Celebrate Utah’s Dark Sky Month

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Celebrate Utah’s Dark Sky Month by taking a Stargazing Adventure at one of our local Dark Sky Places  

Utah is at the heart of a dense cluster of certified parks called The Great Western Starry Way from New Mexico to Montana.   The Beehive State boasts some of the finest dark skies in the world where viewing the billions of stars in the Milky Way has become an increasingly popular pastime for all ages.

In Utah alone, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), with a mission to protect naturally dark places for present and future generations, has certified 23 (and counting) locations, including communities, parks, and protected areas.

Dark Skies Exploration: A Beginner’s Guide

Best places to stargaze close to home include Zion National Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument, Bryce Canyon National Park, and local state parks Gunlock State Park and Snow Canyon State Park (UTAH STATE PARKS STARRY NIGHTS INITIATIVE) 

Tips for Stargazing

Zion National Park offers the following suggestions:

  • Don’t stop or stand in the roadway. Oncoming cars can’t see you in the fading light (and they are looking at the scenery too!) Use pullouts and parking lots.
  • Have a light. If you plan on walking away from your vehicle, every member of your group should have a personal light (headlamp or flashlight; don’t rely on your phone!) If you didn’t bring one with you, lights are available for purchase in many local stores and the park bookstore.
  • Check the astronomical viewing forecast to determine when it is best to view the night sky.

Need locations? Our favorites include:
The Museum patio 
Pa’rus Trail
Kolob Canyons Viewpoint
Watchman Campground
 

Bryce Canyon National Park offer astronomy programs Wednesday and Fridays evenings from May to September, followed by stargazing with telescopes. No reservations are required, but it is advised to arrive 15-30 minutes early. Ranger-guided full moon hikes are an exciting way to experience the park and its stunning sky. Full moon hiking spots are limited and last 1-2 miles or 2-3 hours.

Cedar Breaks National Monument offers Seven Simple Ways to Enjoy Natural Darkness

  1. Conquer your fears: Admit it. Most people are a bit uncomfortable in the dark. Try walking outside in a very dark area while keeping your flashlight in your pocket.
  2. Make a night vision friendly flashlight: By covering your flashlight with red cellophane or a red filter, you can prevent it from disrupting your night vision. Small flashlights work better than large ones.
  3. Stargaze: Spend time looking through telescopes and learning about the cosmos with your local science center, astronomy club, or park ranger.
  4. Go for a moonlit hike: The full moon provides ample light to see in most places. Let your eyes fully adjust. Be safe. A full moon hike will be a memorable experience.
  5. Awaken your nocturnal senses: Find a comfortable spot and look around. Allow your eyes 20 minutes to adjust, and you may be surprised how well you can see by starlight. Do objects appear further? Listen. Do sounds seem louder at night?
  6. Watch nocturnal wildlife: Many animals live their “days” at night. Look for nocturnal wildlife such as owls, bats, deer, bobcats, or fireflies.


Thanks for your support of Ivins Night Sky