Utah Is Home to the Highest Concentration of Dark Sky Parks in the World

Growing up in southern Utah, one of my favorite memories was lying in my grandparent's backyard, staring at the night sky. We could count hundreds of stars, spot satellites, and even wish upon a few falling stars in a single night. There is something magical about stargazing in Utah, and here in the Beehive State, you have opportunities galore. In fact, did you know that Utah is home to the highest concentration of dark sky parks in the entire world? While we knew our state was special, this makes it so much more heavenly.

You don't have to travel far in the Beehive State when you want to step outside and enjoy an incredible night show. In the past few years, Utah has become home to the highest concentration of certified Dark Sky Places of anywhere in the world.

Throughout the world, there are more than 200 certified International Dark Sky Places. Here in Utah, you’ll find 20 International Dark Sky Parks, two Dark-Sky Approved Lodging locations, six International Dark Sky Communities, one International Dark Sky Sanctuary, and one Urban Night Sky Place. Wow!

In fact, all five of Utah’s national parks are International Dark Sky Parks as well as many state parks such as Antelope Island State Park, Fremont Indian State Park, and Goblin Valley State Park. There are also multiple national monuments in Utah on the list, including Cedar Breaks National Monument, Timpanogos Cave National Monument, and Dinosaur National Monument.

To receive certification, the land must have an exceptional quality of starry nights and an environment that is specifically protected for scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and/or public enjoyment.

But it is no easy feat to become a designated dark sky park. While Utah’s dryer climate creates fewer clouds, resulting in ideal stargazing conditions, it's much more complicated than that. Here in Utah, many state park officials have worked diligently to complete a strenuous application process. Plus, many extra steps must be taken to provide ideal night sky viewing such as lights must be directed downward and the area must host educational activities and presentations throughout the year.

Whether you are an avid stargazer or you simply want someplace new to check out, with so many International Dark Sky Places in Utah, there are countless getaway destinations just waiting for you.

Day or night, Utah is absolutely enchanting. Don't you agree? You can learn more about International Dark Sky Parks and view a list of certified locations on the International Dark Sky Association's website.

Do you enjoy stargazing? Do you have a favorite place to stare at the night sky? Let me know by filling out this nomination form. I'd love to visit! And did you know that just 35 minutes away from Salt Lake City, you can enjoy an incredible star show? East Canyon State Park is a dark sky park in Utah and offers some of the greatest star shows in northern Utah.

Did you know that the first Dark Sky Approved Lodging location is in Utah? It's true! In fact, it is one of our favorite glampgrounds in Utah: Under Canvas Lake Powell – Grand Staircase. This is the perfect place to explore southern Utah's beauty yet enjoy all of the comforts of home.