RRSP’s Enchanting Moonlight Hike Reveals Hidden Wonders

A diverse group of hikers gathered at Red Rock State Park for the last moonlight hike of the year on October 17. The park, known for its stunning vistas, provided an ideal backdrop as the sun set behind Sedona’s iconic red rock formations.

Park staff organized the hikers into three groups, each led by volunteer naturalists and rangers. The structure ensured safety as a designated leader shared information about the area’s ecology and natural history while a “tailgater” monitored the group’s welfare.

Jan Taylor, a long-time volunteer naturalist and the secretary of the Sedona Westerners Hiking Club, spearheaded the most ambitious group. Taylor, who has been guiding hikes at Red Rock for 14 years, noted the popularity of moonlight excursions, often finding them fully booked.

“The daytime hikes attract various participants, but the moonlight hikes are something special,” she explained, adding, “I’d love to see more locals experience what Red Rock State Park has to offer.” She expressed her belief that many Sedona residents might not have visited the park, which is accessible and pristine.

The moonlight hikes, unlike other park activities, require a fee—$15 per person plus the $7 entry fee—but offer a unique opportunity to experience the landscape in a different light. “When it’s hot, I prefer hiking early in the morning,” Taylor shared. “The nighttime hikes here are unparalleled.”

Taylor’s own fascination with moonlit adventures began at the Grand Canyon about a decade ago. “It was so bright we didn’t need any lights,” she recalled, highlighting the lasting impact of that experience.

During the hike, participants journeyed through three ecological life zones, learning about the local flora and historical landmarks along the way. Taylor’s expertise shone as she explained the geology of the area, detailing how iron in the rocks creates the iconic rust-red hue that characterizes Sedona’s landscape.

Sisters Julie Amick and Shannon Syth joined the hike as part of their family tradition, hiking two trails each year. “It’s just beautiful,” Syth remarked, “it makes you feel whole again.” Another participant, Kimberlie Cerdá, emphasized how guided hikes deepen one’s appreciation for the environment. “Everything around us is alive too,” she noted. “We often don’t think about that.”

As hikers reached the top of Eagle’s Nest, cheers erupted as the full moon rose, illuminating the natural beauty surrounding them. The return journey saw participants animatedly discussing their experiences, showcasing a shared appreciation for the park’s offerings.

Seasonal ranger Emerson Deslaurier remarked on the pleasure of interacting with both locals and visitors during his time at the park. “Working here allows you to learn a lot more about the natural environment,” he stated.

Red Rock State Park is not only a nature preserve but also an educational center, offering a variety of trails and programs that highlight Sedona’s history and ecology. Although the moonlight hikes have concluded for the season, Taylor will continue leading various nature and geology hikes, promising an enriching experience for all who attend.

For additional details on the park’s offerings, interested visitors can explore more online.