Superstition Mountains cougar shadow appears only a few days a year

^{Photographers gather at 4th Ave & Goldfield Road in Apache Junction, AZ to get pics of the Superstition Mountains Cougar. Photo credit: Paul Fiarkoski for AZ Wonders}

By Paul Fiarkoski | AZ Wonders

A few days each year, for just a few minutes, the sun projects a larger-than-life shadow of a cougar chasing its prey on the Superstition Mountains east of Mesa. Timing is critical. This phenomenon only happens when the sun sets at just the right latitude on the western horizon.

In this post, you’ll learn when and where to experience the Superstition Mountains cougar shadow for yourself.

Where and when to view the Superstition Mountains cougar shadow

1. If you want to see this phenomenon in person, head to the vicinity of Superstition Blvd and Goldfield Road in Apache Junction for a relatively unobstructed view.
2. Timing is critical. The cougar only appears during the third week of March and September.
3. The last 30 minutes before official sunset is prime time for viewing.

#1 rule of enjoying nature: Leave only footprints, take only pictures.

Viewing tips:

• There is a wide shoulder on the east side of Goldfield Rd (opposite the homes) where you can pull off to view the cougar and take pictures.
• Check the forecast before you go. The cougar shadow is usually only visible if the western sky (where the sun sets) is free of clouds.
• Be respectful of people who live in the area by keeping music and voices at a low volume. And of course, leave no trace that you were there.

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Time-lapse image of the cougar taking shape then disappearing as daylight fades:

The picture of the Superstition Mountains Cougar above was taken from the open space access point at 4th Ave & Goldfield Road in Apache Junction, AZ on September 17, 2018.

Video: Where to catch the Superstition Mountains Cougar

Come along to see how, where and when to view the Superstition Mountains cougar shadow in this YouTube video I filmed in 2018:

Check out the blog post on AZ Wonders