The Autumn Equinox will occur on Monday September 21st 2025 at 12:19 pm MDT.
The equinox marks the beginning of the fall season in the Northern Hemisphere and is the moment when the sun’s path crosses the Earth’s equator. Day and night are nearly equal in length.
Many years ago Rory Tyler discovered astronomical activity connected to many of the rock art panels in the Moab area. He brought hundreds of people to see these Astronomical slideshows and share what he had seen. This year the equinox is at 12:19 pm so the timing maybe slightly off, however you should still be able to view the Moab’s Ancient Astronomers show. Times for the best viewing are approximate and listed below. They will generally be visible on the morning and evening of the 22nd and the morning of the 23rd.
Some of these hikes can be hot and not well marked, it is suggested to go with someone who has been there before on your first trip. Bring plenty of water, a headlamp, and be prepared for changes in temperature and weather.
Snake Site/Warrior Panel –
This is about a 4 hour hike to the site. It is about 4 miles up the Pritchett Canyon jeep road. The trailhead is on Kane Springs Road and there is a fee.
Morning – 11:00 am
Afternoon – 2pm – 3 pm This afternoon viewing gives the opportunity to observe and get back to the trailhead before dark.
Snake Site/The Mighty One –
Evening – 6:45 pm You will be back to your car late – around 10:00 pm be sure to bring a light.
Goose Panel –
This is about a 2 hour hike to the site located in Arches National Park.
Morning – 7:30 to 8:30 am
Ray Panel –
Located along Hidden Valley, this hike takes about 2 hours to get to the panel
Morning – 8:30 am
Raven Eats the Sun –
This site in Hidden Valley is a 3 hour hike.
Evening – 6:30 pm ( the two Hidden Valley sites can be turned into an overnight trip, go to the Ray panel in the morning, then on to the Raven Eats the Sun, campout, then go see the Ray panel again the morning of the 23rd.
Katchina Sees You –
It is a one hour drive out Hellroaring Canyon to the trailhead, from there it is about a 2 hour hike to the site.
Morning – 8:00 am
