The outdoors is always open in Tucson. Meeting planners challenged by long-term clients to create new and interesting meetings and to introduce new activities to their meeting programs find Southern Arizona more than up to such challenges. There is a wealth of activity here, all unique to this destination.

Consider a drive up Sky Island Parkway on the northeast side of Tucson. This road takes travelers through five “life zones,” beginning in the desert and ending in a conifer forest at the top of Mount Lemmon, with an elevation of 9,000 feet. This single, 27-mile drive passes through as many life zones as a drive from the Mexican to the Canadian border. Or you might combine a tour and a hike, with a Sabino Canyon tram ride up the 4.5-mile trail and a hike back down.

Spread out over a 500-square-mile valley surrounded by five mountain ranges, Tucson is a fresh-air fan’s dream. National and State Parks and Forests ring the city of Tucson and increase the popularity of hiking. With hundreds of trails, it provides a year-round haven for both hikers and cyclists. The mild winters allow hiking in the lower elevations, and in summer, the trails of the high mountains are perfect getaways. Saguaro National Park offers numerous trails for pedestrians and pedalers that wind between large saguaros. Hiking is possible even in the summer in the early mornings and late afternoons and Mt. Lemmon offers cool summer hiking through pine-tree forests. Most of the bike shops in town rent mountain bikes, even for groups.

If you are orchestrating teambuilding events, theme parties, and desert rallies, local Jeep companies offer any number of innovative programs. Dining under the stars is always popular whether it’s a formal dinner or a western barbecue. The four-wheel drive excursion comes complete with folklore and information on the desert and is always a memorable and interesting experience.

Another favorite group activity is hot air balloon rides of 60 to 90 minutes. The low-level views of the beautiful desert landscape typically include wildlife sightings of javelina, deer, and red-tailed hawks. When the balloons reach slightly higher elevations, spectacular panoramas loom on the horizon. If members of your group prefer to stay on the ground, horseback rides through the desert and foothills are another option.  

Activities & Attractions 

Amerind Foundation Museum
Established in 1937, the Amerind Foundation is a non-profit research institution devoted to the study, preservation, and interpretation of prehistoric and historic Native American cultures.  Housed in beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival style buildings, the Amerind Museum contains one of the finest collections of Indian artifacts in the country.  Also includes an Art Gallery, Museum Store, and picnic area.  Located off Interstate 10 (Exit 318, Dragoon Road) in Texas Canyon between Benson and Willcox. 520.586.3666 or www.amerind.org

Colossal Cave Mountain Park
This desert refuge has sheltered people for over a thousand years. It has been home, shrine, hideout, challenging workplace, exciting playground, tranquil retreat. On the National Historic Register, the 2,400-acre Park showcases crystal-filled Colossal Cave and historic La Posta Quemada Ranch. Cave tours, museums, Western trail rides, picnicking. Open daily. 16721 E. Old Spanish Trail, Vail, 520.647.PARK (7275), www.colossalcave.com