Experience The Magic Of Stargazing In Colorado’s High Country

Summer nights and stargazing in Western Colorado go together like peanut butter and jelly. Grand Junction residents know that the Western Slope is surrounded by great locations for viewing the night sky over the Centennial State, but is there one location that is darker than all the rest?

Scroll down to check out the top stargazing spots near Grand Junction, and a few more locations that locals swear by.

Why Stargazing in Colorado Is So Special

Read More: Colorado Has a New 'Dark Sky' Park

People living in Colorado’s big cities might envy the kind of stargazing we enjoy here in Grand Junction. Out here, the night sky can look like something out of a movie. Our high elevation, dry air, and wide-open spaces mean clearer skies—and fewer lights. Grand Junction already has low light pollution, but there’s one nearby spot that’s even darker—and even better—for stargazing.

And the Darkest Spot Near Grand Junction Is...

What’s the darkest spot near Grand Junction for stargazing? One of the best places you can go is the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Montrose, Colorado.  Stargazing is amazing from the North or South Rim of the park. The Black Canyon is officially recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, located about 90 minutes from Grand Junction.

The Black Canyon offers ranger-led programs throughout the summer, telescope viewings, and astronomy discussions. The park checks all the boxes: it’s remote, at a higher elevation, and the park follows strict light pollution controls at night.

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Other Great (and Closer) Stargazing Spots Near GJ

What’s the best time of the year to view the night sky over Colorado? Late spring to early fall features the highest number of dry nights with clear skies. A few days before or after a New Moon is the best time to see the most stars. The Milky Way is viewable during this time and appears overhead from June until August.

• Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area: This accessible and remote area of canyons is just south of Grand Junction and features wide open skies and few visitors at night. This is a great spot for experienced hikers and campers to see the night sky.
• Glade Park & Colorado National Monument Rim: Close and convenient to Grand Junction, exploring Glade Park and Rim Rock Drive inside the Colorado National Monument are great for quick evening outings that feature dark vistas at higher elevations.