Located on the southeast edge of the Valley, the Superstition Mountains are home to legendary gold and lots of wildlife. Take a hike, and you might be lucky enough to spot javelina, coyotes and bighorn sheep. Maybe a bobcat or a bear. You never know.
But twice a year, it's a sure bet that you’ll see a cougar lurking in the shadows.
From Sept. 15-19, the light and the jagged volcanic cliffs will line up just right to cast a shadow that resembles a cougar as the sun sets between 5:30-6 p.m.
Timing is important because the shape of a crouching cougar chasing its prey will only be viewable for 20-30 minutes.
This rare event has been visible for generations but it was brought into the spotlight in the 2010s by nature photographers.
Officials say one of the best viewpoints is near the intersection of Superstition Boulevard and Goldfield Road in Apache Junction.
The cougar shadow will return near the spring equinox in March. Visit Mesa has a guide for people who want to view the shadow.
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