Ramsey Canyon Preserve, Hereford

About Ramsey Canyon Preserve

Ramsey Canyon Preserve near Hereford offers hiking and nature observation along scenic trails through a spring-fed canyon in southeastern Arizona. Visitors explore a waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation and encounter diverse wildlife including hummingbirds, black bears, coatis and ringtails. The preserve protects plant communities ranging from semi-desert grassland to pine-fir forest, with water-loving species like sycamores, maples and columbines growing alongside cacti and yucca near Ramsey Creek. Southwestern specialties present here include Apache and Chihuahua pines, ridge-nosed rattlesnakes, lesser long-nosed bats, elegant trogons and Rivoli's hummingbirds. The canyon's moist, cool environment results from its spring-fed stream, northeast orientation and high walls—unusual conditions in the surrounding desert. Birders, hikers and nature enthusiasts find the preserve particularly rewarding. The preserve also serves as a regional office for conservation work including fire management and stream restoration. Admission is charged, with hours varying seasonally.