Here in Nevada, we get to enjoy super dark night skies that are perfect for stargazing. In fact, an entire corner of our state is officially considered one of the darkest places in the world. Suffice to say, stargazing spots are bountiful here in the Silver State. However, there’s one town that’s especially well-known for its dark skies and they even boast their very own stargazing park. The next time you’re feeling up for a nighttime adventure, plan a trip to this super dark destination!
Experience some of Nevada's darkest skies and one of its best stargazing spots when you visit Tonopah Stargazing Park. This little-known spot is perfect for night sky lovers and it's bound to leave you starstruck.
The small town of Tonopah is home to some of the West's best stargazing opportunities. In most cities, you can typically see between 25-50 stars across the entire night sky. In Tonopah, it's estimated that you can see about 7,000. That's quite the difference!
No equipment is required to witness the magical sight of the Milky Way glittering above you. Simply look up with your naked eye. However, it's best to seek out a particularly remote area that's far away from city lights, like the Clair Blackburn Memorial Stargazing Park.
You'll find the stargazing park located at the end of Ray Tennant Drive. Turn at Tonopah High School and follow the paved road until it turns to a dirt road. You'll keep going on this road until you reach the park.
The park was designed for professional astronomers but it's completely open to anybody with an interest in gazing at the stars. There is plenty of space to set up a telescope on one of the cement pads, and there are picnic tables for laying out equipment.
The town even hosts special "Star Parties" on select summer nights. Anybody is welcome to attend one of these parties and feel free to bring your own stargazing equipment. Currently, there are Star parties planned for June 13, July 11, and August 8, 2020.
Once you go stargazing at Tonopah, all other night skies simply can't live up. Do yourself a favor and plan a nighttime trip to this great stargazing spot soon! More information about the Tonopah Stargazing Park can be found here.
