The Harvest Moon is one of the most breathtaking sights of autumn, and in Full Moon October 2025, it’s set to be even more spectacular as it doubles as the first Supermoon of the year.
For Americans who love stargazing or photography, finding the perfect viewing spot can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to the best locations across the U.S. where you can witness the Harvest Moon rise in all its golden glory.
1. National Parks with Wide Horizons
- Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona – Watch the moonrise over the canyon rim for unforgettable views.
- Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho – Minimal light pollution and vast open skies.
- Everglades National Park, Florida – Stunning reflections of the moon on the water make for gorgeous photos.
2. Mountain Viewpoints
- Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina/Virginia – Offers panoramic autumn scenery and crisp, clear skies.
- Mount Rainier, Washington – The snow-capped peak and the moon together create an iconic fall scene.
- Pikes Peak, Colorado – High elevation provides clearer views above city haze.
3. Scenic Coastal Spots
- Cape Cod, Massachusetts – Watch the golden moon rising over the Atlantic.
- Big Sur, California – Rugged cliffs and ocean horizon amplify the moon illusion effect.
- Cannon Beach, Oregon – The moon often appears massive near the horizon thanks to the sea-level view.
4. Desert Landscapes
- Monument Valley, Utah/Arizona – Iconic red rock silhouettes with the moon behind them.
- Joshua Tree National Park, California – Famous for its dark skies and unique desert foregrounds.
- White Sands National Park, New Mexico – The bright gypsum dunes reflect moonlight beautifully.
5. City Skylines for Urban Moonrise
- Brooklyn Bridge Park, New York City – Capture the Harvest Moon rising behind the Manhattan skyline.
- Chicago’s Lakefront Trail, Illinois – A popular urban spot for lake reflections and skyline photos.
- San Francisco’s Twin Peaks, California – Elevated city views with the moon glowing above the Bay.
Tips for the Best Experience
- Arrive early to secure a clear spot before moonrise.
- Use a moon-tracking app like Sky Guide or Time and Date to check local rise times.
- Bring a tripod and zoom lens if you’re photographing the Harvest Supermoon.
- Avoid areas with bright city lights for clearer skies and better contrast.
Closing
Wherever you are in the U.S., the Harvest Moon offers a magical moment to step outdoors and appreciate nature’s seasonal beauty.
With the Full Moon October 2025 shining brighter and larger than usual, these top locations provide the perfect backdrop to witness one of autumn’s most iconic celestial events.
