Visitor Enjoyment

The Organic Act of 1916 directs the National Park Service to protect three primary resources— historic and cultural objects, plant and animal life, and scenery. While scenery has been traditionally thought of as being geologic curiosities, distant vistas, and sublime landscapes, it also includes the night sky. Many of the last dark skies in the country lie over our national parks. As over-lit skies become the norm, the public is seeking out star-filled skies.

Stars shine through Delicate Arch in Arches National Park

In some parks, stargazing is the most popular ranger led activity

Many visitors are surprised to witness such a beautiful sight at night, perhaps having never seen an unfettered view of a starry sky. Others may come to parks specifically to enjoy stargazing through telescopes, walking among a natural nighttime scene, or camp beneath the stars.

To see what a dark sky can look like, see How Dark is Your Night Sky?

Why are our night dark skies disappearing? Check out the NPS Webrangers, Disappearing Dark Sky activity.

Interpreting Night Skies

A park ranger can not only connect you to the plants, animals, and geology of a park, they can guide you through the night sky too. Several national parks have regular stargazing programs or night appreciation events. Examples include the bat flight breakfast at Carlsbad Caverns NP, star parties at Death Valley NP, telescope viewing at Rocky Mountain NP, moonlight hikes at Bryce Canyon NP, and the observatory at Chaco Culture NHP.

People listen to a presentation on cultural astronomy prior to looking through Chaco Culture's 25" observatory telescope

Astronomy Volunteers

There are many ways to enjoy natural darkness; lying on your back at night just looking up at the sky doesn’t require any equipment other than perhaps a warm jacket. But often the view of the cosmos through a telescope can be both inspirational and educational. Amateur astronomy volunteers play a key role in many parks by showing visitors the beauty that is beyond the reach of the unaided eye. The NPS Night Sky Program manages a coordinated program to place experienced volunteers in parks. More »

7 Simple Ways to Enjoy Natural Darkness

• Try walking outside in a dark location while keeping your flashlight in your pocket.
• By covering your flashlight with red cellophane or a red filter, you can prevent it from disrupting your night vision. Small flashlights work better than large ones.
• Spend time looking through telescopes (stargazing) and learning about the cosmos with your local science center, astronomy club, or park ranger.
• The full moon provides ample light to see in most places. Let your eyes fully adjust. Be safe. A full moon hike will be a memorable experience.
• Find a comfortable spot and look around. Allow your eyes 20 minutes to adjust, and you may be surprised how well you can see by starlight. Do objects appear further? Listen. Do sounds seem louder at night?
• Many animals live their "days" at night. Look for nocturnal wildlife such as owls, bats, deer, glowworms, or fireflies.
• The night sky has been an inspiration for myth, literature, art, scientific discovery, and religion. Find your own way to connect with humankind's celestial companion. Revel in its beauty and wonder, and most of all – be inspired!