This Is the Ultimate Moonlight Hike for July’s Buck Moon in Arizona

There's nothing quite like hiking at night, and there's no better time for a night hike than under a full moon! July is the month of the Buck Moon, and in 2025, the Buck Moon will be in its full glory on July 10th. This moon gets its name from the fact that bucks begin to grow their new antlers in July. Enjoy silence, beauty, and moonlight this July when you take a hike under the Buck Moon.

If you want to hike under the Buck Moon this July in Arizona, there are so many fantastic hikes in the Grand Canyon State from which to choose. Really, you can't go wrong with any of them. However, one we'd especially recommend is Jacob's Crosscut and Siphon Draw Trail in Lost Dutchman State Park just 40 miles east of Phoenix.

Hiking at any time of the day or night is special, but there's something extra special about night hiking. Night hiking is a great way to experience Arizona's wilds in the summertime, as it's often very hot — or even too hot — to hike in Arizona during the daytime.

Whether you've been night hiking before or not, there are some extra things that you should consider when preparing for a hike at night. First, don't forget to bring plenty of water. Even though it will be cooler in the desert at night, Arizona is quite dry no matter the time of day, and you want to ensure that you are properly hydrated for your adventure.

Thanks to the Buck Moon, you should be able to see the trail easily once it's high in the sky; however, you should also bring a light source, such as a flashlight or headlamp, as a backup. You'll also want to bring snacks, a first-aid kit, sturdy hiking shoes, and extra layers of clothing — temperatures drop quickly at night in the desert.

It's also always wise to tell someone else where you're going. The Jacob's Crosscut and Siphon Draw Trail is relatively short and easy to follow, but for safety reasons, someone else should always know where you are headed and when you plan to come back anytime you go on a hike.

Once you have gathered your things and are prepared and have made your way to Lost Dutchman State Park, it's time to hit the trail!

The Jacob's Crosscut and Siphon Draw Trail is rated easy, and it is 2.3 miles in length. You'll only gain 167 feet of elevation along the way, and it should take you under an hour to complete it. This trail is quite popular overall, but you may find it less busy at night. You can bring your dog along on this trail, but please keep it on a leash at all times.

You might start your hike a bit before the sun goes down to experience it a bit while daylight remains. This trail offers spectacular views of the Superstition Mountains, and along the way, there are numerous beautiful rock formations. You can expect to see some wildlife, too — many of the animals that have hidden out during the hottest parts of the day will emerge to eat, hunt, and explore. You might see desert mule deer, desert cottontails, lizards, birds, and more.

As you head out on the trail, you can watch the sun set over the horizon. Many people avoid this trail in the middle of the summer because it offers little shade, but that's not a problem during a night hike. In fact, it's a bonus — the lack of trees along this hike means that you will be able to take in a full panoramic view of the night sky with few obstructions.

The full Buck Moon will light your path. But if you wait for it to set behind the Superstition Mountains, you'll be treated to a sky full of stars. Certainly, you'll be able to see quite a few stars before the moon sets, but once it does, you can expect to see even more.

Night hikes are so special and memorable. You're sure to love this one near Phoenix. Plan your night adventure today! The Jacob's Crosscut and Siphon Draw Trail in Lost Dutchman State Park is incredible at any time, but under the Buck Moon, it's even more amazing. Happy trails to you!