philmont trek 9 6

• 12-day Treks
• 9-day Treks
• 7-day Treks

Trail Segments [clear]

Only trail segments between camps and / or trailheads are listed. If a path passes through another camp, you would have to search for each segment individually. For example, from Cyphers Mine to Clarks Fork, you would pass through Hunting Lodge. The path from Cyphers Mine to Clarks Fork would then be made up from the trail segments for both Cyphers Mine to Hunting Lodge and Hunting Lodge to Clarks Fork.

About 'Build-a-Path' (Premium feature)

Phil Trek is an invaluable resource for past and present Philmont 12-day, 9-day, or 7-day trek information. Developed to assist in the selection of an ideal itinerary by filtering the complete range of itineraries down to a manageable list based on the crew's preferred program activities or locations.

Each itinerary includes the standard descriptive information, with visualization of trails and camps on a live map including an interactive elevation profile. Multiple itineraries can be overlaid on a single map to compare. Contingents with multiple crews can determine rendezvous locations and overlay the itineraries that meet at that location to assist in selection.

Phil Trails provides detailed information about each trail segment including a live map of the trail, starting and ending elevations, the minimum and maximum elevations covered, the trail segment length, and an elevation profile.

Premium access to Phil Trek and Phil Trails adds the ability to download paths, camps, and trails in kml format for use in many GPS applications.

Philmont Legacy is a sister-site which documents the Philmont Staff legacy boards created by the seasonal staff of Philmont Scout Ranch.

Special Thanks

• Bradley R. for helping with the new menu interface.
• Phil W. for the Route Options idea.

Welcome to Build-a-Trail

This premium feature provides the ability to select multiple trail segments and create a single path from them.

When you have added and organized the trail segments as desired, click the Build Path button to generate the path. The combined path can then be downloaded using the Download KML button.

This site uses wide tables and maps, making it non-functional on narrow mobile devices. Please switch to a wider screen.

Warning! This database may not match the latest documents published by Philmont Scout Ranch. This is provided for reference and as a research aid only! Always consult the latest official documentation .

Philmont Scout Ranch Explained: A Scout’s Best Prep Guide

If you’re enticed by the rugged, mountainous West, Philmont provides the Scouting adventure of a lifetime. In this article, I’ll be filling you in on everything you’ll need to know about this legendary high-adventure base — from the perspective of an Eagle Scout who’s been there and done it! 🙂

Written by Eagle Scout and pro outdoor journalist, Owen Clarke. Cole here — I asked Owen to share his experience on ScoutSmarts, as he’s a true expert in outdoor adventuring and attended Philmont with his troop in the past!  You can learn more about Owen’s work at his website,  oclarke.com .

Almost every Scout knows that there’s no Scouting adventure more famous than Philmont Scout Ranch ! As an adult, the two questions I am most often asked when people find out I was a Scout are: 1) Did you earn Eagle? and 2) Did you go to Philmont? Luckily, I can answer YES to both! 

Philmont Ranch covers 140,177 acres of rugged wilderness in the Sangre de Cristo mountains of northern New Mexico. A whopping 20,000 Scouts visit Philmont every summer! By size, Philmont is one of the largest youth camps in the entire world.

Owen Here: In this article, I’ll give you the lowdown on Philmont, to help you decide if this high-adventure base is right for you. You’ll learn a few insider secrets I discovered during my time there, too! That way, you’ll come to Philmont prepared to have the best adventure imaginable!

Philmont is one of Scouting’s four high-adventure bases (the others are Northern Tier in Minnesota, Florida Sea Base in Florida, and Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia), but it’s by far the most popular. It’s also the oldest high-adventure base in Scouting, in operation since 1938! 

In addition to the Ranch, Philmont is home to the National Scouting Museum, the Philmont Training Center, and the Seton Memorial Library . When visiting Philmont, you’ll participate in tons of exciting Scouting activities and learn cool lore, so this article is aimed at helping you to be prepared to make the most of your time!

FUN FACT: The world’s ONLY confirmed Tyrannosaurus rex track was found at Philmont, back in 1983 by American geologist Charles Pillmore. Only Scouts at Philmont can access the remote site where the track was found, via the “T-Rex Trail.”

What Should You Expect at Philmont?

Like Florida Sea Base and the other high-adventure bases in Scouting, Philmont offers a variety of different programs, called “treks.” Traditional treks are backpacking expeditions into the Philmont wilderness. 

You and your crew will pack into the rugged Cimarron Mountains, traveling by foot for seven to 12 days as you explore the peaks, canyons, forests, rivers, and deserts of Philmont. You’ll be accompanied by a Philmont Ranger for your first three days, but after that, you’re on your own — that’s right, you’ll need to navigate all by yourself!!

Depending on your itinerary, you’ll participate in a variety of activities in Philmont’s backcountry camps, such as rifle shooting, rock climbing, blacksmithing, fly fishing, and mountain biking. During your trek, you’ll hike anywhere from 50 to 120 miles.

NOTE FROM OWEN: Traditional treks aren’t your only option. There are a total of fifteen alternate adventures at Philmont. On the “Trail Crew” trek, you’ll work with the Philmont Conservation Department, learning to plan conservation projects. During the “Ranch Hands” trek, you’ll work with Philmont’s horse department, taking care of over 300 horses and burros. On the STEM trek, you’ll practice science, technology, engineering, and math in the backcountry!

In the next sections I’ll be covering tips, packing requirements and FAQ’s about Philmont, but first I’d recommend you watch the amazing documentary (16:54) below. This vlog-style video paints a great picture of what a standard (and amazing!) Philmont trek will look and feel like. 😀

6 Tips for Your Philmont Adventure

1. be ready for elevation.

There’s no other way to say it… Philmont is MOUNTAINOUS! Not all treks are the same, but it doesn’t matter where you are in Philmont, you’ll be doing steep hikes and descents. Especially if you’re planning to climb peaks like Mt. Baldy (12,441 feet) and the Tooth of Time (9,003 feet), make sure your mountain legs are ready to roll. 

NOTE FROM OWEN: I grew up in Alabama, so when I visited Philmont, I had never been above 2,000 feet before (except for a short trip to Denver). Practice for Philmont by tackling hikes with lots of vertical gain and decline, and you’ll be in great shape to crush it on the trail when you arrive!

2. Bring Cards and Games

Although you’ll spend most of your time on the trail or participating in activities at backcountry camps, you’ll still have free time. I don’t think I’ve ever played as many games of cards in my entire life as I did at Philmont!

Bringing playing cards, mini chess and checkers sets, or other games to play with your crewmates is a great way to keep your mind sharp and entertained during relaxing afternoons at camp. Remember, electronics are discouraged at Philmont, so no video games. 😛

3. Yes, it Rains!

Just because Philmont is in the Southwest doesn’t mean it doesn’t rain. Daily afternoon thunderstorms are common in the Rocky Mountains during the summer. (Luckily, they usually don’t last long.) One of the biggest mistakes you can make at Philmont is forgetting rain gear or expecting it to be dry for most of your trek. 

