Guided Ecology Moonlight Hike

This narrative sunset and moonlight hike explores the spectacular ecology of Joshua Tree National Park after dark. Participants will experience the changing desert landscape from golden hour through sunset and into the moonlight while learning about the geology, plants, climate, and cultural history of the park from field ecologist Mike Medina. The hike takes place on the Split Rock loop trail in Joshua Tree National Park and covers approximately 2.5 miles. Along the way, participants will observe how the desert environment changes after sunset and gain a deeper appreciation for the park’s nighttime ecology and atmosphere. The pace is leisurely with time for interpretation, observation, and discussion throughout the evening.

• The outdoor portion takes place in Joshua Tree National Park.

• Anyone may attend! No expertise or experience is required.

• Entry to Joshua Tree National Park is not included in the cost of enrollment. Please purchase your park pass online ahead of time on the NPS website.

• No meals or equipment are provided.

• Participants are responsible for their own transportation; carpooling with other participants is encouraged.

This class is moderate. It requires less than 5 miles of walking with limited elevation gain on somewhat variable terrain and/or more than one hour outdoors in the elements. Participants will hike approximately 2 miles in a loop back to the parking lot. In fall, temperatures may become cold after sunset. Participants will take a leisurely stroll close to the parking lot, and the activity will run for approximately 1.5 hours. 

Required Items:

• Water (1 - 2 liters per person)

• Appropriate attire: Layers are recommended for low nighttime temperatures

• Food and snacks

• Closed-toe athletic shoes

• Daypack

• Headlamp or flashlight (red light preferred)

• Camera (optional)

• Field notebook (optional)

• A full tank of gas (or full charge for EVs) prior to arriving at the meeting location 

Discount Policy: Only one discount may be applied per registration. Discounts cannot be combined. Eligible discounts include Friends & Family, Teacher, Veteran, Active Duty Military (and spouses), Park Lover Member, and Student discounts. The highest applicable single discount will be applied at checkout. 

Meet Your Instructor: Mike Medina has over 40 years of experience as a field biologist and instructor. He spent 32 years on active and reserve duty and as a civil service employee with the US Navy as a vector ecologist, global health specialist, natural resource specialist, and senior leader. In 2022, he retired and began volunteering and teaching with Desert Institute. Mike is also a National Park Service volunteer field and nursery/herbarium technician and a Preventative Search and Rescue team member.

Photo Credit: NPS/Hannah Schwalbe