The One Alaska Airbnb You Need To Book for Unforgettable Dark Sky Views

If there's one thing Alaska has plenty of, it's spectacular views.

From the state's soaring mountain peaks (the tallest in the country, by the way) and colorful stretches of tundra wilderness to its icy lakes, bergs, and behemoth glaciers, every corner of the state shows off another one of Mother Nature's best angles. But when travelers aren't busy cruising down scenic mountain roads or photographing impossibly beautiful wildlife, there's one more thing Alaska has come to be known for: its breathtaking skies.

Thousands flock to Alaska to enjoy its front-row seats to the Northern Lights, and countless more take to the backcountry to admire the twinkling heavens in darkness so complete the Lower 48 couldn't possibly understand. But while camping in wilderness outskirts is the absolute best way to experience Milky Way views and the aurora borealis at their peak, and if heading into grizzly territory isn't on your vacation radar this year, there's one other option: booking an epic stargazing Airbnb in Alaska, where you can admire the cosmos and wish upon shooting stars from cozy comfort.

As Alaska's largest and most populated city, Anchorage might not seem the best place to find crowd-free wilderness and dark skies, but the Hemlock Mountain House has figured out how to do just that. Blissfully secluded in a forest of old-growth hemlocks and just steps from Flattop Trail and Chugach State Park, this luxurious rental is perfectly positioned for stargazing. The spacious, three-bedroom home also offers plenty of creature comforts in between astronomy sessions, and because of its setting in a stunning corner of the Chugach Mountains in the hills just outside Anchorage, the landscape naturally blocks any unwanted light pollution. All you have to do is look up if you want to drink in the heavens!

Inside, the recently renovated house boasts high-end finishes and cozy, familiar details that make it feel like a true home away from home. You'll find plush duvets spread out on comfy King beds, modern tile bathrooms, warm woods, and inviting living and dining spaces galore—complete with streaming services, of course.

No matter which room you're in, the furnishings are seemingly made for lounging when the views quite literally knock you off your feet. Every room shows off miles of sweeping Alaskan beauty through massive picture windows and window walls. Whether you're kicked back on a couch in one of the living rooms, whipping something up in the full kitchen, or sleeping in long after sunrise, the views are impeccable. Or, if you prefer a more immersive spot, the view from the deck of the Anchorage skyline and Denali/Mt. McKinley is perhaps even more spectacular.

The Mountain Hemlock House grounds are spacious and woodsy, and just a five-minute walk to Chugach State Park. Feel free to explore, kick back, run around at the house, or hit the park trails! There's even a playhouse for the kiddos.

Visiting during a chilly season? The outdoor sauna is an absolute dream, with plenty of views of its own.

Finally, as night starts to fall, this stunning Airbnb really starts to show off. Here, stargazing opportunities and bucket-list dark sky views are around every corner. The large upper-level deck is perfect for wrapping up in a throw and enjoying the sky come alive with dancing hues of green and purple, as is the barrel sauna with its glass dome window. But if you'd rather enjoy the evening show without the chill, there's not a bad room in the house. If your stay doesn't line up with aurora season, there's still plenty to admire, from the moment the sun starts to sink below the horizon to watching a million galaxies unfold above the valley in real time. And remember: if you need even more views, you can also pop into the state park as well.

Whether you're chasing stars, the northern lights, meteors, or the next big lunar event, the most beautiful celestial events on earth are made even better when there are warm throws and plush sofas involved. Just make sure to bring a camera and a telescope—the deck at the Hemlock Mountain House has plenty of space for your full astronomy setup!

Alaska has no shortage of stunning views. Get a jumpstart on your next photo-worthy adventure with Only In Your State's Travel Planner and let us know what you discover along the way.