Bring the family out for a fun hike in the desert to watch the sunset colors paint the sky shades of orange, pink and purple. Then, as darkness falls, we will watch the Full “Blue Moon” rise to the east. A blue moon is the second full moon that occurs in a single calendar month. (The “regular” full moon is on May 1). This evening’s full moon is also a “Micromoon”, the name given to a full moon when it coincides with the point in the moon’s orbit that is farthest away from Earth (approximately 251,655 miles!). The route uses Moonlight Trail to trek toward the west and watch the sunset. The return trip is via the Service Road to head east and watch the moonrise. The terrain on Moonlight ranges from flat and level to uneven with small to medium rocks underfoot. The Service Road is mostly level terrain with some rocks at the west end but leveling and smoothing out toward the finish. The hike starts at sunset so bring a flashlight to help you navigate the route. You can also bring a UV blacklight to look for scorpions (optional). 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 (http://www.maricopa.gov/parks) is the most accurate resource for verifying the program’s current status. Please check the program listing online before coming to the park.
MEETING LOCATION: Main Trailhead picnic table
Precise Meeting Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GdrZzEpwJMmwi3Q17
Limit 25 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 5/29/26.