The high diversity of forest and grassland types within the San Francisco Peaks supports over 80 species of native mammals, over 250 plant species, and over 120 species of birds, including many neotropical migrants, old-growth dependent birds, and a wide variety of raptors.

Summer Nature Walks: These 90-minute walks offer the opportunity to learn more about birds, wildflowers, forest ecology, and the Conservancy’s work across the region. Nature Walks are every Sunday, mid-June thru September.

Those interested in visiting the preserve at other times than the Sunday nature walks should call (928) 774-8892 ext. 5 to make an appointment. While the preserve is not open on a daily basis for visitors, Hart Prairie offers intimate retreat facilities for public or private organizations with a focus on land management, conservation, education, and outreach; and guided nature walks during the summer and fall.

Surrounded by thousands of acres of cool forest and meadows, the 245-acre preserve is home to uncommon wildflowers, old-growth ponderosa pine, a rare grove of Bebb willows, herds of elk and deer, porcupine, prairie dogs, and more than 40 species of birds.

Hart Prairie Preserve, with its historic lodge and charming guest cabins, was donated to The Nature Conservancy in 1994 by a local family, owners of The Homestead at Hart Prairie, when they discovered that their property held a globally rare community of Bebb willow trees.

Much of the work at the preserve focuses on the Bebb willow community, the largest known in the world. Conservancy staff also works closely with partners at the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Geological Survey, and various departments at Northern Arizona University on ecological restoration activities in the surrounding National Forest.