Mount Yonah sunset & moonrise (+ Comet Panstarrs?)

Ok so the heavenly bodies are in proper alignment again for a moonrise viewing attempt from Mt Yonah. These are tricky because they are really only doable a couple of days a month, and then you have to hope for clear skies.  The sunset can burn through some light clouds but you need a clear horizon for the moonrise.  And during the warmer weather, there is much more haze....so this may be the last great chance we get until October or so.

We will also try to spot Comet Panstarrs on the western horizon after sunset (7:55 PM).  It is higher in the sky every night lately but also speeding away from us and becoming fainter.  But perhaps we can find it with binoculars...probably a good chance.  We can also do some extra stargazing before the moonrise at 9:30 PM.  This was fun when we did it last month and the time flew by after the sunset.

This will be a SLOW paced hike.  Expect to go only about 1 1/2 to 2mph on the way up.   We will keep the group together except for a couple of steep sections where everyone can go at their own pace.  It's still 1500' of ascent, so even at a relaxed pace, you will get a bit of a workout.

We will take the shortcut trail on the way up, so really only 2 miles to the top.  There are a few great places to pose for photos up there, so we can do that and of course also enjoy the views.

Be sure to dress warm and bring extra layers for standing around and waiting for the sunset and moonrise.  It will be cold after the sun drops, esp if it is windy.  Here is the link to the NOAA forecast: Yonah Pointcast

Total distance is about 4.1 miles.  Remember the last 30-45 minutes are on the way down in the dark, so be sure to bring a headlamp or flashlight.

It should be a great day to be on Yonah and hope you can join us.

will be provided at carpool and via email for those meeting at event.

 The last half mile of the drive to the trailhead is on a well maintained gravel road

If rain is forecast, this event will be rescheduled.

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