Events and Programs
August
August 8, Star Party! Observation Point, 9:30PM
Join rangers to learn about stars, mythology and the constellations! We will view various sky objects through telescopes after the program.
August 15, Scorpion Quest! Amphitheater, 9:15PM
Learn about these amazing desert critters and then search for them on a short hike with blacklights!
August 22, Love and Tragedy in the Sky! Observation Point, 9PM
Join rangers for a tour of the constellations and stars focusing on the stories of Greek and Roman mythology. We will view some awesome deep space objects through park telescopes.
August 27, Full Moon Hike! Observation Point, 7:30PM
Join rangers for a short hike through the hoodoos under the light of the full moon! You will learn about the moon, nocturnal wildlife and other park information.
September
September 5, Star Party! Observation Point, 8:30PM
Join rangers to learn about stars, mythology and the constellations! We will view various sky objects through telescopes after the program.
September 11, The Epic of Cassiopeia! (constellation tour), Observation Point, 8:30PM
Join rangers for a tour of the constellations and stars focusing on the story of Cassiopeia, Andromeda, Cepheus, Perseus and Pegasus! We will show other constellations as well and view some awesome deep space objects through park telescopes.
September 12, Scorpion Quest! Amphitheater, 8:15PM
Learn about these amazing desert critters and then search for them on a short hike with blacklights!
September 18, Sunset Hike (Geology)! Observation Point, 7:30PM
Join rangers for a short hike through the hoodoos! You will learn about the geology of the area and how those crazy hoodoos formed.
September 19, Constellation Tour and Moon Viewing! Observation Point, 8:15PM
Join rangers for a tour of the constellations and stars focusing on the mythology associated with them! We will then view the moon and some awesome deep space objects through park telescopes.
September 26, First Day of Fall Celebration! All day event consisting of three guided hikes and a mid-day interpretive table.
9:30AM: we will hold two guided hikes that begin together and then separate depending on desired length and difficulty. Rangers will guide both and you will get a chance to learn about park geology, wildlife and other awesome information!
- Goblin’s Lair Guided Hike: more strenuous hike, approximately 3 miles round-trip. This hike will include some hands-on rock scrambling to access a cool cave formation (the Lair).
- Carmel Canyon Guided Hike: moderate loop, approximately 1.5 miles total. This hike includes some minor scrambling through a narrow canyon.
7:30PM: Full Moon Hike! Join rangers for a short hike through the hoodoos under the light of the full moon! You will learn about the moon, nocturnal wildlife and other park information.
All events this day will start at the Observation Point. More information will be shared on both our Facebook and Instagram pages once the event gets closer. For all hikes, please wear sturdy shoes and sun protection and bring water and snacks.
Note: for all dark sky programs, please bring only lights with red lenses if possible to protect night vision. Please arrive early to avoid illumination with you headlights, or park facing away from the program
Interested in a ranger program for your school or official youth group? Reach out to us in advance to see if we can schedule a program for your group at the park, or a program at your school.