My younger brother visited Philmont last summer, and it rained every single day during his trek! Every. Single. Day. He still had a great time, and most treks don’t get this much rain… but the point is you should be prepared for a bit of wet weather! 

NOTE FROM OWEN: When I was at Philmont, my tentmate and I woke up after a rainstorm the evening before and found our tent sitting in a pool of water almost one foot deep! All of our gear was completely soaked. Luckily, it was our last day on the trail…

4. Be Bear Prepared

Philmont is in the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness, and there are lots of black bears. Bears rarely bother Scouts, but if you haven’t camped in bear country before, you should be prepared to follow strict bear-safe protocols.

This means you’ll hang all your smellables in a “bear bag” each night, including toothpaste, deodorant, and even food waste from meals. For campers who aren’t used to bear protocols, this may seem like overkill… but it’s not! Trust me, you don’t want a bear poking around your campsite. 

5. Don’t Overpack

I discuss this in the FAQ section below, but make sure not to overpack . For most Scouts (myself included) Philmont is BY FAR the longest backpacking trip you’ll go on. Overpacking on a one-night or two-night backpacking trip is annoying, but not a huge deal. Overpacking on a seven to 12-day trip like Philmont ruins the trip. 

You’ll have to carry that heavy pack for more than a week, and the extra pounds take their toll after a few days. Your full pack should weigh NO MORE than 25% to 30% of your body weight . That includes the crew gear Philmont provides when you arrive. Leave extra room! 

6. At Philmont… Scouts Take the Lead!

The coolest thing about Philmont is that it truly is a Scout-led adventure. Most Scout trips are supposed to be “Scout-led” but at Philmont, you’re really on your own. You’ll have a Ranger with you for the first three days of your trip, but after that, your crew is out in the wilderness alone, and you have to be able to navigate and survive!

Of course, you’ll have Scoutmasters or other adult advisors with you, but these adults are not familiar with the Philmont terrain either. It’s up to you and your fellow Scouts to chart a course and complete your route. Be prepared to LEAD! 😀

What Should You Bring to Philmont?

Your packing list at Philmont will change depending on the trek your crew chooses, but most treks revolve around a multi-night backpacking trip. Below is a general packing list for Philmont.

Remember, in addition to these personal items, your crew will need to bring communal crew gear, and you’ll also receive equipment at Philmont, like a nylon dining fly, dishwashing and cooking pots, and bear bags.

A Complete Philmont Packing List

Packs & bags.

• Backpack 65-75L (1x)
• Daypack (1x)  
• Lashing straps (2x) 
• Gallon Ziploc bags (6-12x)  
• Waterproof pack cover (1x) 
• Small stuff sacks (2-3x) 

Sleeping Gear

• 20-degree sleeping bag under 5 lbs w/ compression sack (1x)  
• Waterproof stuff sack (1x) 
• Sleeping pad (1x) 
• Sleeping clothes (1x)
• Wool or fleece hat (1x)
• Pair of gloves or mittens (1x)  
• Baseball cap or wide-brim hat (1x) 
• Long underwear top (1x)
• Long underwear bottom (1x) 
• Fleece pullover (1x) 
• Synthetic jacket/outer layer (1x)
• Rain jacket with hood (1x)  
• T-shirt (2x)  
• Long sleeve shirt (1x)  
• Rain paints (1x)
• Lightweight hiking pants (1x)
• Underwear (4x)
• Hiking shorts (2x) 

Miscellaneous Items

• Mug/cup (1x)  
• Water bottle (4x) 
• Pocket knife (1x)
• First Aid Kit (1x)
• Matches or lighter (1x)  
• Flashlight or headlamp (1x)
• Spare batteries 
• Trekking poles w/rubber tips (2x)
• Philmont Map (1x)
• Compass (1x)
• Bandana or tubular headgear, such as Buffs (2x) 
• Cash ($50+)
• Lip balm (1x)
• Biodegradable soap (1x)  
• Toothbrush and toothpaste (1x)  
• Quick-drying camp towel (1x)
• Personal medication  
• Sunglasses (1x)  
• Camera (1x)
• Emergency whistle (1x) 
• Pre-stamped postcards
• Foot Powder (1x)
• Notepad & pen (1x)
• Boots (1x) 
• Socks (4x) 
• Liner socks (3x) 
• Camp shoes (1x)

Frequently Asked Questions

What do you do at philmont.

The adventures you can have at Philmont are endless, from archaeology to burro packing to gold mining. Most Philmont treks are backpacking trips that are either seven days, nine days, or 12 days long.  

During your trek, you’ll hike 50 to 120 miles and participate in a variety of backcountry activities. You can check out the offered events, learn about the costs, and sign your troop up at Philmont’s official website !

What is the Philmont Grace?

Also known as the “Wilderness Grace,” the Philmont Grace is the prayer you’ll recite at Philmont Scout Ranch before meals and at other gatherings. Written in 1929 by ​​A.J. Fulkerson, the prayer has been used at Philmont since 1943, but it’s also popular at Scout camps around the country.

The Philmont Grace

For food, for raiment, For life, for opportunity, For friendship and fellowship, We thank thee, O Lord. Amen.

Can you go to Philmont Without Being a Scout?

You don’t have to be a Boy Scout to attend Philmont, you just have to be a registered member of the Boy Scouts of America. So Varsity teams, Sea Scout Ships, and Venturing crews can also attend Philmont! Philmont participants just need to be either 14 years old OR 13 years old and a graduate of 8th grade.

NOTE FROM OWEN: Philmont is probably the biggest and most exciting adventure in Scouting! It’s also not cheap, and it’s a lot of time away from home, so most Scouts can only attend once. I recommend saving Philmont for when you’re an experienced Scout. If possible, you should gain skills on many one and two-night backpacking trips before heading to Philmont.

Who Owned Philmont?

Philmont Scout Ranch was given to the Boy Scouts of America by American oil baron Waite Phillips in 1938. He donated his 127,000-acre ranch, with the only stipulation that it be used “for the benefit of the members of the Boy Scout organization.”

What is the Highest Point at Philmont?

Known for its rounded, “bald” summit, Baldy Mountain (12,441 feet) is the highest point in Philmont Scout Ranch and the highest peak in the entire Cimarron Range! Hiking the top of Mt. Baldy is a favorite memory for many Scouts at Philmont. 

NOTE FROM OWEN: For me, climbing Mt. Baldy sparked a lifelong love of mountaineering! Today, I’ve summited nearly 100 mountains higher than 14,000 feet around the world, and I’m an editor-at-large for Climbing magazine. Despite all my adventures, I’ll always remember Baldy as the first real mountain I ever climbed. Maybe you’ll enjoy hiking Baldy as much as I did! 

What is a Good Base Pack Weight for Philmont?

Every participant at Philmont carries their own pack. Your pack should never be more than 25% to 30% of your body weight. So if you weigh 120 lbs, your pack shouldn’t weigh more than 36 lbs. 

Remember, you’ll also carry crew gear, like the dining tarp and cook pot, so be sure to leave extra space before you head to Philmont! There are also height and weight requirements. If you’re 60 inches tall, you can’t weigh more than 166 pounds, for example. Before going, review the full health and medical requirements for Philmont.

