After nearly 20 years of writing about and photographing hiking trails, we decided to put together a special, never-before-seen edition of Our Favorite Hikes to coincide with our “Sedona After Dark” issue. For months, our photographer has been heading out in the dark to capture spectacular shots of some of our favorite hiking trails as you’ve (probably) never seen them before – under the night’s sky. We hope you enjoy this one-of-a-kind feature. Some things are worth the wait.
ARTICLE BY TERESA K. TRAVERSE. PHOTOGRAPH BY DEB WEINKAUFF.
A dark blue sky spotted with stars provides a backdrop for a shot of the illuminated Courthouse Butte (center) and dark Bell Rock (right) red rock formations from the Yavapi Vista Trail. A recent snowfall supplied the dark pool of water in the foreground (Pictured Above).
A blanket of stars and a few clouds light up the sky behind the nearly “glowing” deep orange and red rocks of Munds Mountain. Taken on Schnebly Hill Road.
A full moon acts as a natural spotlight and shines bright on Courthouse Butte, drawing out the orange in the red rock formation and the deep red of the trail. Photographed near the Courthouse Butte Loop trailhead.
As the moon rises against a blue, starless sky from behind Lee Mountain — casting a light over the red rock formations in the twilight hours. Photographed from the Bell Rock area.
Uneven shadows appear to create a zig-zig over Mitten Ridge of Bear Wallow Canyon that’s paired with a deep blue sky dotted with bright white stars. Captured on Schnebly Hill Road.
Sedona Monthly has been recognized by Native American groups, conservation groups and the Park Service for its responsible stewardship in bringing these hikes to readers and viewers. These trail photos were shot by a professional photographer with extensive experience hiking outdoors. Please do not attempt these or other hikes after dark. If you would like a comparable and safe experience, the Arizona State Parks & Trails offers Full Moon hikes that are professionally supervised. Learn more at azstateparks.com.
Hiking Alert
Please check with the Red Rock Ranger District of Coconino National Forest before planning your hike. For more information visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=54892
