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Murray Farm Moonlight, 28 February, 2026
 
The 28 Feb Moonlight Snowshoe unfortunately lacked both moonlight and snow. Undeterred, six Cache Hikers met at Smith's at 6 pm, and proceeded to the Murray Farm Trailhead where they were joined by two more.  Due to the almost complete lack of snow on the trail, everyone opted to wear boots without "Microspikes" (trail crampons).  The weather was mild for the end of February, but a high cloud layer completely obscured the moon for the majority of the hike, although brief glimpses could be found every once in a while.
 
The group proceeded up the south edge of Narrow Canyon amongst the trees for approximately one mile to the trail junction, then returned down the canyon via the mid- canyon trail. Trail conditions were muddy and slick on the outbound leg, although not terribly so, and the inbound leg had plenty of mostly dry footing adjacent to the trail.  Near the mouth of the canyon, the hikers diverted north and climbed up to the top of the bench to enjoy a nice clear view of Cache Valley at night.  A conveniently placed railroad tie served as a nice seat while snacks were consumed, and the evening ended with a bonus private fireworks display south of the trailhead in Mt. Sterling.  Although not anywhere near the planned evening snowshoe, a pleasant time was had.

Trip Summary:
  • 8 participants, Dave W, Jane, Ralph, Bruce, Sue, Brent J, Lynne and Brent J (leader)
  • Drove 15 miles to the Murray Farm Trailhead
  • Started hiking about 6:30 pm, returned to the trailhead about 8:30 pm
  • Sky obscured by a high overcast layer that offered only occasional views of the moon, and artificial lights were required
  • Calm winds and comfortable (above freezing) temperatures, trails were clear of snow and generally muddy, but decent footling was available by walking next to the trail itself.
  • Hiked about 1.9 miles and 360 ft. ascending (1.4 miles and 290 feet for the ambler)

Thanks to Brent J for the narrative, Sue and Jane for photos, Dave W for GPS data, and Ralph for photos and GPS data



Starting out from the Murray Farm Trailhead

Hiking up through the trees on the south side of the Narrow Canyon meadow

Using a red headlight to help preserve night vision

Hiking down the meadow trail
Observing the moonlit scene from the "bench"

Cache Valley and the Bear River Range, as seen from the "bench" above Murray Farm Trailhead

There were fireworks to the south
 We occasionally glimpsed the moon through the clouds

Our GPS track (red) shows about 1.9 miles and 360 feet of ascent, the "ambler" track (blue) was about 1.4 miles with 290 feet of ascent. You can look at our route using Google Earth or download our GPS file.