Top 5 Parks for Stargazing in the US
1. Death Valley National Park: Death Valley National Park is a vast and remote park that is perfect for stargazing. It is one of the darkest places in the United States, with minimal light pollution, and offers stunning views of the night sky. During the summer, visitors can experience the Perseid meteor shower, while the Geminid meteor shower occurs in December.
Top Spot: Harmony Borax Works
Harmony Borax Works was the central feature in the opening of Death Valley and the subsequent popularity of the Furnace Creek area. The plant and associated townsite played an important role in Death Valley history. This area offers an elevated viewing area, allowing an unobstructed view of the night sky. Harmony Borax Works is located close to the Furnace Creek Visitor Center.
Google Maps: Harmony Borax Works
2. Yellowstone National Park: Yellowstone National Park is home to one of the largest dark-sky preserves in the United States. With a lack of light pollution and its remote location, the park offers incredible views of the night sky. Visitors can expect to see the Milky Way and the northern lights. Additionally, the park is an excellent spot to view meteor showers, such as the Perseids in August and the Leonids in November.
Top Spot: Dunraven Pass
Dunraven Pass is the highest road in the park and has incredible views of the night sky. Park at the Dunraven Pass Trailhead, located along Grand Loop Road, and enjoy the stars on a clear night. Be sure to bring extra warm clothes and a blanket, as the high elevation will generally be colder than the lower areas of the park.
Google Maps: Dunraven Pass
3. Acadia National Park: Acadia National Park is located on the coast of Maine and offers stunning views of the night sky over the ocean. The park is home to several locations that are ideal for stargazing, including the summit of Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond House, and Sand Beach. The park also has a dedicated Star Party, where visitors can observe the night sky with the help of park rangers and local astronomers.
Top Spot: Cadillac Mountain
Locals claim that Cadillac Mountain is the place for stargazing in Acadia. During the summer, you can drive to the parking area at the top of Cadillac Mountain until midnight and enjoy the night sky above you.
Google Maps: Cadillac Mountain
4. Joshua Tree National Park: Joshua Tree National Park is a popular destination for stargazers due to its clear skies and minimal light pollution. The park is home to several designated stargazing areas and has a vibrant community of astronomers and amateur stargazers. Visitors can enjoy the park's night sky year-round, but the park's astronomy programs are especially popular during the summer months.
Top Spot: Hidden Valley
This 1-mile hiking loop offers wide open skies, along with picturesque rock formations. The short trail is easily accessible and makes for a perfect getaway spot to view the stars. Make sure to bring water and some warm clothes as temps can drop quite a bit after the sun goes down.
Google Maps: Hidden Valley Nature Trail
5. Grand Canyon National Park: Grand Canyon National Park is located in northern Arizona and is home to some of the darkest skies in the United States. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Milky Way, as well as occasional meteor showers. The park offers several designated stargazing locations and has a dedicated astronomy program that offers ranger-led tours and telescope viewing. The best spots for viewing stars are Yavapai Point, Lipan Point, and the North and South Rims.
Top Spot: Lipan Point
An easily accessible spot, located just of Desert View drive along the South Rim.
Google Maps: Lipan Point