Go on a full-moon walk

A full moon hike is simpler than it sounds. You pick a trail you already know, wait for a clear night and go for a walk by moonlight. On a clear winter night a full moon is bright enough to cast shadows, and the world looks silvery and quiet. It’s an evening plan that costs nothing, and it works best with a friend.

Pick the night

You need a full moon and a clear sky. Look up when the next full moon is and check the forecast for cloud a day or two ahead, then again that afternoon. A cloudy night hides the moon, so keep a backup night, as the moon looks nearly full for a night either side of the exact date.

A full moon rises around sunset, so you can start soon after dark. The moon looks big and low when it’s near the horizon, and it climbs as the night goes on. For an easy first time, go early in the evening.

Pick the trail

This is the most important part. For a night walk:

• Choose a well-known, easy trail. One you’ve walked in daylight, with clear paths and no steep drops or water crossings.
• Prefer open ground. Fields, hillsides, beaches and wide paths get more moonlight. Dense woods are very dark, even with a full moon.
• Check that it’s open. Some parks close at sunset. Look at the rules before you go.
• Keep it short. An hour or two, out and back, is plenty.

If you’d prefer to stay close to home, a park or a quiet street you know works well. Familiar routes feel safer, and they’re lovely in a different light.

Safety first

• Go with a friend, as the catalogue says. It’s safer, and it’s more fun.
• Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
• Carry a light, and spare batteries. A headlamp keeps your hands free.
• Charge your phone. Keep it in an inside pocket, since cold drains batteries.
• Watch the ground. Roots, rocks and ice are hard to see by moonlight. Walk slowly.
• Stay on the trail, and turn back if clouds come in or you feel unsure.
• Respect wildlife. Animals are more active at night. Stay calm, give them space and don’t approach.
• Dress for the cold. It drops quickly after dark.

What to wear and bring

• Warm layers, a hat, gloves and thick socks
• Boots or shoes with good grip
• A headlamp or a flashlight
• A thermos of something warm, and a snack
• A small first aid kit and some water, if you’re going further
• Binoculars, if you like. The moon’s craters look great through them.

How to do it

1. Go out at moonrise or soon after, in the last light of dusk.
2. Start with your light on until you’re on the path, then turn it off once you can see.
3. Walk slowly, and let your eyes adjust for a few minutes.
4. Notice your shadow, the silver on the ground and how quiet it feels.
5. Stop somewhere open and stand still for a bit. Look up.
6. Share the thermos, and talk, or don’t.
7. Walk back with your light on if the path gets dark.

What goes wrong

• Clouds cover the moon. Wait a few minutes, or turn on your light and head back. Try again another night.
• It’s too dark under the trees. Use your light, or choose a more open route next time.
• You’re cold. Keep moving and add a layer. Take a short walk rather than a long one.
• You’re nervous. Choose a busier, shorter route and go with someone. That’s a perfectly good version.
• Ice on the path. Take small steps, or choose a different route.
• You can’t see the trail. Stop, use your light and go back the way you came.

Keep it

Take a photo if you like, though phones struggle with the moon. A better keepsake is the memory: write a line about it when you get home, or note the date and the route. Next month’s moon will give you another reason to go.

Make it a winter evening

Eat dinner early, go out as the moon rises and be home for hot chocolate. A full moon walk goes well with a sky evening: once you’re out in the dark, find Orion while you stop to look up.