2 Utah Destinations Are Officially The Best Places To Stargaze In the U.S.
By Courtnie Erickson|Published May 31, 2022
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Did you know there are more than 20 dark sky parks in Utah? It’s true! But, while there are so many remarkable locations around the state to chase stars, there are two Utah destinations that are well-known around the country for their incredible stargazing. In fact, these two locations are often referred to as some of the best places to stargaze in the United States and you won’t regret a visit to either one.
Zion National Park is well known for its large sandstone cliffs, unique hikes, and the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. But, it is also one of the best places to stargaze in Utah and the entire country.
Zion National Park offers exceptional night skies and to improve the quality of these night skies, this national park has taken several extra steps like installing night sky-friendly light bulbs in campgrounds, lodges, and the visitor center. You can also participate in visitor experiences and astronomy-based programs to learn even more about the dark skies above this area.
While there are many exceptional places all around the park for stargazing, Kolob Canyons Viewpoint is one of the best. Follow the Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive to the west side of the park to enjoy this star show. If you look east at this viewpoint, you will find some of the darkest skies around.
Rainbow Bridge National Monument is located in south-central Utah and is one of the world’s largest natural bridges. Many Native American Tribes consider the area sacred and it is only accessible by boat on Lake Powell or via a hike (a permit is required for this hike).
Rainbow Bridge National Monument was officially designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2018. This designation was the first of its kind in the National Park Service and it was the fourth dark sky sanctuary in the world. This recognition is very exciting as it protects the dark night skies and the cultural heritage of the area.
Due to its remote location, it’s no wonder that Rainbow Bridge National Monument is one of the best places to stargaze in Utah and in the United States. Day or night, the views here truly are breathtaking.
What do you think of the two best places to stargaze in Utah? Where are some of your favorite locations in the Beehive State to capture views of the night sky? Let us know in the comments!
If you are searching for a place to stay with gorgeous night skies and camping accommodations, check out the year-round Wingate Campground, located inside Dead Horse Point State Park, another International Dark Sky Park in Utah.
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