Arizona Trails and Tales with Rich Fuhrmann

Episode 28 of my podcast Arizona Trails and Tales is a casual episode where Rich discusses making that authentic Arizona chili and enjoying late Arizona summer. Celebrating some current and former coworkers who can take the extreme edible heat! Song not played but: Arizona Trails and tales theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

Episode 27 of Arizona Trails and Tales features bugs found while out enjoying nature in Arizona and a comparative sting/pain index. This episode also features the Perseid Meteor shower and the Arizona tale of Pluto the "Dwarf" planet. The New River Trail in Peoria is also reviewed.

In this episode of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich explores the history of trails and how modern trail designs are decided on. This episode features a segment on how trails get their names and a brief write up about the Maricopa Trail. The podcast ends with a tribute to Dale Shewalter who envisioned the Arizona Trail (AZT).

In episode 25 recorded ( at Surprise Park on the phone) of Arizona Trails and Tales Rich discussed completing the Blazing Summer 65 mile adventure challenge. This episode also looks to the learning and practices of the past to help us stay cool while enjoying the outdoors in the Sonoran Desert.

In Episode 24 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich discusses the must visit of Horseshoe Bend near Page, Arizona. Rich describes the 1.5 mile scenic hike and shares his experience camping, fishing and a bit about birding when down of the river. This episode concludes with a brief story about Lee's Ferry a historic crossing area. Arizona Trails and Tales theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers...

In episode 23 of my podcast Arizona Trails and Tales I use a different format to share what to consider when selecting the best trail for you right now. I also discuss some ways to stay motivated. In the Tales portion we review a figure from our history who was highly motivated and see how things turned out for them

In episode 22 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich describes his fun  historical experience at Montezuma's Castle and Montezuma's Well in Camp Verde and Rimrock Arizona. Celebrating the end of snake week, also learn a bit about scorpions in Arizona.

In episode 21 of Arizona Trails and Tales with Rich Fuhrmann, Rich explains why we should get over our irrational fear of snakes an enjoy the trails and potential interactions with other creatures. This episode reviews the impact of the Monarch Fire on the Hassayampa River Preserve, Lyke's Lookout Trail and getting out on the trails despite the potential fear of snakes in Arizona. https://snakewee...

In episode 20, of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich explores navigating the Base and Meridian Wildlife Viewing Area. This episode explained traveling to the riparian corridor, fishing, wildlife viewing and the importance of leaving No Trace. Also included in this episode is the significance of handling a blister in the field and the legend of the Red Ghost. Theme song recorded and composed by Mike My...

In Episode 19 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich describes one of his favorite out and back hikes at the Cave Creek Regional Park named the Slate trail. Hear some of the interesting features and reviews of this trail. Rich has also compiled a top ten, in descending order, of Thou Shall policies for beginning hikers. Finally hear the tales of the feared Arizona Jackalope of Cave Creek... Arizona Tra...

In episode 18 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich discusses the wonders of including birding as part of your overall outdoor experience. This podcast covers some essential gear, apps, readings and how to start becoming a better birder. The podcast ends with the tale of how the name Phoenix was selected. Theme song written and performed by Mike Myers.

In this 17th episode of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich discusses the little gem of a town named Williams, Arizona. Located in the heart of the Kaibab forest and only about an hour from Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon this town offers so much for a large variety of interests. Rich shares one of his trips up there and the importance of being prepared and trying to make the best of a situation. Hear t...

In Episode 16 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich rates his top 10 community parks based on a new rubric. Is your community park listed? Do you agree with the ratings? Message Rich at Arizonatrailsandtales@gmail.com . Todays feature also includes a brief section on taking care of your feet... a must for trail goers. The theme is composed and performed by Mike Myers.

Episode 15 of Arizona Trails and Tales focuses on the restroom loop created by Rich when visiting the White Tank Mountain Regional Park. 50+ and have an overactive bladder? This 7-9 mile hike, depending on trail choice, offers a great workout with a few stops for those who are not in "Peak" hiking condition. Explore the Mule Deer Trail, Bajada Trail and the Southern Trail while burning the calorie...

In episode 14 of Arizona Trails and Tales, Rich describes the purpose and history of the man made Tres Rios Wetlands area. Learn about the variety of bird, animal and fishing opportunities during your visit to this 5 mile relatively flat area outside of Phoenix. This episode also discusses the flood of 1891 and the reasons for flood control in the Phoenix Salt River area. Theme song composed and p...

In this 13th episode of Arizona Trails and Tales Rich describes his journey of getting out on the trails and trying to inspire others based on his own negative experiences in self perception and hopes of helping others. No specific trails or parks are mentioned in this Juneteenth episode, rather it is hoped the message is relatable and may help others understand the importance of moving out of you...

In episode 12 of Arizona Trails and Tales we explore Surprise Community Park! In this episode Rich discusses the city and park history, amenities, and fishing at an urban pond. Hear about some of the other city offerings right next to the park. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

In episode 11 of Arizona Trails and Tales join Mike and Rich as they discuss the making of the theme song to the podcast while hiking a trail in the White Tank Mountains. The podcast includes the brand new theme song and an extended interview with Mike while crunching through the gravel on various trails. The podcast also includes a discussion of the Merlin id app and the importance of considering...

In episode 10 of Arizona Trails and Tales Rich describes his trip last year to Arizona's newest state park the Rocking River Ranch in Camp Verde, Arizona. In this unedited and unfiltered recollection, you will learn about the ancient history of the area, the most recent history and a bit about the ranch turned park itself in 2024. This podcast explores the trails, wildlife and experience of being...

In this Episode of Arizona Trails and Tales Rich will be discussing the history, features and the Baseline Trail at Estrella Mountain Community Park. Learn about hiking opportunities and a regular second Saturday of the month guided bird walk through the Sonoran Audubon Society. Did you know there is even a legend of buried gold in the Estrella Mountains?

Episode 8 of Arizona Trails and Tales Rich explores his time as part of a training group (militia movement during the 2020s?) near Red Rock Arizona. In this episode he explores what training looks like, how to find your tribe, and how to navigate media and feel good experiences with friends and family. Note... there may be topics explored that make you uncomfortable and this doesn't describe a spe...

7th podcast of Arizona Trails and Tales-Rich discusses the planning and challenges of an impromptu trip to Sedona going to the Fay Canyon Trail with family visiting from out of state. This conversational episode explores the challenges of not being well prepared, believing what you read on the Internet, and making the best of a challenging situation.

Join Richard Fuhrmann on an adventure through Arizona's outdoor spaces as he narrates his personal tale of perseverance and lessons learned on the Apache Wash Long Loop Trail. This episode offers insights into hiking challenges, the beauty of the Sonoran Desert, and tips for preparing for a successful trail experience. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a nature enthusiast, discover the captiv...

Welcome to Arizona Trails and Tales, where we delve into the stories and experiences of outdoor spaces in Arizona. In this episode, our host shares personal observations about local trails, park etiquette, and common frustrations. Discover the allure of the infamous Waterfall Trail in the White Tank Mountains and grapple with the challenges of promoting such a heavily trafficked, yet iconic path....

Join host Rich Fuhrmann on an adventurous exploration of the Go John Trail, located in the scenic Cave Creek Regional Park of Arizona. In this episode, Rich delves into the fascinating history of the park, from its ancient inhabitants to the infamous skirmishes between U.S. troops and Apache Indians.  Rich also shares insights on the trail rating system and the joy of observing rocks and minerals...