Do you Earn Merit Badges at Philmont?

Merit badge classes are not offered at Philmont, but you can earn various merit badge requirements during your trek. If you want to count any of your Philmont activities towards your merit badge requirements when you come home, be sure to ask your crew advisor to provide written documentation that you completed the requirements!

What is the Weather Like at Philmont?

Daytime temperatures at Philmont during the summer are around 80°F to 90°F, but the air is dry, with low humidity. At night, temperatures drop significantly, sometimes as low as 40°F at higher elevations. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, but generally short.

NOTE FROM OWEN: While rain is usually brief, my little brother visited Philmont last summer, and it rained every single day! He and his crew were soaked. So, just like I said in Pro-Tip #3, don’t go to Philmont expecting it not to rain.

What Kind of Bears are in Philmont Scout Ranch?

Philmont Scout Ranch is home to black bears, but don’t worry. Black bears are among the more docile species of bear, much less aggressive than grizzlies or polar bears. Bears rarely bother Scouts, but they are common, and you do need to practice proper bear safety while at Philmont .

NOTE FROM OWEN: When I was at Philmont, a bear snuffed around outside our tent one night. In the morning, we found that it had left a massive, steaming pile of doo-doo right outside the tent door! The smell was awful, but luckily, it didn’t come inside…

How Many Scouts Have Been to Philmont?

Over 1 million Scouts, Venturers, and Advisors have visited Philmont since its first season in 1939. Approximately 22,000 Scouts and leaders visit the base each year, and those Scouts walk a TON of miles! 

For example, in 2019 Philmont Scouts and leaders hiked over 1,600,000 miles total. That’s over 3 trips to the moon and back!!

Any Scouting trip to Philmont will be absolutely legendary , so if you’re heading there soon, get ready to have a great time!  While I’ve shared my own experiences to help you be better prepared, make sure to carefully plan with your troop and do further research to have the best adventure possible. 😀

Also, be sure to check out Cole’s article on the Scouting Camping Essentials along with his Guide To The Camping Merit Badge . In them, you’ll learn some awesome gear and trek tips you might not have thought of to help you have an even better time at Philmont — or any campout for that matter!

Thanks for reading! I hope this article helps you out a ton, and that you have some amazing troop and Philmont adventures ahead .

Owen Clarke

Owen Clarke is an Eagle Scout from Troop 7343 Huntsville, AL. For Owen, Scouting inspired a lifelong love of the outdoors, adventure sports, and travel. Today he works as a journalist, writing for top outdoor publications.

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Itineraries

Philmont has 35 itineraries - the sequence of camps you must stay at each of the 12 nights on your trek . The route , or path, you take between those camps is largely up to you. The following links will show you several ways to view each itinerary and the practical routes between the camps. The links are divided into the categories Philmont uses to classify itineraries: from Challenging to Super Strenuous. Below each link is a short summary of the itinerary showing distance, estimated hiking time , and which sections of Philmont the itinerary covers.

The links take you to pages with different views of the itinerary selected. Pick the view you want from the tabs across the top of the page. The initial view is an outline map of the recommended routes and an elevation profile at the bottom of the page (you may need to scroll down). The Google Map tab shows the recommended routes on a Google topographic map you can zoom and pan as you wish. The Description tab is a table with specific information about each day with camp and route information including distance traveled, elevation gain and loss, and difficulty. The Routes tab will show you more detailed information about the recommended and alternate routes for each day of the itinerary. Finally, the Downloads tab is where to go to download GPX files for your GPS or take-along PDF files. For more help, check the How To Use the Philmont Trail Guide page.

Challenging

• Itinerary 1
• Itinerary 2
• Itinerary 3
• Itinerary 4
• Itinerary 5
• Itinerary 6
• Itinerary 7
• Itinerary 8
• Itinerary 9
• Itinerary 10
• Itinerary 11
• Itinerary 12
• Itinerary 13
• Itinerary 14
• Itinerary 15
• Itinerary 16
• Itinerary 17
• Itinerary 18
• Itinerary 19
• Itinerary 20
• Itinerary 21
• Itinerary 22
• Itinerary 23
• Itinerary 24
• Itinerary 25
• Itinerary 26
• Itinerary 27
• Itinerary 28
• Itinerary 29
• Itinerary 30

Super Strenuous

• Itinerary 31

85 miles (48:43)

South, North

• Itinerary 33
• Itinerary 34

113 miles (63:03)

South, North, Valle Vidal

Philmont TREKS 2023

Toolkit to assist crews in selecting Trek itineraries and creating crew Duty Rosters for their 2024 Philmont Trek.

NOTE: All Itinerary Selections Survey forms, Itinerary Selection Spreadsheets, and Duty Rosters for 2024 treks and Cavalcades have been updated.

This site is the home of tools developed to assist crews in selecting their itinerary choices for a Philmont Trek.  The tools included here are just that — tools!  Crews should use them as part of their selection process. This process works best if the entire crew is involved.

Two steps are recommended in preparing for your trek. These are the Itinerary Selection Process and the preparation of a crew Duty Roster .

Tools have been developed to assist your crew in these steps. Click the buttons below to access these tools.

These tools were initially developed in the 1990’s as a “quick and dirty” aid to helping a crew select it’s itinerary and having a workable duty roster. They have been updated every year since that time. If you have questions, problems with the tools, or suggestions, feel free to contact the author Sid Covington at [email protected] .

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Find your life-changing moment at Philmont Scout Ranch

Some Scouts from Arroyo Grande, Calif., had waited years for this moment. The 2018 Ute Fire and the COVID-19 pandemic had delayed their plans to trek the rugged trails of Philmont Scout Ranch, but this past summer, they shouldered their packs, ready to backpack nearly 70 miles.

Starting at the Ponil trailhead in Philmont’s north country, the crew would reach some of the high-adventure base’s most iconic peaks, including Baldy Mountain and the Tooth of Time.

For Baldy, the Scouts awaken at 4 a.m. and take to the trail. Above the tree line and across a scree field dotted with snow, they scramble to the summit.

For some in the crew, the moment was especially profound.

“I really have no words for it,” says Andrew Turbyfill, 19. “It’s incredible. I’m so proud of the crew. We’ve worked so hard to get here, and I’ve waited so long to be here.”

When he was 14, Andrew injured his foot right before the Philmont trek and had to back out. Future treks were delayed by the fire and the pandemic. Finally, this past summer, in his final year eligible to attend as a youth participant, he made it. He was overjoyed — and he wasn’t the only one smiling.

“Because of Philmont, I almost feel like I’m a lot happier more often. Now that I’ve done it, I just can’t stop smiling,” says Jayce Dawson.

Watch this crew’s trek in the video below, and you’ll soon understand their smiles:

Want to experience Philmont?

You and your Scouts can start planning a life-changing trek now. Some spots are still available for 2022 — make sure to secure your spot .

You can also enter the lottery for seven-, nine- and 12-day treks and Cavalcades in 2023. Entries close Dec. 1, so register soon .

