Superstition Mountains cougar shadow appears only a few days a year

A few days each year, for just a few minutes, a shadow on the Superstition Mountains east of Mesa depicts what appears to be a cougar chasing its prey.

(Post updated Sept. 18, 2018)

When and where to view the Superstitions Mountains cougar shadow

1. Timing is critical. The cougar only appears during the third week of March and September. The last thirty minutes before the official sunset time is prime time for viewing.
2. If you want to see this phenomenon in person, head to the vicinity of Superstition Blvd and Goldfield Road in Apache Junction for a relatively unobstructed view.

#1 rule of enjoying nature: Leave only footprints, take only pictures.

There is a wide shoulder on the east side of Goldfield Rd (opposite the homes) where you can pull off to view the cougar and take pictures. Please be respectful of people who live in the area by keeping music and voices at a low volume.

The picture of the Superstition Mountains Cougar below was taken from the open space access point at 4th Ave and Goldfield Road in Apache Junction, AZ on September 17, 2018.

Time lapse image of the cougar taking shape then disappearing as daylight fades:

Come along to see how, where and when to view the Superstition Mountains cougar shadow in this YouTube video I filmed in 2018:

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↓ Tap the map below for a good spot to view the Superstition Mountains cougar shadow