Per proclamation of the governor, June is Dark Sky Month in Colorado — and rightfully so! Our great state is home to 15 officially designated “Dark Sky” parks and communities. DarkSky International is a nonprofit organization committed to protecting and preserving the wondrous celestial phenomenon that is the night sky.
To earn the Dark Sky stamp of approval a location must “show an exceptional dedication to preserving the night sky by adhering to strict implementation and enforcement of quality outdoor lighting ordinances, dark sky education, and citizen support.” Up for a nighttime adventure? Here’s where to find Colorado’s official Dark Skies.
Near-ish
1-3 hour drive from Denver
- Jackson Lake State Park (~1.5 hours northeast near Wiggins)
- Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument (~2 hours south in Teller County)
- Westcliffe and Silver Cliff (~2.5 hours south in Custer County)
An Overnighter
3-5 hour drive from Denver
- Crestone (~3.5 hours south in Saguache County)
- Curecanti National Rec Area (~4 hours southwest, outside Gunnison)
- Great Sand Dunes National Park (~4 hours south, outside Alamosa)
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (~5 hours southwest, past Hotchkiss)
- Dinosaur National Monument (~5 hours northwest on the Utah border)
A long exposure star trail shot from Deckers, Colorado. (Credit: Santana Photography; aka my talented lil bro 🤭)
A Weekend Getaway
5+ hour drive from Denver
- Ridgway (~5.5 hours southwest, near Ouray)
- Slumgullion Pass (~5.5 hours southwest, outside Lake City)
- Norwood, Naturita, and Nucla (~6.5 hours southwest, outside Uncompahgre National Forest)
- Mesa Verde National Park (~7 hours southwest near Cortez)
- Hovenweep National Monument (~7.5 hours southwest near the Four Corners)
Bonus Spots
Not Dark Sky official, but not too shabby
- Red Rocks Amphitheatre (~30 minutes away in Morrison)
- Garden of the Gods (~1 hour away in Colorado Springs)
- Rocky Mountain National Park (~1.5 hours away in Estes Park)
Some Tips for Dark Sky Gazing
- Check the weather! You’ll want clear skies to make the most of it
- A bright moon will wash out the stars — aim for a moonless night
- Protect your night vision by using a red light headlamp or flashlight
- If headed for a designated DarkSky location, check for local night sky programs or guides