Crews can consist of eight to 12 participants, with options for troops and individuals.  Individual opportunities  include staff-led treks focused on themes such as leadership, conservation and STEM, among others. You also have options for adventures during the fall and winter.

Hub for Scouting

Not only does Philmont bring Scouts together in the backcountry, but it also is the home for Scouting’s history and future.

The  National Scouting Museum ,  open year-round at Philmont, features more than 600,000 Scouting artifacts, telling the story of more than 110 years of Scouting in this country.

Families can also visit the ranch and enjoy hiking, rock climbing, fishing, crafts, horseback riding and much more through  BSA Family Adventure Camp  at Philmont.

Support the BSA National High Adventure Base Camp Scholarship Fund

Your support can help bridge the gap between ambition and access, allowing Scouts to participate in life-changing experiences at BSA’s National High Adventure Bases. Help make epic adventures a reality that will ignite a lifelong passion for the outdoors.

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U.S. Department of the Treasury

Secretary of the treasury janet l. yellen to travel to the people’s republic of china.

WASHINGTON – From April 3-9, Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen will travel to the People’s Republic of China (PRC) for bilateral meetings and other engagements.

Secretary Yellen’s visit to China will build on the intensive diplomacy she has engaged in to responsibly manage the bilateral economic relationship and advance American interests. Following initial meetings with the PRC’s new economic team last July in Beijing, Secretary Yellen met with her counterpart Vice Premier He Lifeng in San Francisco, California, in advance of President Biden’s meeting with President Xi. At Secretary Yellen and Vice Premier’s direction, both sides jointly launched Economic and Financial Working Groups , which report to the Secretary and Vice Premier, and which have met three times.

In an April 2023 speech , Secretary Yellen laid out three principles guiding America’s economic relationship with the PRC. These principals continue to guide our engagement today. The United States proceeds with confidence in our economic strength thanks to our historically strong recovery and the investments the Biden Administration is making in America’s productive capacity. In the context of this relationship, America first seeks to secure our national security interests along with those of our allies and to protect human rights. Second, we seek a healthy economic relationship with China that provides a level playing field for American workers and firms. Finally, we also seek to cooperate where we can on key bilateral and global priorities.

During her engagements in China, Secretary Yellen will advocate for American workers and businesses to ensure they are treated fairly, including by pressing Chinese counterparts on unfair trade practices and underscoring the global economic consequences of Chinese industrial overcapacity. Secretary Yellen will also work to expand bilateral cooperation on countering illicit finance, which can drive important progress on shared efforts against criminal activity such as drug trafficking and fraud. In China, the Secretary will also engage her counterparts on critical work that benefits both the United States and China, as well as the world, including work to bolster financial stability, address climate change, and resolve debt distress among developing nations.    

Trip Details

On Wednesday, April 3, Secretary Yellen will depart Washington, DC for Guangzhou, the People’s Republic of China. On Thursday, April 4, she will arrive in Guangzhou.

On Friday, April 5, in the morning, Secretary Yellen will hold a roundtable discussion with economic experts to discuss challenges and opportunities in the PRC’s economy. Secretary Yellen will then meet with Guangdong Governor Wang Weizhong. In the afternoon, Secretary Yellen will participate in an event with leading representatives of the American business community in China, hosted by AmCham China, and deliver remarks on the bilateral economic relationship. In the late afternoon, Secretary Yellen will begin extended bilateral meetings with Vice Premier He Lifeng.

On Saturday, April 6, Secretary Yellen will continue and then conclude a series of bilateral meetings with Vice Premier He. In the afternoon, Secretary Yellen will depart Guangzhou for Beijing.

On Sunday, April 7, Secretary Yellen will participate in a bilateral meeting with Premier Li Qiang. Later, Secretary Yellen will meet with Beijing Mayor Yin Yong. In the afternoon, Secretary Yellen will meet with students and professors at Peking University. In the evening, the Secretary will participate in a bilateral meeting with Finance Minister Lan Fo’an. While in Beijing, Secretary Yellen will also meet with leading Chinese economists.

On Monday, April 8, Secretary Yellen will meet with former Vice Premier Liu He of the People’s Republic of China. Later, she will hold a bilateral meeting with People’s Bank of China Governor Pan Gongsheng.

In the afternoon, Secretary Yellen will hold a press conference, during which she will deliver remarks discussing her trip to China. This press conference will be livestreamed here .

On Tuesday, April 9, Secretary Yellen will depart Beijing for Washington, DC. In the evening, she will arrive in Washington, DC.

More details will follow. 

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LIVE: Solar eclipse finishes its trek across the US

The eclipse reached New York at 3:15 pm EDT and ended on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland at 3:46 pm EDT (5:16 pm local time).

Updated Apr. 8, 2024 1:19 PM PDT

When is your next change to see a total solar eclipse in the US

By Monica Danielle, AccuWeather Managing Editor

Apr. 8, 2024 4:19 PM PDT

The 2024 solar eclipse is the astronomy event of the decade with millions of people expected to travel from Texas to Maine. We share when the next solar eclipses will occur in the U.S. after 2024.

Many regions along the path of totality experienced cloudy conditions . If you missed Monday's eclipse, your next chance to see a total solar eclipse in the United States isn't for a while. It's going to be a long wait, but will end in spectacular fashion with back-to-back events, including the third-longest eclipse of the century.

The next chance many Americans will have to see a total solar eclipse without traveling outside of the country will be on Aug. 22, 2044. Only three states are in the path of totality, including areas of North Dakota, South Dakota and Montana. Parts of the Canadian provinces of British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan will also be in the path of totality.

A cross-country eclipse more impressive than those in 2017 and 2024 will unfold over the United States on Aug. 12, 2045. Areas from California to Florida will be plunged into darkness, as well as parts of the Bahamas, Hispaniola and a sliver of South America.

The path of the 2045 eclipse will be a near-copy of the 2017 Great American eclipse , which was seen from Oregon to South Carolina, the primary difference being that the path will be a bit farther to the south.

Solar eclipse finishes its trek across the US

The 2024 total solar eclipse has finished its trek across the US. The eclipse first appeared over the South Pacific Ocean and began its journey across Mexico, then swept across 15 states in the U.S.

The eclipse was visible over Austin at 1:36 pm CDT before sweeping northeast. After moving over New York at 3:15 pm EDT, the eclipse ended on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland at 5:16 pm local time (3:46 pm EDT).

AccuWeather team and CNN Newsource reporters continue coverage of the eclipse as totality its way through the United States.

WATCH: Totality over Texas

Apr. 8, 2024 3:46 PM PDT

First views of the 2024 total solar eclipse as the moon's shadow makes its way over Texas:

Clouds cover the sky prior to a total solar eclipse, Monday, April 8, 2024, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

The moon began covering the sun over Texas just before 1:30 pm CDT. “ The umbra is over land for just 1 hour and 40 minutes before moving into the north Atlantic, ” NASA explained.

To traverse such a large distance in a short time,  the shadow of the moon will move faster than the speed of sound . In Mexico, the shadow will be moving across the land at around 1,500 mph, but it will accelerate as it shifts over the U.S.,  exceeding speeds of 2,000 mph by the time it reaches Ohio .

