Minnesota is home to hundreds of beautiful nature areas. But none stands out as much as the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. This huge stretch of over 1 million acres in northern Minnesota draws more than 250,000 visitors per year. Visitors are drawn to the area thanks to its impressive scenery, untouched landscape, and many recreational activities. Now, there’s yet another reason for people to plan their trips to the Boundary Waters. The area was recently named a Dark Sky Sanctuary by the International Dark Sky Association. That makes it one of the best places not just in the United States, but in the entire world, to see the stars. Read on below to learn more about this special status.

In August 2020, the International Dark Sky Association named Minnesota's Boundary Waters a Dark Sky Sanctuary. This designation is given to places that have exceptionally dark skies, far from big-city light pollution.
Adam Baker/Flickr
The Boundary Waters is one of only 13 places in the world to receive the Dark Sky Sanctuary designation. Other sanctuaries are as far-flung as New Zealand and South Africa.
Shena Tschofen/Flickr

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Thanks to its distance from big cities, the Boundary Waters is a well-known place in Minnesota to enjoy the night sky. On clear nights, millions of stars are visible. It's a great place to find constellations, watch for shooting stars, and simply enjoy nature.
Jeffrey Keeton/Flickr
In addition to the area's crystal-clear waters and endless opportunities for recreation, the Boundary Waters also offer one of the best stargazing places in the entire world. It's a wonderful reason to plan a trip to this Minnesota treasure.
MJI Photos/Flickr

Looking for more great places to see the stars in Minnesota? Check out our article about a remote Minnesota town that is one of the best places to stargaze.

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Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Ely, MN 55731, USA