Hike under the ‘Winter Moon’

The moon won’t look like this when hikers take the full moon hike at 5 p.m. on Dec. 10 at Mueller State Park’s Grouse Mountain Trailhead. This is actually the highest resolution, near-global topographic map of the moon ever created. It was recently released by NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter science team. Courtesy photo | NASA

Posted: Tuesday, November 22, 2011 11:10 am | Updated: 11:15 am, Tue Nov 22, 2011.

Hike under the ‘Winter Moon’ By Norma Engelberg Colorado Community Media | 0 comments

There is a full moon every 29.5 days so it’s obvious that hiking under a full moon isn’t something one can do everyday. Many people have never hiked under a full moon at all, making such a hike a once-in-lifetime event under the right circumstances.

Those right circumstances are coming up — hikers who want to take advantage of them, should meet at 5 p.m., just before moon rise, on Dec. 10 at Mueller State Park’s Grouse Mountain Trailhead. The hike is free but park fees still apply.

The full moon rises over Pikes Peak that night making for a spectacular view, if the weather cooperates. At any rate, hikers will be joining volunteer naturalist Russ for this 1.5-mile hike. Not only will they experience the state park at night, they will also learn stray facts and fun myths about the moon.

Traditionally, according to “Farmers Almanac,” the full moon in December is called “The Cold Moon” or “Winter Moon” for fairly obvious reasons, so dress warm, bring sturdy shoes, water, snacks, rain gear and a flashlight, plus extra batteries. No sunscreen is required but a hat is still a must, preferably one that covers the ears.

For more information, call the state park visitors center at 719-687-2366 — the center is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays — or visit www.parks.state.co.us.

Discuss
Print

Posted in Life on Tuesday, November 22, 2011 11:10 am. Updated: 11:15 am.

Welcome to the discussion.

Or, use your linked account: