The Town of Fountain Hills and Night Sky Tourist announce three Dark Sky events in June that will help visitors connect to the night sky and enjoy the outdoors with respite from Arizona’s triple-digit days.

“While the Arizona heat may feel unbearable during the day, these events allow us to enjoy the desert’s beauty when temperatures are comfortable and safe enough to be outside,” said Vicky Derksen, Night Sky Tourist founder. “Our aim is to inspire, educate and connect Arizonans and visitors alike with the beauty of the night sky and the Sonoran Desert, regardless of the time of year.”

The June event schedule kicks off with back-to-back quiet and meditative walks for the Full Strawberry Moon on June 10 and 11 from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. During these free events, participants will complete an almost one-mile round-trip hike on uneven desert terrain with rocks and natural obstacles that require careful footing in low light. It’s an opportunity to engage the five senses and exercise night vision exploring the shapes and patterns of the desert under moonlight.

The Full Strawberry Moon Walks are suitable for ages 12 and up. Guests must bring water, closed-toed shoes and red flashlights only. Space is limited.

For those wanting to enjoy the splendor of the Sonoran Desert in the day, a free Summer Solstice Sunrise Hike will take place on June 20 from 5:30 to 7 a.m. During the hike, guests will kick off the longest day of the year with the opportunity to observe how light transforms the landscape and activates the desert’s morning rhythms. The trail is approximately two miles round-trip on uneven desert terrain with rocks and natural obstacles that require steady footing.

Early morning temperatures will be comfortable, but the hike involves moderate elevation gain so bringing plenty of water, wearing sturdy closed-toe hiking shoes and dressing in layers is highly encouraged. The hike is suitable for ages 12 and up.

Registration for both events is required. Registration can be completed through nightskytourist.com/events/.

To learn more about the events and to sign up, please visit nightskytourist.com. For more information about events in Fountain Hills visit experiencefountainhills.org.