How to view fleeting Cougar Shadow in mountains east of Phoenix area

PHOENIX — You’ve heard of cloudgazing, but how about shadowviewing? Twice a year in Arizona, the setting sun casts a striking silhouette over the Superstition Mountains that looks like a mountain lion resting on its side.

Locals call it the Cougar Shadow, and it’s been a favorite seasonal sight for years. The shadow is only visible for one week each in spring and fall during the equinoxes.

This spring, it should appear March 15-21, with the best viewing window between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m., according to Visit Mesa.

Plan to arrive about 30 minutes before sunset to watch the shape slowly form as the light moves across the rugged terrain.

Where to view Cougar Shadow in Mesa

The most popular and easily accessible viewing spot is near Superstition Boulevard and Goldfield Road, where a wide shoulder on the east side of Goldfield offers space to pull over and take photos.

Just note that the shadow isn’t visible from inside Lost Dutchman State Park.

You may have to squint at first, but once you see it, you’ll understand why the Cougar Shadow has become celebrated as one of the Valley’s most unique natural phenomena.

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