Who We Are

Since 1993, Friends of Sabino Canyon, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, has raised more than one million dollars for projects in the canyon. These include trail maintenance and repairs, facilities enhancements, water wells, interpretive exhibits, educational activities such as field trips, restoration work and funding for research and invasive species management.

The logo of Friends of Sabino Canyon emphasizes Sabino Canyon’s three life zones — the desert dominated by the iconic saguaro cactus, the riparian corridor adjacent to Sabino Creek, and the mixed conifer forests of the Santa Catalina Mountains that crown Sabino Canyon with an elevation of 9157 feet (2791 m). Winter snowfall in the higher elevations provides a store of life-giving water for Sabino Canyon as the land begins to dry out before our dramatic summer rains.

© Martin Horowitz
© Martin Horowitz

Visitors from all over the world have contributed to Friends of Sabino Canyon and its partners to conserve, protect, and enhance Sabino Canyon. FOSC works to support the efforts of the United States Forest Service, which has management authority over development and restorations in the Santa Catalina Mountains.

The benefits provided by Sabino Canyon fulfill a sense of emotional balance for visitors in myriad ways. Some embrace a challenging hike, others seek contemplative meditation alongside the creek, and some enjoy the panorama of Sabino Canyon with a sightseeing shuttle ride through the canyon. Sabino Canyon is a special treasure for all of us.