News Release

Tonto National Monument "Park After Dark" Event Series 2018

Date: December 28, 2017
Contact: Eric Schreiner, [phone]

Roosevelt, AZ - Explore the wonders of the night with Tonto National Monument at the "Park After Dark" 2018 Event Series. Night sky events will include star gazing, interpretive astronomy programs, telescope viewing with astronomers from the Phoenix Astronomical Society, and Junior Ranger Night Explorer activities for kids. Night hike events will include a guided interpretive hike to the Lower Cliff Dwelling after dark. 

Bring water and snacks, a flashlight or headlamp (preferably with a red light or red gel filter for better night sky observation), warm clothing, and closed toed shoes. These events are free and open to the public. Join us at the Visitor Center parking lot. 

"Park After Dark" Event Schedule

Saturday, January 13, 2018 - Stellar Stars - 7:00-9:00 p.m.
What do you see when you look up at the sky at night? Stars! Learn about the life phases of stars, major stars in our galaxy, and the constellations in which they are found. Join astronomers from the Phoenix Astronomical Society and park rangers after the program for telescope viewing and constellation tours. 

Saturday, February 3, 2018 - Nocturnal Neighbors - 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Tonto National Monument provides invaluable habitat for a variety of wildlife and a number of nocturnal creatures. Hike to the Lower Cliff Dwelling with a park ranger and learn about the diverse nocturnal wildlife that call Tonto home. 

Saturday, February 17, 2018 - Ancient Skies: Early Astronomy - 7:00-9:00 p.m.
For thousands of years, humans all over the world have looked to the night sky for guidance. Discover the various ways people throughout history have used the stars and sky to live and thrive. Learn about the discoveries night sky pioneers of the past have brought to modern astronomy! Join astronomers from the Phoenix Astronomical Society and park rangers after the program for telescope viewing and constellation tours. 

Saturday, April 14, 2018 - Our Solar System and Beyond - 7:00-9:00 p.m.
You have heard of Jupiter and Mars, but do you know how these planets fit into our solar system? What is the sun? Explore the solar system and all of its components! Join astronomers from the Phoenix Astronomical Society and park rangers after the program for telescope viewing and constellation tours.

Saturday April 28, 2018 - Bats! - 7:00-9;00 p.m.
How many species of bats are found at Tonto National Monument? What do bats eat? Where do bats like to sleep? Hike to the Lower Cliff Dwelling with a park ranger and discover more bat facts!

No camping is available at Tonto National Monument. The nearest camping is available at Windy Hill Campground in Tonto National Forest. For more information on camping visit http://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto/

For more information contact:
[phone] and e-mail us
or visit:
https://www.nps.gov/tont
https://www.facebook.com/TontoNPS
https://www.instagram.com/TontoNPS