The Valley of the Sun Chapter of American Pilgrims covers the general area of central Arizona, centered on Phoenix.
The purpose of our local chapter is to keep participants connected to the Camino and to introduce new people to it, by:
- Supporting the goals of American Pilgrims on the Camino, and encouraging membership in the parent organization
- Providing opportunities for pilgrims, past, present and future to gather and to hold events related to and promoting the Camino de Santiago
- Mentoring future pilgrims
- Serving as a local host for hospitalero training in central Arizona
Contact chapter coordinators Tina Strickler, Steven Coutinho and Cheryl Smart at [email protected] for more information. You can also sign up for the chapter email list.
Follow this link to the Local Chapter video on the American Pilgrims YouTube channel.
We have chapter shirts, hats and mugs available. Order yours using the links below:
Resources
Chapter Presentations
- Camino 101
- Camino 201
- Spanish for the Camino
- Digital Pilgrim’s Toolkit
- January 2023 Chapter meeting
- February 2022 Chapter meeting
- May 2021 Chapter meeting
Online Resources
- Getting Started on the Camino de Santiago
- Introduction to the Ways of “The Way”
- Injury Prevention Tips for the Camino
- Basic Spanish for the Camino (rev. 2021)
- Helpful Camino Websites
- Leave No Trace: Ethics for the Camino
Events
The chapter will be hosting hikes, guest speakers, member presentations, pilgrim mentoring sessions, social get-togethers, and much more!
To see what we’re doing, the best option is to join our mailing list and/or request to join our Facebook Group where you can check out the latest announcements. You can check our upcoming events below or email us to find out what we’re up to.
Chapter Calendar
Phoenix, AZ: Valley of the Sun, Scorpion Lookout at Paloma Park
Online: Valley of the Sun, Life After the Camino
Phoenix, AZ: Valley of the Sun, Welcome Home Celebration
Phoenix, AZ: Valley of the Sun, San Tan Regional Park – 4.3 miles
Phoenix, AZ: Valley of the Sun, White Tanks MESQUITE CANYON – 8 Miles
Online: Valley of the Sun Chapter, What is Pilgrimage
Mentor Program
If you are thinking of walking the Camino and are interested in learning more, we can pair you with an experienced pilgrim who can answer your questions on how to prepare and what to expect. Just email us and ask to be connected with a mentor.
Become a Member
You don’t need to be a member to participate in chapter activities. However, we’d love to have you! American Pilgrims members aid our national mission to support Camino infrastructure, gather pilgrims and provide information about the Camino. Becoming a member it’s a great way to connect with your fellow pilgrims, qualify for Hospitalero training, contribute to our La Concha publication, and attend exclusive members-only events.
Keen to Learn More About the Camino?
Consider joining the Facebook group for great dialogue, Q&A, photos and a running commentary about the Camino from like-minded pilgrims.
The website has a ton of pilgrimage planning resources like; a packing list, planning 101, what to expect while there, route overviews, and suggested apps and guidebooks.
And when you are preparing to go, you can even order your pilgrim credential from American Pilgrims. Members receive a free credential. Non-members may order a credential for a $5 donation.
And for some inspiration, check out La Concha, our quarterly magazine. It includes updates from American Pilgrims, notes from field volunteers, pilgrim stories, poetry, art and book/film reviews.