Experience the beauty of the night sky over Horseshoe Lake under the new moon, where the absence of moonlight allows the stars to shine even brighter. Join us for a guided hike through the oak woodlands and open meadows of Upper Bidwell Park, with Horseshoe Lake as our scenic backdrop. Each hike features themed storytelling, weaving together myths and legends about the constellations with explorations of nocturnal plant and animal adaptations.

To ensure a full experience and to protect local wildlife, please leave pets and strollers at home. While all are welcome, these hikes are designed more for adults. We recommend bringing a Star Finder app and a headlamp with a red-light option to preserve night vision. The hikes last between 1 and 1.5 hours, depending on the group’s pace and interests.

Instructor: Oscar Rodriguez
Location: Horseshoe Lake, at the Chico Community Observatory parking lot

Ages: 5+ and must be accompanied by an adult 
Fee: $5 per participant   

The Celestial Hunter

Hear the tales of Orion the Hunter and the great chase across the sky as we hike under a new moon.

Course #14492
Sat | 3/29 | 8:00 - 9:30 PM Register Online 

Spring Constellations & Myths of Renewal

Explore the spring constellations like Leo and Virgo while hearing stories of renewal and rebirth from ancient cultures.

Course #14493
Sun | 4/27 | 8:30 - 10:00 PM Register Online 

Hercules and the Stars: Myths of Courage

Join us under the stars at Horseshoe Lake for a night dedicated to Hercules, the mythic strongman who overcame impossible challenges. Learn about his famous Twelve Labors as we view the Hercules constellation shining overhead.

Course #14494
Mon | 5/26 | 9:00 - 10:30 PM Register Online 

Summer Myths of the Sky

Discover the myths of Scorpius, and Sagittarius as we explore how these constellations were woven into stories of heroes, monsters, and gods.

Course #14495
Wed | 6/25 | 9:00 - 10:30 PM Register Online 

Summer Constellations and Their Stories

Join us for a night of storytelling as we explore the vibrant summer constellations visible in the night sky, such as Cygnus, Lyra, and Aquila. Each of these constellations is rich with myths and cultural significance.

Course #14496
Thu | 7/24 | 9:00 - 10:30 PM Register Online