The Arizona Trail: An 850-mile Mountain Bike Exploration of Climate Change

Along the 850-mile Arizona Trail from Utah to Mexico, climate change is reshaping ecosystems and communities across the Southwest. In fall 2025, Arizona Republic climate reporter and ecologist Joan Meiners spent seven weeks mountain biking the entire trail to document these changes and explore solutions with scientists, tribes, and local experts. Through vivid photos, video, and storytelling, this presentation traces Arizona’s most urgent environmental challenges and opportunities—mile by mile—from fire-scarred forests and deepening drought to renewable energy efforts and humanitarian issues at the border. This free program is made possible by AZ Humanities and space is limited. Please note, park admission is not included.