August Milky Way Meet Up - Chiricahua National Monument - 2 Night Event

Hello fellow Photographers!

Join us for an unforgettable night under the stars as we capture the beauty of the Milky Way! This event is perfect for photographers of all skill levels—whether you're just starting with night photography or looking to refine your astrophotography techniques.

Accommodation is the responsibility of each attendee. Camping is available at the Monument. There may be BLM land nearby to also camp for free and hotels in nearby Wilcox and some Airbnb's very close to the monument.

Explore the Monument: https://www.nps.gov/chir/index.htm
Monument Map: https://www.nps.gov/chir/planyourvisit/maps.htm

Please note that cell phone service may be intermittent in this area.

FRIDAY
Afternoon:

• Check into hotel/airbnb then head to monument to scout out following locations: Massai Point, Painted desert Vista, Bonita Canyon Rd Turnouts, Echo Canyon Overlook
• Rest & prep gear

Sunset + Blue Hour + Milky Way – Massai Point

• Arrive: 5:45 PM
• Golden Hour: 6:30–7:15 PM
• Milky Way Core Visibility: 8:30 PM–Moonrise (11 pm)
• Subject: Hoodoo rock formations, silhouetted trees
• Notes: Paved road, no hiking. Perfect for night setup near car.

SATURDAY
Sunrise – Echo Canyon Overlook

• Arrive: 5 AM (sunrise ~5:40 AM)
• Golden Hour: 5:30 am - 6:15 am
• Subject: Dramatic rock pillars lit from the east
• Access: Easy pullout and overlook, no hike

Sunset – Painted Desert Vista

• Arrive: 5:45 PM
• Golden Hour: 6:30–7:15 PM
• Subject: Broad desert landscape, monsoon clouds
• Access: Roadside turnout

Milky Way – Bonita Canyon Road Turnouts

• Time: 8:30 PM–Moonrise (11 pm)
• Subject: Milky Way over desert trees & distant hills
• Tip: Set up from car or tripod roadside, low-light friendly

SUNDAY
Optional Sunrise – Massai Point

• Arrive: 5 AM
• Golden hour: 5:30 am - 6:15 am
• Subject: Wide-angle views over hoodoos, facing east

What to Expect:

• A chance to photograph the Milky Way in a stunning dark sky location.
• Tips on camera settings, composition, and focusing in the dark.
• Opportunities to experiment with light painting and foreground elements.
• A relaxed, friendly environment to learn and share photography ideas.

Recommended Gear:

• A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings.
• A fast wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or lower is ideal).
• A sturdy tripod.
• A remote shutter release or intervalometer.
• A headlamp with a red light option to preserve night vision.

Important Notes:

• This event is weather-dependent; if cloud cover is too thick, we may reschedule.
• Be mindful of light pollution—use red lights and avoid unnecessary screen brightness.
• Respect the natural environment and pack out any trash and use leave no trace principles to guide your photography.
• Learn more here: https://naturefirst.org/en/principles/

Come ready to embrace the night sky, connect with fellow photographers, and create celestial images!

If you have any questions, feel free to ask. Looking forward to seeing you there!

Jennifer
(See phone number in event comments)

Landscape Photographer | Storyteller | Nature Enthusiast | Pagan Inspired

Blog, Emails, Workshops: jennrichardsonphoto.com

Bluesky: @wild-and-wander
Youtube: @jennrichardsonphoto
Facebook: @jennrichardsonphoto
Instagram: @jenn.richardson.photo