Arizona Trails and Tales with Rich Fuhrmann
Exploring Arizona parks and trails while understanding the history, folklore, creatures and human interest from deep desert trails to the simplicity of Urban Parks.
Episodes

Jul 6, 2025
Jul 6, 2025
29 min
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 Trails and Tales theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.
Mentioned in the podcast : Az Rockhound Expeditions https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxsXouUxvBM
Mentioned in the podcast:https://www.spenceropalmines.com/

Jul 1, 2025
Jul 1, 2025
30 min
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.

Jun 27, 2025
Jun 27, 2025
25 min
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 the story of Ol' Bill Williams who the town was named after. The theme song is composed and performed by Mike Myers.

Jun 25, 2025
Jun 25, 2025
24 min
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.

Jun 21, 2025
Jun 21, 2025
25 min
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 calories and going easy on your body. The podcast closes with a bit more of the history of the Hohokam who inhabited the area and the mysteries of their culture. Theme song composed and performed by Mike Myers.

Jun 20, 2025
Jun 20, 2025
22 min
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 performed by Mike Myers.

Jun 19, 2025
Jun 19, 2025
17 min
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 your comfort zone. Theme song composed and performed by Michael Myers.

Jun 17, 2025
Jun 17, 2025
26 min
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.

Jun 16, 2025
Jun 16, 2025
31 min
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 hiking with friends and family. Theme song composed and performed by Michael Myers.

Jun 14, 2025
Jun 14, 2025
30 min
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 Camp Verde near this park. The podcast includes some reflections on finding the right footgear for your travels and as always a tale of the area.






