One of my favorite parts about Grand Canyon river trips is that crazy moon — whether it’s a lack of moon or a spectacular moon rise or a blinding moon, the night sky always impresses. I think it’s fun to check out a moon calendar before my trips, to see what kind of view I might be in for on my whitewater vacation. However, I would caution you against planning your trip specifically around a particular moon phase, because all the phases are worth seeing! If you’re lucky enough to be in Grand Canyon when there is no moon, your view of the Milky Way will be truly unparalleled. And if you’re lucky enough to be in the canyon during any other phase of the moon, you are in for one heck of a treat when the moon rises over the canyon walls and bathes the river and rocks in its light.  Some people (myself included) actually have a hard time sleeping through a full moon, because the light is so powerful. If you’re a light sleeper, and you know there will be a big moon on your river trip, you might even consider bringing a sleep mask. Regardless of what the moon might be doing while you’re on the river, enjoy it! It’s likely a once-in-a-lifetime view.

Any moon phase is an incredible moon phase in Grand Canyon.