Nature Programs
Westward Look's nature programs highlight the magic of the Sonoran desert. This unique ecosystem has been home to a diversity of hearty plants, animals and humans for thousands of years. Our nature programs encourage guests to experience this rare environment for themselves.
The 80-acre grounds of Westward Look Resort beg to be explored. Here's a sampling of some desert delights that frequently awe and inspire our guests:
- Grab a nature trail map and interpretive guide and stroll either the Saguaro or Hummingbird trails
- Start your day with birdsong and desert breezes. Sign up for our early-morning guided Nature Walk.
- Find out how native peoples harvest the fruit of the giant saguaro, make rope from the agave and weave baskets from willow and devil's claw in the Tinaja Desert Gallery. Examine colorful minerals, dried gourds and other artifacts of this region. Relax on the rooftop patio and enjoy views of the four mountain ranges surrounding Tucson.
- Smell the sage. Taste the chilies. Watch the hummingbirds. The colorful Butterfly and Hummingbird Garden attracts desert pollinators. The Chef's Garden features herbs, chilies and produce native to the Southwest. Take a Chef’s Garden Tour on Saturdays and learn about and how to cook with native ingredients.
- Stargaze through our high-powered Celestron 2000 telescope. Find out why Tucson's night skies make this a center for astronomy.
- Stop by the front desk for a pair of binoculars and a birding guide. Take a closer look at our birds and wildlife.
- Go hiking on property or in nearby Pima Canyon. Try mountain biking. Backpacks, bikes, helmets, maps, even tour guides are available.
- Get extreme with rock climbing, gliding, jeep tours, caving, mine tours and hot-air balloons.
- Ride the range the way the cowboys did. Horseback rides are offered several times a day.
- Share your own desert experiences in our Discovery Journal - or read about recent animal sightings or amazing plant blooms that other guests have seen.
- Relax by the fire in the resort's original homestead living room, built in 1912. The Watson’s' adobe-style home featured ocotillo-ribbed ceilings, wrought-iron chandeliers, hardwood floors and stone hearth. Located just off the resort lobby, this inviting room is steeped in Western history.
