It’s time for another full moon in our desert. August brings a special treat with a partial lunar eclipse that will cover 96% of the moon in Earth’s shadow at peak time. We start the hike as the moon rises, have a view as it gets higher in the sky and begins to darken with a reddish hue, and return to the trailhead as it nears maximum coverage. The route uses the Service Road, San Tan and Goldmine Trails to make a 3.5-mile loop. The terrain ranges from flat and level to uneven with small to medium rocks underfoot. A section of San Tan Trail has short but steep inclines and declines that are rocky. Hiking poles may be helpful. Bring a regular flashlight and optional UV light to check for scorpions. No pets, please. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring plenty of water. Restrooms and fountain water are available at the Nature Center. The Entry Station will be closed so please bring $10 exact cash for the self-pay station or display your Annual Pass on your vehicle.
PLEASE NOTE: Outdoor summer programs may be canceled on short notice due to severe weather, including extreme heat events. The Maricopa County Parks website (www.maricopa.gov/parks) is the most accurate resource for verifying the program’s status. Please check the program listing online before coming to the park.
MEETING LOCATION: Main Trailhead map kiosk and table
Limit 20 participants. To register, please call the San Tan Nature Center at (602) 506-2930 ext. 7 with your name, phone number and number of people attending. If you find you cannot attend a program after you have registered, please call the Nature Center ASAP so we may contact those on the waiting list. Registration for this program will close on 8/25/26.