A hiker takes a break on one of the many rock outcroppings at Oracle State Park, near the town of Oracle.

Chris Richards / Arizona Daily Star 2002

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Oak grasslands teeming with wildlife. Trails winding among big boulders. A historic ranch house built in — of all things — Mediterranean-revival style.

Those are some of the main attractions at Oracle State Park. It's tucked away in rolling terrain near the town of Oracle — on the "back side" of the Catalina Mountains from Tucson.

Known for its environmental education programs for groups and students, the park also is popular with hikers and bird-watchers.

The 1.6-mile Granite Overlook Trail Loop leads to the 4,622-foot high point of the park. Other options include the 1.2-mile Nature Trail Loop and the 0.9-mile Windy Ridge Trail Loop.

The Kannally Ranch House — with architectural flourishes, colors and landscaping befitting the Mediterranean coast of Italy — is open to the public for guided tours.

Tours, which are included in the price of park admission, are held Saturdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Other facilities include a wildlife viewing area and picnic tables.

Park hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. It's closed Christmas Day. Admission is $6 per vehicle.

To get to the park from Tucson, go north on Oracle Road, which becomes Arizona 77. Take Arizona 77 past Oracle Junction to the town of Oracle. In Oracle, follow American Avenue to a signed turnoff for Mount Lemmon and the park. Then continue to the park entrance on the left.

For more information, call 1-520-896-2425. – Doug Kreutz