BLM Hosts Full Moon Hike & Star Viewing at La Ventana Natural Arch Trail
La Ventana Natural Arch Trailhead Parking Lot
34.8725210, -107.8899147
Grants, NM 87020
United States
GRANTS, N.M. – Step into the moonlight and discover a whole new side of the desert by joining park rangers from the Bureau of Land Management’s El Malpais National Conservation Area for a moonlit hike on Friday, Oct. 23, 2026.
The program will begin at 7:00 p.m. with a 45-minute guided hike on the La Ventana Natural Arch Trail. Along the way, rangers will share stories about the moon and the desert’s nocturnal wildlife. After the hike, participants can also take a closer look at the night sky through telescopes, including BLM’s new Dobsonian telescope.
Participants should bring a flashlight, weather-appropriate layers, sturdy shoes and plenty of water. For everyone’s safety, hikers are asked to remain with the group along the trail. For the best night sky viewing experience, please avoid using flashlights or bright screens during the stargazing portion of the program. Dim red lights will be set up in the telescope area to help participants navigate the stars without losing their dark-adapted vision.
For more information, please email El Malpais NCA Park Ranger Evie Forster at [email protected] or call (505) 280-2918.
The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.