If you’re a lover of the night sky, Colorado is the place to be. With its clear, crisp air and limited light pollution, you will be able to see the most mesmerizing starscapes you’ve ever seen in your life. Here are the top places in Colorado for stargazing.
The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is one of the most picturesque places in Colorado. The park is filled with breathtaking sand dunes that are perfect for stargazing. There are two designated stargazing areas in the park: the Dunes Overlook and the Montville Nature Trail. Both offer stunning views of the sky at night. You can even camp in the park and watch the stars from your tent!
Dark Sky Reserve
The Dark Sky Reserve is a protected area in Colorado that is specifically designated for stargazing. The reserve is located west of Colorado Springs and includes several small towns. It’s one of the best places in the state to stargaze because there is virtually no light pollution. At night, the sky looks like a giant canvas of stars and constellations.
Keystone Science School
The Keystone Science School is a place where you can learn about the stars and view them at the same time. The school is located in the Rocky Mountains and is surrounded by beautiful scenery. The school offers stargazing programs that allow visitors to use high-tech telescopes to view the sky. If you’re lucky, you might even see a shooting star!
Estes Park
Estes Park is a charming mountain town that is perfect for stargazing. The town is located near Rocky Mountain National Park and has very little light pollution. The town is also home to the Estes Valley Astronomical Society which offers stargazing events throughout the year. You can even attend one of their star parties and get a tour of the night sky!
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is a beautiful place to stargaze in Colorado. The park has many designated stargazing areas where visitors can set up telescopes and take in the beauty of the stars. There are also several guided stargazing tours that offer a more in-depth look at the night sky.
Angel of Shavano Campground
The Angel of Shavano Campground is one of the most popular places in Colorado for stargazing. The campground is located near Salida and has a clear view of the night sky. The high elevation of the campground means that the air is thin and clear, making it an ideal location for stargazing. Many visitors describe the stars here as "glittering diamonds".
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a hidden gem for stargazing in Colorado. The park has very little light pollution and boasts some of the darkest skies in the state. Visitors can take a guided stargazing tour or set up their telescopes at one of the designated stargazing areas in the park.
Conclusion
Colorado is one of the best places in the country for stargazing. With its clear air, high elevations, and limited light pollution, you will find some of the most breathtaking starscapes you’ve ever seen. So pack your telescope and head to one of these top places in Colorado for stargazing and enjoy the beauty of the night sky!