Birding Excursion: Chiricahua Mountains with Luke Safford & Donito Burgess

September 25th-27th, 2026

Trip Difficulty: Moderate. No long hikes, but some short hikes, at elevation, on dirt/gravel roads and trails with uneven footing.

Perhaps the most well-known of the sky island mountain ranges, the Chiricahua Mountains are a region in themselves, ranging from semi-desert grassland and arid Chihuahuan desertscrub to forests of Engelmann spruce and alpine fir. The size of this mountain range and its proximity to the Sierra Madres in Mexico contribute to its diversity. On this three-day trip, we’ll explore the variety of habitats found here and many of the bird species that inhabit this famous hotspot of avian diversity.

This is one of only two places in the U.S. to find Mexican Chickadee, and the most reliable and easy to access. Other species we can hope to see include Montezuma Quail, Band-tailed Pigeon, Coppery-tailed Trogon, Northern Pygmy Owl, Hepatic Tanager, Olive Warbler, and Townsend Warblers. We’ll make a stop in Willcox at Cochise Lake as well to take a quick look for migrating waterfowl and shorebirds.

Your registration fee includes lodging at the Portal Peak Lodge Store & Cafe, transportation, breakfast on Saturday and Sunday, lunch on Friday and Saturday, and snacks throughout all three days—so you can stay energized and focused on the birds. Participants will be responsible for their own dinners on Friday and Saturday evenings.

With options for single or double occupancy and member and non-member pricing, this trip offers both convenience and value while supporting Tucson Bird Alliance’s conservation and community programs.

The Chiricahuas combine the breathtaking scenery of three major canyons with many unique birdwatching opportunities. Join Luke Safford and Donito Burgess to explore this sky island jewel.

Leaders: Luke Safford and Donito Burgess

Fee: $750 members / $900 non-members for double occupancy – 2 SPOTS LEFT! (double occupancy)

**No refunds will be issued after August 25th, 2026**

Trip includes transportation, lodging, and all meals except dinners, as well as the services of your skilled leaders.

Header image: Montezuma Quail by Greg Lavaty