• Sunlight illuminates the top of historic Mission San José de Tumacácori church.

    Tumacácori

    National Historical Park Arizona

  • Trail Construction ongoing at the historic Tumacácori Mission site

    A new accessible trail is being built around the mission. Due to heavy equipment and construction activities, detours and partial closures exist. Associated dust, noise, and potential trip hazards will be present through the end of May.

Survive the Sun

Many people are not acclimated to the temperatures of the Sonoran Desert. In all seasons, whether walking or day hiking, follow these tips to conserve your internal water reserves:

REDUCE YOUR ACTIVITY
During the warmest days, generally from May through August, avoid hiking during the heat of the day - generally from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

FIND SHADE
Shade in the desert means the difference between excessive heat gain from the sun and sheer comfort. In an emergency, a person resting in the shade will survive longer than someone exposed to the sun.

DRINK YOUR WATER
Don't try to conserve the drinking water you have. Carry plenty of drinking water - then drink it - at least 1 gallon per person per day.

REDUCE ALCOHOL & CAFFEINE INTAKE
Water is the best remedy for dehydration and listlessness. The diuretic effects of caffeine and alcohol can result in accelerated loss of body water.

PROTECT YOUR BODY
Skin is sensitive and burns easily; make use of shade, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Proper footwear protects feet and provides support for ankles. Dehydration is accelerated by exposed skin, so keep your clothing on. Wear long-sleeved, loose-fitting, light-colored clothes.

Did You Know?

Small Pox Epidemic

Small pox and measles epidemics on numerous occasions killed far more people than all the Apache wars combined.