Granite Springs Trail Camp - The Blood Moon Rises Once Again

We hiked 11 miles in two days, and I could feel every step in my legs. It was really hot on the way up—so hot that my shirt stuck to my back and I kept wishing for shade. The trail felt like it would never end, we took it slow and had snacks. I was excited, because I knew we were going somewhere special.

We camped at a primitive spot called Granite Springs Trail Camp. It wasn’t fancy—just some flat ground, trees, and the sound of the wind—but that’s what made it feel like real camping. When we dropped our packs and set up the tent, I felt proud we’d made it.

That night was the part I’ll never forget. There was a lunar eclipse. At first the moon was so bright it lit up the whole campsite, almost like it was daytime. But then the shadow started to slide across it. I lay on my back, staring up, while the white circle slowly turned a reddish-orange.

I knew from school that the Earth was blocking the sun’s light, but it still felt like magic. The stars came out brighter than I’d ever seen them, like they had been hiding until the moon stepped aside.

When the moon was fully covered, glowing red above the trees, I felt small and lucky at the same time. Lying there, hot and tired but amazed, I knew I’d never forget the night the moon disappeared and came back again.

The next morning we hiked to the top of Oakzanita Peak on the way out. It was a long day, but by the time I got back to the car. I was already wondering when we’d be able to backpack again.