Watch skies over Kerrville, Texas go dark during totality live on AccuWeather in the video below:

CNN Newsource reporter Ivan Rodriguez reports live as totality plunges Kerryville, Texas, into darkness during the historic total solar eclipse on April 8.

First look at the total solar eclipse in Mazatlan, Mexico

Apr. 8, 2024 2:31 PM PDT

The city of Mazatlan in western Mexico became the first North American community to experience the total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8.

Footage of the moment was broadcast live by NASA, who told people in Mazatlan they could safely remove their protective eclipse-viewing glasses during the four-minute eclipse.

Here's a look at what millions of viewers experienced:

NASA captured this image of the moon completely blocking the sun from Mazatlán, Mexico, on April 8.

Totality is now occurring in parts of Texas as the moon moves northeast across the Lone Star State and on up through the US.

Countdown to totality: Live from the Little Rock Zoo

Apr. 8, 2024 1:51 PM PDT

Heading back out to the Little Rock Zoo in Arkansas where AccuWeather's Bill Wadell is hanging out with the animals to see how they react to totality . He reports skies are looking great for the big event. The moon is expected to block out the sun in Little Rock at 1:51 pm CDT and we will bring you the latest as it happens right here on AccuWeather.com!

How will the animals react to the #SolarEclipse2024 ?! 🌖 We’ll find out together at the Little Rock Zoo… LIVE on @AccuWeather 📺 📱 💻 Excuse us… time for a quick lunch break with the elephants! 🐘 Beautiful conditions, just a few high clouds passing by right now. pic.twitter.com/COqhIonm9H — Bill Wadell (@BillWadell) April 8, 2024

Solar eclipse underway in the US

By Brian Lada, AccuWeather Meteorologist and Astronomy Expert

Apr. 8, 2024 1:11 PM PDT

The moon’s shadow has reached Texas  and will spread across the country throughout the afternoon. 

Nearly all of North America can expect a partial solar eclipse , while a narrow corridor from Mexico to Atlantic Canada will experience a breathtaking total solar eclipse.

Even in areas where only part of the sun is blocked by the moon,  the temperature may plateau or even drop by several degrees . Shadows may also appear different during the partial solar eclipse.

Crescent-shaped shadows are pictured a sidewalk as light passes through tree leaves during a partial solar eclipse in Oklahoma City, Monday, Aug. 21, 2017. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)

Excitement grows in Ohio ahead of the total solar eclipse

AccuWeather's team coverage of the total solar eclipse continues with extreme Weather Chaser Aaron Jayjack, who is near Lake Erie in Ohio waiting for totality, which is expected to happen in the Buckeye State at 3:13 pm EDT.

He says the skies are clear, and the excitement is palpable among viewers who have brought cameras and telescopes to view the incredible event . Check it out:

Excitement is growing in Ohio ahead of the much anticipated solar eclipse. The last time Ohio was in totality was 1807, and the next time will be 2099.

Waiting for totality live from the Little Rock Zoo

Apr. 8, 2024 12:47 PM PDT

In a little less than an hour, people and animals at the Little Rock Zoo in Arkansas will experience the total solar eclipse.

As part of AccuWeather's team coverage, AccuWeather's Bill Wadell has been reporting live from the zoo all morning as employees and visitors anxiously wait to see not just the eclipse but how animals will react when the moon blocks out the sun's light.

Wadell has also set up AccuWeather's exclusive ambient weather station to record how much the temperature drops during totality in Little Rock. Take a look:

Bill Wadell is at the Little Rock Zoo in Arkansas, where he is monitoring the weather and the animals during the last few hours before the solar eclipse.

While you watch the eclipse, you’ll also be able to feel it

Apr. 8, 2024 11:43 AM PDT

(Credit: SimpleImages/Getty Images)

Changes to temperature, wind speed and humidity happen   as the moon crosses in front of the sun and casts a shadow on Earth’s surface during a solar eclipse. The more sunlight blocked, the more dramatic the weather changes. The effect is comparable to how shaded areas end up much cooler on a hot day than any place in direct sunlight.  

A reduction in solar radiation, no matter how brief, can affect temperatures and other weather. The exact drop in temperature can vary widely based on other factors like cloud cover and the time of year. The time of year matters because the angle at which sunlight strikes the Earth affects temperatures, with a higher angle producing more intense sunshine and heat. The sun angle rises throughout the spring, reaches its peak in summer and starts to drop in the fall.

Temperatures during April’s event could drop around 10 degrees for up to an hour in the path of totality , said Andrew White, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Indianapolis. Temperature drops will be less pronounced in partial eclipse areas.

Traffic problems begin as people head toward path of totality in droves

Apr. 8, 2024 11:12 AM PDT

An uptick in eclipse-related traffic could be seen near Flume Gorge, Interstate 93 in New Hampshire late Monday morning. (New Hampshire Department of Transportation)

Roads are becoming packed as people make  last-minute trips to the path of totality , the only area where the total solar eclipse will become visible.

The northbound lanes of Interstate 93 in New Hampshire is one area where a surge of eclipse travelers from Boston and southern New England is resulting in more traffic and slower speeds. 

An uptick in eclipse-related traffic could be seen on the northbound lanes of Interstate 93 in New Hampshire on Monday morning. (New Hampshire Department of Transportation)

Traffic could become even worse immediately following the eclipse as thousands of people begin their journeys home at the same time.

LIVE: Worried about clouds? Check out AccuWeather's live RealVue™ Satellite

Image of AccuWeather's live RealVue™ Satellite of the United States.

If you're worried about clouds spoiling the view of the total solar eclipse where you live you can take a look at AccuWeather's cloud forecast . You can also check out AccuWeather's live RealVue™ Satellite of the United States .

This map displays the latest and most realistic view of Earth from space, as taken from weather satellites . It provides a detailed view of clouds, weather systems, smoke, dust, and fog. 

When will totality happen where you live?

Apr. 8, 2024 10:27 AM PDT

An estimated 32 million people live within the path of totality across the US , or locations where the moon will completely block the face of the sun from view for a few moments.

The eclipse will first appear over the South Pacific Ocean and begin its journey across North America. Mexico’s Pacific coast is the first point of totality on the path, expected at 11:07 a.m. PT (2:07 p.m. ET), and the eclipse is expected to end on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland at 5:16 p.m. local time (3:46 p.m. ET).

Those squarely along the center line of the path will see an eclipse that lasts between 3 ½ and 4 minutes, according to  NASA .

Try and spot these planets during the eclipse

Apr. 8, 2024 10:20 AM PDT

The sun and moon will be the centerpiece of today’s total solar eclipse, but  during the brief period when the sky goes dark, onlookers should keep an eye out for a few other celestial objects .

Five planets may be visible, including  Jupiter and Mercury to the left of the sun and moon, and Venus, Saturn and Mars, which will be to the right of the moon. 

