Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park guide · 2 min read
Dark Sky Park Stargazing and Astro Fest
Black Canyon of the Gunnison was certified as an International Dark Sky Park in September 2015, and the National Park Service works to keep its night sky dark.
Some of the least light-polluted skies in the nation lie over national parks, and the canyon offers a clear view of the stars. The Milky Way is at its brightest in summer, when evening viewers face toward the galaxy's core, while winter nights turn their view toward the outer edge.
Overlooks set well back from the road make the best viewing spots, since headlights from passing vehicles don't reach them. On the South Rim, Dragon Point, Sunset View and Chasm View overlooks are all suitable. On the North Rim, Kneeling Camel Overlook and the Chasm View Nature Trail work just as well. Each of these suits stargazing, viewing through a personal telescope, and astrophotography. The floor of the canyon, near East Portal, also works for viewing, though less of the sky is visible from there.
Astro Fest is the park's yearly celebration of the night sky, put on by the National Park Service together with partner groups. Its astronomy programs are meant to help visitors explore the sky and understand why it needs protecting. The festival has been held across three separate sites along the Gunnison River, so check the park for upcoming dates and locations.
Beyond the festival, the park offers telescope and astronomy programs, so check the park calendar for upcoming sessions. Visitors in winter can also try cross-country skiing by moonlight or headlamp. Astrophotographers should plan their shots from the overlooks listed above.
Whatever your plans, pack a red light headlamp or flashlight. Red light helps preserve night vision and reduces light pollution, which makes it the best choice for every nighttime activity in the park. These simple habits help you get more from a night under the stars.
