THE FULL WORM MOON IN THE DESERT

A full moon over the desert is an event you'll never forget. The sun will be setting over the Mingus Mountain Range to the west as the moon rises over the Verde Valley to the east. I can't promise perfect weather conditions, but clear skies or cloudy skies the light from the sun and moon is pretty spectacular in this location.

We will meet at the first lot on Mingus Road/Cornville Road, for the Cliff Rose Trail system, closest to AZ89A. There are 2 lots. This is the first one you encounter after turning north (right from Sedona) off of AZ89A, about 1/4 mile. Use the map on this page to find the lot.

We will slowly hike about 2-2.5 miles out and back, on a dirt track. Be prepared for cooler weather as the sun sets. Probably a 10-degree temperature change from beginning to end.

The phenomenon of a Full Moon arises when our planet, Earth, is precisely sandwiched between the Sun and the Moon. This alignment ensures the entire side of the Moon that faces us gleams under sunlight. Thanks to the Moon’s orbit around Earth, the angle of sunlight hitting the lunar surface and being reflected back to our planet changes. That creates different lunar phases.

NOTE: Yes, there is an eclipse with this full moon, but it will not be occurring during this event. It happens much earlier that same day, 133am-658am.

I am not a professional guide. You and you alone are responsible for your own safety and ability to complete this hike/event.