There is also the chance to see  Comet 12P , which will dimly glow between Jupiter and Mercury. EarthSky created a map to help onlookers spot the planets during the brief moments of totality:

At mid-eclipse tomorrow, when the daylight sky turns dark, look for planets near the sun! Venus will be the brightest one. Jupiter will be 2nd-brightest. You might even see Mercury, Saturn and Mars. Read more at: https://t.co/n6c6gePlBg 📸 EarthSky. pic.twitter.com/1R6Hk6BEYu — EarthSky (@earthskyscience) April 7, 2024

No glasses? Make a pinhole projector to view the solar eclipse

To view the solar eclipse you need to protect your eyes. The easiest way is to wear eclipse glasses. If you don't have glasses, the next best option is to make a pinhole projector. It allows you to see what's going on in the sky without looking directly at the eclipse.

A pinhole projector is easy to make and allows you to view the eclipse safely without looking at the sun. All you need are two sheets of paper and a pin or thumbtack.

When viewing an eclipse, you should always protect your eyes with eclipse glasses. If you can’t get your hands on a pair, here’s another alternative.

Poke a hole in the center of one piece of paper and place the second piece of paper (or cardstock) on the ground. This will be your projection screen. Stand with the sun behind you and hold the paper with the pinhole so that it casts a shadow on the paper on the ground.

View the projected image on the paper below! Sunlight should make its way through the hole and be projected onto the center of the shadow. The farther away you hold your camera, the bigger your projected image will be. As the moon passes over the sun, you'll see that circle turn into a crescent and then back to a full circle as it moves onward.

New York Yankees push back start time of April 8 game because of solar eclipse

Apr. 6, 2024 8:39 AM PDT

The New York Yankees announced it will push back its MLB game on April 8 because of the solar eclipse taking place that day.

The home game against the Miami Marlins was originally scheduled to start at 2.05 p.m. EDT. but now has been pushed back four hours to 6.05 p.m. EDT.

When will the eclipse start in New York City?

The sun rises next to the Statue of Liberty during an annular eclipse on June 10, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Gary Hershorn/Getty Images)

April's solar eclipse will last for over two hours in New York City , beginning at 2:10 p.m. EDT and ending at 4:36 p.m. EDT. The best time to look will be at 3:25 p.m. EDT, when 91% of the sun will be blocked out by the moon.

Fans will still be able to enter the ground from 3 p.m. EDT, with the first 15,000 fans in attendance receiving a free Yankees solar eclipse T-shirt.

Scientists excited to see how animals react during the upcoming solar eclipse

Apr. 6, 2024 8:29 AM PDT

During the Great American Eclipse of 2017, zoo animals acting strangely took researchers by surprise — the giraffes gathered and broke into a gallop, the Galápagos tortoises began to mate, and the gorillas started to get ready for bed.

These odd behaviors were just a few of several anomalies that scientists stationed at the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia, South Carolina, observed during the historic solar event spanning the United States, according to a  March 2020 report .

Claire Wagner, 3, feeds a giraffe at the Fort Worth Zoo in Fort Worth, Texas, Friday, Feb. 23, 2024. During the last total solar eclipse in 2017, male giraffes at a South Carolina zoo began to gallop. Researchers will be watching to see if the giraffes in Fort Worth show similar behavior during April's total eclipse. (AP Photo/LM Otero)

“It was kind of amazing and mind-blowing,” said lead study author Dr. Adam Hartstone-Rose, professor of biological sciences at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. Animal keepers at the  Nashville Zoo at Grassmere  also documented giraffes galloping during the brief moments in 2017 when the sky darkened in the middle of the day.

The Little Rock Zoo is yet another stop on AccuWeather reporter Bill Wadell's path of totality road trip where he caught up with Veterinarian Dr. Sara Stoneburg to see how some animals may react to the eclipse and why most animals won’t be phased by the darkness.

PATH OF TOTALITY ROAD TRIP Stop #4 - The Little Rock Zoo 🦓 🐘🦩 We caught up with Senior Staff Veterinarian Dr. Sara Stoneburg to see how some animals may react to the #eclipse … and why most animals won’t be phased by the darkness. 🌎 🌖 ☀️ pic.twitter.com/nYWJU8MIqR — Bill Wadell (@BillWadell) April 4, 2024

Mark your calendars for April 8 as AccuWeather brings you all-day live coverage of the total solar eclipse. Join us for the event of a lifetime as the eclipse crosses the country from Texas to Maine!

What happens to unprotected eyes when you look at the sun during a solar eclipse?

Apr. 5, 2024 4:06 PM PDT

(Photo credit: Norman Zeb/Getty Images)

Looking at the solar eclipse can severely injure unprotected eyes. Even just a few moments of exposure can harm them; 30-60 seconds is enough to cause permanent damage .

Think of the eye like a camera. Light enters through the lens and then travels to the retina. Light focuses on the retina like film in a camera. Too much light can burn the retina. Because the retina doesn't have pain sensors, you may not even realize this danger until it's too late .

You need eclipse glasses to safely watch the solar eclipse. Even a few short moments of looking at the sun without eye protection can cause permanent damage.

Symptoms of damaged eyes include distorted vision, changes in color vision and blind spots. If you suspect you have damage to your eyes, visit your optometrist for a check-up.

AccuWeather's path of totality road trip and live team coverage

AccuWeather reporter Bill Wadell is taking a 'path of totality road trip' across the United States as he zeroes in on his eclipse viewing destination. He is part of AccuWeather's team coverage of the incredible astronomical event.

Bill's first stop? The Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where more than 40-thousand people from 48 different states will pack into the speedway to talk to IndyCar series drivers and witness the eclipse.

PATH OF TOTALITY ROAD TRIP Stop #1 - #Indianapolis Motor Speedway!🏁 More than 40K people from 48 different states will pack into @IMS , hoping to witness the total solar #eclipse . INDYCAR series drivers and #NASA experts will be on hand for special presentations and events 🔭 pic.twitter.com/K9eCqFHa8G — Bill Wadell (@BillWadell) April 3, 2024

How to tell if your solar eclipse glasses are fake

Apr. 4, 2024 1:48 PM PDT

A dog is given protective glasses by its owner prior to the solar eclipse in Regent's Park in London, Friday, March 20, 2015. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Eclipse glasses are the most popular way to safely look at the sun, as they use specially designed solar filters that can be worn with ease.

“Eclipse glasses are NOT regular sunglasses; regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, are not safe for viewing the sun ,” NASA explained. The solar filters used in eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses.

As the big day draws near, experts say dangerous fakes have infiltrated the market as consumers rush to buy glasses.

The international standard for solar filters and eclipse glasses is ISO 12312-2 , and solar filters with this code printed on them should be safe to use . Still, experts urge onlookers to use caution, as scammers have begun faking ISO certifications.

Real eclipse glasses should not allow the wearer to see anything on a sunny day except possibly the sun’s reflection off a shiny surface or a puddle, which should appear very faint.

‘Shadow snakes’ among surprising effects of solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse can  change the weather and cause animals to behave in unusual ways , but one of the most mesmerizing sights is a phenomenon known as  shadow bands . “ Shadow bands are thin, wavy lines of alternating light and dark  that can be seen moving and undulating in parallel on plain-colored surfaces immediately before and after a total solar eclipse,” NASA said.  Their movement resembles snakes slithering on the ground, resulting in the nickname shadow snakes.

