Everybody knows that Idaho is a beautiful place to explore by day, but have you tried exploring it at night? If you haven’t, you’ll want to ASAP. After all, our state is home to some of the most beautiful night skies in the country. We’re even home to the country’s very first dark sky reserve. There are a ton of places to go stargazing in Idaho, but one of the best is at Bruneau Dunes State Park. That’s because this state park is home to its very own observatory and they regularly host stargazing events for families and people of all ages. Check it out and prepare to be in total awe of the beauty that awaits!
See the night sky like you've never seen it before when you visit one of the best stargazing destinations in the state: Bruneau Dunes State Park.
Bruneau Dunes State Park is most well-known for its landscape of incredible sand dunes, one of which happens to be the tallest single-structured dune in North America. However, it also doubles as one of the best places to gaze at the night sky, thanks to the park's world-class observatory.
The park's public observatory hosts a stargazing event every Friday and Saturday evening from March through October. Featuring a tour, presentation, and viewing, these events are perfect for astronomy enthusiasts both young and old.
The presentation lasts about 40 minutes and it takes place inside the Steele Reese Education Center. The subject of the presentation varies and they often host special guests, so be sure to read up on what presentation will be going on when you visit beforehand! Or simply show up and be surprised.
Afterwards, guests will be treated to a viewing of the heavens unlike any other through the observatory's special collection of telescopes. What types of planets, nebulas, and galaxies you see completely depends on which night you choose to attend. Whatever you end up seeing, you're bound to be blown away.
Don't forget to participate in the Scorpion Walk after each presentation. On this unique escapade, visitors learn all about these nocturnal creatures while looking for them around the park. Keep an eye out for their glowing bodies under the UV light!
Viewing fees are collected via cash or check and is $5 for individuals and $20 for families. There are discounts for seniors and students, and children under 5 are free. Keep in mind that there is also a $5 entrance fee into the park itself, as well.
The park's remote location makes it the perfect destination to see Idaho's night sky like never before. Bruneau Dunes is worth stopping by for its incredible landscape alone, but the amazing stargazing opportunity is just the cherry on top! Learn more about the park's astronomy program at their website here.
