On October 14, 2023, residents and visitors alike across a wide path sweeping from the coast of Oregon to the Gulf of Mexico on the coast of Texas will get to experience an annular solar eclipse.
Unlike the recent solar eclipse that crossed the U.S. back in 2017—the first that had occurred in the Lower 48 since 1979—the 2023 event won’t be a total solar eclipse. Instead, the moon passing in front of the sun will create the famous “ring of fire” effect.
If you’re thinking about planning a fall visit to our Zion resort, visiting on and around October 14 is a great choice. Not only will you get to see the annular solar eclipse right here from Cliffrose Lodge, but you’ll also get to experience the unique fall season in Zion National Park. Keep reading to learn more about the eclipse and how to see it, and how to plan your fall visit to our Springdale resort.
What is an Annular Solar Eclipse?
Before you start planning your fall stay at our Zion resort, it’s important to understand what you can expect during the eclipse.
An annular solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the earth and the sun. Unlike a total solar eclipse, when the moon completely covers the sun and blocks out its light, during an annular eclipse, the moon covers only a portion. This is because the moon is at its furthest point away from the earth in its orbit.
Because of this, the moon appears much smaller than it does during a total solar eclipse. The result is that the sun is largely blocked out, with only a ring of light around the edges of the moon. This light is what created the famous “ring of fire” that this type of eclipse is known for.
Viewing the Annular Solar Eclipse on October 14, 2023
As luck would have it, the upcoming annular solar eclipse is set to cross the skies of Southern Utah. The eclipse will first begin to be visible in Southern Utah at 9 a.m. MDT. The moon will move fully into position around 10:20 a.m., and will exit the position by around noon.
Whether you live in the path of the upcoming eclipse and want to get a better view by heading into Zion or you’re visiting from outside of the path, our Zion resort is a great spot to experience this unique event.
The “ring of fire” is a sight to see, but so are the unique colors and shadows that will occur when the skies suddenly become almost as dark as night in the middle of the day. Zion National Park will be a great spot to watch the eclipse, because you’ll be able to experience the sudden darkness and the shadows that it creates with a backdrop of the park’s incredible peaks.
However, this is likely to be a busy day in the park. If you still want to experience this unique view without fighting a line of people trying to hop on a Zion Canyon Shuttle or make their way into the park in a vehicle, consider booking a Springdale resort with views of Zion’s peaks.
Cliffrose Lodge is a great spot to view the eclipse. You’ll be able to step just outside of your private patio, or walk out from your building onto our beautiful grounds. From there, find a spot out from under one of our shade trees, and watch as the eclipse dowses Zion’s peaks in darkness.
Safely Viewing the Annular Solar Eclipse
Viewing an annular solar eclipse could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Doing so safely is of utmost importance. Staring directly at the sun, even when the light is partially blocked, can cause permanent damage to your eyes.
To enjoy the annular solar eclipse from our Zion resort safely, follow these tips:
- Don’t rely on sunglasses: Sunglasses, including those with polarization, will NOT protect your eyes during a solar eclipse, and should not be used to view one.
- Wear protective eyewear: Invest in a pair of solar viewing glasses or a solar eclipse viewer. These are designed to block out harmful UV rays whale still allowing you to view the eclipse
- Build a pinhole projector: If you can’t get solar eclipse viewing glasses, you can build a pinhole projector to protect your eyes and let you still see the eclipse.
- Never look directly at the sun: Before, during, and after the eclipse, never look directly at the sun.
Planning Your Stay at Our Zion Resort for the Eclipse
If you’re looking to experience the upcoming annular solar eclipse, there’s no better place to do so than at our Zion hotel. Cliffrose Lodge is a great spot to view the eclipse’s effect on Zion’s peaks without having to fight traffic and crowds to enter the park. Plus, you’ll get to experience the beautiful fall season at our Springdale resort! Book your stay at our resort today to experience this unique season and the upcoming solar event!