Photo courtesy of Pixabay.
Photo courtesy of Pixabay.
Although over 100 people attended the 2018 Moonlight Walk, they came in waves and were able to check in quickly and hit the trail. Photo by Leslie David.
Although over 100 people attended the 2018 Moonlight Walk, they came in waves and were able to check in quickly and hit the trail. Photo by Leslie David.
Once checked in, people could set their own pace and go when they wanted. Photo by Leslie David.
Once checked in, people could set their own pace and go when they wanted. Photo by Leslie David.
Retired teacher Jim Ostdick effectively explained the moon's orbit using kids to demonstrate for the crowd. Photo by Mary Paxton.
Retired teacher Jim Ostdick effectively explained the moon’s orbit using kids to demonstrate for the crowd. Photo by Mary Paxton.

This article was contributed by REACH President Valerie Egland.

REACH San Benito Parks Foundation and BenitoLink.com, San Benito’s local nonprofit news are collaborating again for the second annual Moonlight Walk on the de Anza Trail, set to take place March 19 at 5:30 p.m.

The hike is free to the public and involves a long, gradually uphill portion that overlooks San Juan Valley. It is open to all ages and walkers can go at their own pace.

REACH asks that you sign up on the REACH Facebook page so we know how many participants to expect, and recommends arriving early (before 5:30 p.m.) to start the walk. Participants should arrive near the second bench (approximately two miles from the start) as the moon rises and the sun sets. Below is information from MoonInfo.org, where you can learn about the Moon Phase and Sun Phase when heading out on any adventure.

Moon Phase 3/19/19: Waxing Gibbous

  • Illumination: 98%
  • Moon Distance: 364,452.882 km
  • Moonrise: 18:09:20 (6:09pm)
  • Sun Distance: 148,979,053.389 km
  • Sunset: 19:17:52 (7:18pm)
  • Golden Hour Starts: 18:43:36 (6:44pm)
  • Length of day: 12h 02m 38s

Reminder: Wear warm layers of clothing, carry no flashlights unless red light (so you don’t disrupt the moonlight glow) and bring a water bottle. Some snacks will be on-hand, along with emergency water and Band-Aids.  REACH members expect to station themselves along the trail to offer assistance. Leave no trash and respect the neighboring land owners and livestock.

Walkers can pause as they head home down the trail. Be prepared for cool weather with jacket, sweaters and warm gloves. (Photo by Leslie David)

To learn more, check the REACH San Benito Parks Foundation Facebook page and BenitoLink.com for updates if the weather seems ominous.

For more information contact Valerie Egland  (831) 601-5154 or email:  info@reachsanbenito.org.