October 2025’s Harvest Moon over the Adirondacks
Super, harvest, and must-see magic.
Don’t miss the spectacular Harvest Full Moon on October 6.
The skies over the Adirondacks are about to treat us to something truly unique and special. The Full Harvest Moon of October 2025 will be more than just beautiful—it will be the first of three back-to-back supermoons. If you love moonlight, fresh air, and dramatic skies, this is a rare lunar event you won’t want to miss.
Here’s everything you need to know: when to see it, where to see it best, what makes it a supermoon, and whether it’s going to be the biggest of the year.
What is a Harvest Moon — and what makes this one different?
A “Harvest Moon” is the full moon closest to the autumnal equinox (September 22 in the Northern Hemisphere). Usually, that’s in September, but every few years the timing shifts so that the Harvest Moon happens in October. 2025 is one of those years.
Add to that the fact that this moon is also a supermoon—meaning it will be near its closest point to Earth (perigee) when full, making it appear larger and brighter than many typical full moons.
When will it peak — times & visibility
Full moons had special meaning for indigenous people in the Adirondacks.
Date & Time of Peak Fullness: October 6, 2025, at approximately 11:47 PM EDT. This is when the moon is full.
Because of timing and geography, the moon will become fully illuminated just before midnight local time in the Adirondacks. In many cases, people will notice the moon is nearly full for much of that evening.
Is this the “largest & brightest” supermoon of the year?
Short answer: No, it’s spectacular—but it won’t quite be the closest/fullest supermoon of 2025.
Here are the facts:
The October 2025 Harvest Moon will be a supermoon, appearing brighter and slightly larger than average because it’s near perigee.
However, the November 5, 2025, supermoon will be closer to Earth than the October one. That means November’s will be the closest full supermoon of the year, and thus technically brighter/larger from a distance standpoint.
That said, to the naked eye (especially with trees, mountains, and horizon acting as a visual scale), the difference may not be dramatic. The “moon illusion” at the horizon—when the moon looks huge as it rises—can enhance what you see.
When to look — optimal viewing windows.
To get the most dramatic, beautiful view:
Moonrise: Just after sunset—this is when the moon will appear largest (horizon-moon illusion) and will cast a mesmerizing orange or reddish tinge as its light passes through more atmosphere, a sight that will surely leave you in awe.
Evening hours between sunset and midnight: The full phase peaks at ~11:47 PM EDT, so foregrounds are still visible, and moonlight grows stronger after moonrise.
Night before and after: Because full moons are “full” only for an instant, but nearly full for some time around that moment, the night before and after will still offer striking views. If the weather is bad on October 6, one of those adjacent nights may work.
In the Adirondacks, moonrise times will vary depending on your east horizon. Still, you can easily find this information on TimeandDate.com for your exact location, ensuring you are well-prepared for the event.
How to stay comfortable and capture the best photographs during your moon gazing experience with these practical tips.
Dress in layers: Adirondack nights in October can be cold, especially near water or at elevation.
Bring binoculars or a telescope if you want to observe lunar craters or the rugged moon surface.
Tripod + telephoto lens for moon shots; if you don’t have those, even a phone camera with a steady surface can capture a lot.
Plan for clear skies: Use local forecasts; watch for clouds, haze, or fog that might block the eastern horizon.
Minimize light pollution: Even towns in the Adirondacks can cast a glow; head deeper into the woods or up higher for darker skies (don’t forget to pack a headlamp so you can find your way in and out).
Make this unique opportunity and create lasting memories with the October 2025 Harvest Moon.
The October 6/7, 2025 Full Moon rising just after sunset, peaking at 11:47 PM EDT, will be a glorious Harvest Supermoon.
It won’t be the absolute biggest full supermoon of the year (that will be in November 2025). Still, it will be special: brighter, gorgeous, a perfect moon for storytelling, photography, romance or quiet reflection.
The Adirondacks offer uniquely beautiful places to watch — lake shores, mountain vistas, remote roads — all amplified by moonrise’s warm light and the hush of autumn.
So mark your calendar, pack your jacket, plan your drive, line up your favorite lake or summit — and see the moon rise with us.
We hope this inspires you — whether you’re planning a moonlit hike, a lakeside vigil, or just stepping outside with a warm drink. Clear skies, full hearts, and a Harvest Moon to remember.
Sources: Farmer’s Almanac | StarWalk | TimeAndDate | EarthSky
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