Shadow bands only appear about 60 seconds before totality and the 60 seconds immediately following totality. Additionally, they do not appear during every eclipse, so spectators will need luck to see them on April 8.

San Antonio on border of total eclipse, partial eclipse

Apr. 3, 2024 3:11 PM PDT

Being in the right place at the right time is crucial for seeing a total solar eclipse,  especially in San Antonio , where some areas will experience totality while the rest of the city will only get a partial solar eclipse.  People in the city’s center will only see a partial solar eclipse , along with areas south and east of downtown.  This will be a completely different experience compared to people north and west of downtown San Antonio, where the total solar eclipse will be visible.

A map showing the path of totality for the upcoming solar eclipse. San Antonio is right on the edge of the path, with most of the city expected to see a partial solar eclipse. (NASA)

Everyone planning a trip to the path of totality should double-check to ensure they will be in the path , as folks who miss this event will have to wait 20 years for the next opportunity to see a total solar eclipse from the contiguous United States.

Twice in a lifetime: City prepares for eclipse extravaganza

Southern Illinois will be one of the most popular places in the country on April 8 as skywatchers gather at the “ eclipse crossroads of America ,” the nickname for Carbondale, Illinois. The city was in the path of the 2017 eclipse, and will once again see a total solar eclipse this year. “ We have a whole, long weekend of events lined up ,” Eva Fisher, Public Relations Officer for the City of Carbondale, told AccuWeather. Fisher said the entire  weekend will be packed with concerts, expos, and workshops, capped off by the main event on April 8 . Watch the full interview below:

Carbondale, Illinois, was under the path of totality during the Great American Eclipse on Aug. 21, 2017. Today, the city prepares to enjoy yet another total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024.

NASA rockets to blast off during the height of the solar eclipse

By Brian Lada, AccuWeather Meteorologst and Astronomy Expert

Apr. 2, 2024 10:07 AM PDT

This photo shows the three APEP sounding rockets and the support team after successful assembly. The team lead, Aroh Barjatya, is at the top center, standing next to the guardrails on the second floor. (NASA/Berit Bland)

The alignment of the sun, moon and Earth presents a  rare opportunity for scientists to study the planet’s atmosphere  and how it changes during the event. During October’s “ring of fire” solar eclipse across the western United States, NASA launched rockets from New Mexico and  aims to conduct similar launches on April 8 . “ Rockets will launch at three different times: 45 minutes before, during, and 45 minutes after the peak local eclipse ,” NASA explained, adding that the rockets would launch from the Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia.

The goal is to  collect important data about the Earth’s ionosphere , a region between 55 and 310 miles above the planet’s surface that is crucial for communications. “Understanding the ionosphere and developing models to  help us predict disturbances is crucial to making sure our increasingly communication-dependent world operates smoothly ,” NASA said.

Eclipse fashion tip: Wear red and green

Apr. 2, 2024 10:03 AM PDT

A total solar eclipse can have  unusual effects on animals, the environment and the weather , but the abrupt change in lighting can  play tricks on your eyes . “There’s this thing that happens in the eye as we transition from day to nighttime called  dark adaptation, but it takes about 20 to 30 minutes ,” Dr. Nicole Bajic, an ophthalmologist at the Cleveland Clinic, told AccuWeather’s Tony Laubach. During a total eclipse, day turns to night in a matter of minutes,  too fast for the human eye to adjust . The result is the  Purkinje Effect .

Reds and green will appear much differently during a total solar eclipse than any other day, as demonstrated by AccuWeather Meteorologist and Storm Chaser Tony Laubach. (AccuWeather)

Reds may look dark or dim, while greens and blues will be more pronounced . “If you have a lot of people around you, if you’re making this a group activity, you could  have some people wear red, some people wear blues and greens, ” Dr. Bajic added.  Click here to learn more about the Purkinje Effect.

Total solar eclipse cloud forecast: Where will clouds spoil the show?

Apr. 1, 2024 9:58 AM PDT

The countdown is on and in a few days, millions of people from Mexico to Canada will see a celestial spectacle unlike any other, but forecasters warn clouds could dash the hopes of onlookers in part of North America .

AccuWeather's latest total solar eclipse cloud forecast is looking promising for some but concerning for others, AccuWeather lead long-range forecaster Paul Pastelok said. " Most places in the vicinity of the path of totality will have to deal with some level of clouds , whether high or low."

Click here to see AccuWeather's total solar eclipse cloud forecast , updated daily through April 8th!

Over 40 million people to see total solar eclipse, weather permitting

Mar. 29, 2024 2:51 PM PDT

People wearing protective eye glasses watch the solar eclipse at the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles Monday, Aug. 21, 2017. (AP Photo/Richard Vogel)

April’s total solar eclipse could be one of the most viewed astronomical events of its kind in recent history.  Roughly 44 million people live in the path of totality , with millions more expected to travel to the path  in hopes of seeing the eclipse. The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex is the biggest population center in the path of totality, an area that more than 7 million people call home. “For North Americans,  there’s arguably never been a more populated and accessible path of totality, ” SPACE.com said on its website.

Despite the impressive numbers,  it will be a far cry from the most-viewed eclipse in history . On July 22, 2009, a total solar eclipse spanned parts of India and China with  an estimated population of over 420 million people living in the path , according to SPACE.com, roughly ten times that of the upcoming eclipse of April 8.

FAA warns of delays, disruptions at airports in path of totality

Mar. 29, 2024 10:08 AM PDT

A plane flies in front of a partial solar eclipse at the Tianfu Square on January 15, 2010, in Chengdu of Sichuan Province, China. (Photo by China Photos/Getty Images)

Major travel hubs from San Antonio through Cleveland are gearing up for a  surge of eclipse travelers, and not just on the roads . The FAA issued a notice that warned of possible  eclipse-induced impacts on air travel at airports in and near the path of totality , which in the United States extends from Texas to Maine. “There may be a higher traffic volume than normal anticipated at airports along the path of the eclipse.  Traffic should anticipate delays during peak traffic periods, ” the FAA explained on its website.  The busiest travel times are anticipated between April 7 and April 10 .

A select few flights plan to take off at just the right time so passengers can see the eclipse from the air . This unique experience will send spectators above potential cloudy conditions. However, the flight needs to take off on time as  any delay could keep the plane on the ground as the moon’s shadow passes overhead.

Don’t have eclipse glasses? Time is running out to buy them online

Mar. 28, 2024 3:03 PM PDT

By this point, you’ve probably heard that you need special eclipse glasses, but depending on how you’re planning to watch the eclipse, there may be more you need to know.

Eclipse glasses will be a hot commodity on April 8 as using the specially-designed solar filter is the only safe way to look at the sun directly, and  the clock is ticking for last-minute shoppers . American Paper Optics is the  largest supplier of eclipse glasses in the United States  and still has glasses in stock, but shoppers need to  place an order before Thursday, April 4 , to have them delivered before April 8. Other online realtors are facing a similar delivery deadline. Shoppers may also be able to find glasses available at  local stores, libraries and eclipse-themed events, although availability may be limited.

