There were four SAC members observing at the "Bell Overflow site" south of
Sedona, and we found the following:
1. For this site take the I-17 exit 298 (Sedona), but head away from Sedona.
Two miles to the south there's a sign "Bell Trail Overflow Parking", go left.
2. Contrary to previous reports, the ranger said we didn't need permission to
spend the night.
3. Elevation is 3800 ft.
4. There are 2 large gravel parking lots separated by fenced but unused cow
pasture.
The lots form a "U", and a one-way road takes cars through both lots.
5. There is a modern outhouse.
6. Sky conditions:
a) Thurs May 18 was cloudy and windy, we never saw Polaris.
b) Friday was clear, transparent, and windy all night.
c) A large number of hikers' cars arrived during the day on Saturday, no
problem.
Saturday night was clear, transparent, and breezy, calm after 11pm.
d) Generally the seeing was very bad, but this can certainly vary from day to
day.
e) Daytime temperatures rose from 70s on Thursday to 90 on Sunday.
Recommendaation:
This site is good for Phoenix observers during March, April, and half of May.
and perhaps later if you don't plan to spend the day there.
We have decided to call the the "Bell Overflow Site".
Paul Lind
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