Madera Canyon – Santa Rita Lodge
Over 250 species of birds have been identified in Madera Canyon. Some of our ‘celebrity’ birds that draw visitors from all over the world include the Elegant Trogon, Elf Owl, Sulphur-Bellied Flycatcher, and Painted Redstart. The Santa Rita Lodge is one of the best locations in the canyon to view up to 15 species of hummingbirds, including Broad-billed, Anna’s, Black-chinned, Rufous, Broad-tailed, and Magnificent. The lucky birder might catch sight of the more rare Violet-crowned, Blue-throated, Calliope, and Plain-capped Starthroat.
Night birding can bring more variety to your canyon experience. Rely on your ears and a flashlight (use judiciously and avoid pointing directly at their faces and sensitive eyes!) and you may find varieties of Screech-Owls, Elf Owls, Barn, and Great Horned Owls.
Site Information
Region: Tucson and Southern
County: Santa Cruz
Directions: Follow directions to Madera Canyon Recreation Area from I-19. The Santa Rita Lodge is on the right towards the end of the Madera Canyon Road (Whitehouse Canyon Road turns into Madera Canyon Rd), about 11 1/2 miles.
Latitude: 31.725285
Longitude: -110.879983
Operational Hours:
Admission or Fees:
Best time to visit: The best time to catch sight of the most varied array of birds is during migration season in the spring. However, several species can be spotted through summer and well into fall and winter.
Habitats: Pinyon-juniper Forest, Pine-oak Forest, Stream or river
Know Before You Go
Enjoy checking as many species off your Life List as possible from the many trails and picnic areas in Madera Canyon or from the Santa Rita Lodge Bird Viewing Area. Parking here is free if you are visiting the viewing area (no parking for hiking). Sit comfortably in our shaded seating area, which is also wheelchair accessible while watching your favorite birds visit our feeders in their natural and protected habitat.
Safety First! Arizona has many beautiful places to explore and we’d like to help you make it a safe and enjoyable experience. Check out our recommendations for hiking precautions.
Species Highlights
Rare: Elegant Trogon, Violet-crowned Hummingbird
Speciality: Acorn Woodpecker, Broad-billed Hummingbird, Elf Owl, Hepatic Tanager, Lucifer Hummingbird, Mexican Jay, Painted Redstart, Red-faced Warbler, Rivoli’s Hummingbird, Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher
Charismatic: Anna’s Hummingbird, Black-chinned Hummingbird
Contact Information
Santa Rita Lodge
1218 S Madera Canyon Rd
Madera Canyon, AZ 85614
Phone: 520-625-8746
Website: https://www.santaritalodge.com/
Email: birds@santaritalodge.com
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L268114