Hotel in path of eclipse cancels reservations booked more than 1 year ago

Mar. 28, 2024 9:53 AM PDT

In this Aug. 16, 2011 photo, tourists look at Niagara Falls in Niagara Falls, Canada. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)

Katherine Wilson and her family have been planning a trip to Niagara Falls for more than a year with hopes of seeing the breathtaking solar eclipse on April 8.  The popular tourist destination is a great spot for eclipse viewing, where the moon will block out the sun for 3 minutes and 30 seconds  with the thundering, world-famous waterfall nearby.  Then, everything changed when the hotel emailed her, explaining that their reservation had been canceled.

“ We presume that they cancelled a bunch of the lower-cost reservations and flipped them to make more money , whether or not that’s true, they’re not telling us,” Wilson told CTV News Toronto. She added that their  initial reservation was around $100 per night,  but last-minute reservations in Niagara Falls have  inflated to more than $1,000 per night . “We feel like  we had the foresight to book way in advance  for the eclipse, and we shouldn’t be punished for that,” Wilson added. According to CTV News,  the hotel explained the reservation was canceled due to a large group extending their stay through April 8 . Anyone who has made hotel reservations for the eclipse is encouraged to confirm the status of their plans before arriving at their destination.

Moon’s shadow to speed across North America at over 2,000 mph

Mar. 27, 2024 2:15 PM PDT

A celestial sprint is about to take place with a dash of darkness that will create a brief but unparalleled sight for millions on April 8. During a total solar eclipse when the moon is between the Earth and the sun,  the moon’s shadow is cast on the planet below . Its dark inner shadow, called the umbra, is responsible for the total eclipse and will race across North America,  starting in Mexico and sweeping across parts of the United States and Canada.

“ The umbra is over land for just 1 hour and 40 minutes before moving into the north Atlantic, ” NASA explained. To traverse such a large distance in a short time,  the shadow of the moon will move faster than the speed of sound . In Mexico, the shadow will be moving across the land at around 1,500 mph, but it will accelerate as it shifts over the U.S.,  exceeding speeds of 2,000 mph by the time it reaches Ohio . Watch the animation below to see how fast the moon’s shadow will move on April 8:

For nature's greatest spectacle, be inside the shadow of the Moon on April 8! https://t.co/Jw0OKS2IiB #eclipse2024 pic.twitter.com/5xpBjlhzAH — Great American Eclipse 🌞🌗🌎 (@AmericanEclipse) March 26, 2024

250,000 eclipse travelers expected to crowd into Pennsylvania city on April 8

Mar. 27, 2024 8:59 AM PDT

This is a sign in downtown Erie, Pa., on Friday, March 22, 2024, heralding the upcoming total solar eclipse that Erie will experience, with a little luck from the weather, on April 8. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

On any given day, Erie, Pennsylvania, is the fifth-largest city in the state in terms of population, with  around 93,500 residents .  But April 8 won’t be a typical day . An estimated  250,000 people are expected to travel to the city  as it will be one of the few places in Pennsylvania where the total solar eclipse will be visible. The sudden surge in eclipse travelers will  catapult Erie past Pittsburgh to be one of the most populated cities in the state, second only behind Philadelphia , which has a population of around 1.5 million.

“ We are going to try to put cars everywhere possible on the roadways ,” Pennsylvania State Police Troop E Commander Capt. Kirk Reese told Pittsburgh-based news station KDKA. “And not only interstates because we know  as soon as the interstates get jammed, everybody’s electronic device will send them to a secondary roadway. ” Travelers should pack their patience on eclipse day, especially after the event is over, as millions of people across the country hit the roads at the same time.  Not only will there be elevated congestion immediately following totality, but there will be a higher chance of accidents  due to the sudden surge of vehicles on roads in and near the path of totality.

National Guard will be deployed for solar eclipse

Mar. 26, 2024 2:46 PM PDT

The southeastern corner of Oklahoma will plunge into darkness during the total solar eclipse, and  although only a small portion of the state is in the path of totality, officials aren’t taking any chances . Three weeks before the eclipse, Oklahoma announced that it will deploy the National Guard on April 8. “McCurtain County Emergency Management requested our support because  they expect up to 100,000 additional people visiting their communities to watch the eclipse ,” said Lt. Col. Jabonn Flurry, 63rd CST commander. “ This influx of visitors has the potential to overtax local resources .”

In this composite photo, the penumbra of the sun is seen behind the moon as the moon moves across its path from upper right to lower left during a partial solar eclipse in Oklahoma City, Monday, Aug. 21, 2017. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)

Oklahoma City is located outside of the path of totality  and will only experience a partial solar eclipse, but in the  far southeastern corner of the state, onlookers will be bathed in the moon’s shadow for up to 4 minutes and 20 seconds , as long as cloud-free weather prevails.

‘Solar eclipse capital’ of the US gears up for 2nd solar eclipse in 7 years

Mar. 25, 2024 2:42 PM PDT

The next total solar eclipse crossing North America takes place on April 8, 2024. A few towns in Southern Illinois were within the path of totality in 2017 and will be again this year.

Crowds packed into the small town of Carbondale, located in southern Illinois, on Aug. 21, 2017, to see the Great American Eclipse. Now, the  town is making final preparations for another total solar eclipse just seven years later , on Monday, April 8. “ We’re normally closed on Mondays, but due to the eclipse, we decided to open up ,” Marilynn Martin, an owner of a restaurant in Carbondale, told AccuWeather’s Emmy Victor. “ It puts Carbondale on the map .”

The area where the paths of the 2017 and 2024 eclipses intersect has been nicknamed “ the cross . ” AccuWeather Meteorologist and Storm Chaser  Tony Laubach plans on being in this area for the upcoming eclipse  as he was in the same area in 2017 when he witnessed the Great American Eclipse.

Where you need to be to see the total solar eclipse

Mar. 25, 2024 9:00 AM PDT

The moon partially blocks out the sun as a solar eclipse is seen through the clouds over the Gateway Arch Monday, Aug. 21, 2017, in St. Louis. The Gateway Arch was just a few miles outside of the path of totality. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

The sun, moon and Earth will perfectly align on April 8 to create a spectacle unlike any other in nature:  a total solar eclipse . However,  you need to be in the right place at the right time for a chance to see it , or you risk missing the astronomical event of the decade.

To see the eclipse, you need to be in a narrow area known as the  path of totality , which will cover part of Mexico, a swath of the United States from Texas to Maine as well as parts of Atlantic Canada.  Anyone who is outside of this path will only see a partial solar eclipse , weather permitting. Because of the precise nature of the event, spectators should triple-check to make sure their viewing site is located inside the path of totality.  Even being outside the path by a few miles can be the difference between a partial solar eclipse and a jaw-dropping total solar eclipse.

A map showing the path of totality where a total solar eclipse will be visible on April 8, 2024. (NASA's Scientific Visualization Studio)

NASA created a high-resolution map of the event to help people determine where to travel to see the event on April 8.  After 2024, the next total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous U.S. will not be until 2044.

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