bat species in the park. Staff will use bat detectors while on a walk through the desert night to see and hear some of the bats while learning about the diversity of these flying mammals, according to a news release.
Go where the public generally doesn’t get to walk. Bring friends and family — registration is required for all — and these items to make the most of the adventure:
•A headlamp or flashlight (black light for children).
• Night vision goggles or equipment.
• Comfortable shoes.
• A personal bat detector, though that’s not essential.
• Plenty of water
The walk will be slightly longer than a half-mile, cave tour and live bat handling not included. The program lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Registration is required. A $15 per-person fee applies. Due to the quiet nature of this walk and the duration, this event is recommended for children age 7 and older.
In the event of inclement weather, the bat walk will be canceled. Refunds or rebooking will be allowed if the walk is canceled.
Arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time as the group will leave the Discovery Center at the start time. Register online at tinyurl.com/4znaw3xu.
The upcoming dates for the bat tour are May 10, 6:45 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.; June 21, 7:15 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.; July 19, 7:15 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.; Aug. 16, 6:45 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.; Sept. 6, 6:15 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.
All tours are led by a trained guide; no self-guided tours are available. Minors under age 18 are not permitted on tours without a parent or guardian. No items (bags, cameras, cell phones, backpack carriers, purses, packs, bottled water, strollers, etc) are allowed into the cave while on tour; however, lockers are available at the park to store these items. Pets are not allowed on any cavern tour. Do not leave pets in vehicles while taking a tour.
Video or photography is not permitted inside the cave with any type of device.
Most areas are dimly lit and some passages may pass through narrow or enclosed areas. This may be difficult for persons with mobility, respiratory or claustrophobia issues.
Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled tour start time.
The Kartchner Caverns story is about amazing discoveries past, present, and future. Most tours are available year-round.
Kartchner Caverns State Park is located along State Route 90, south of Benson and I-10. Learn more at azstateparks.com/kartchner/ or by calling 520-586-4100.
