![fullmoonoverpowelptandkev.jpg Ranger leads a full moon guided hike.](/subjects/nightskies/images/fullmoonoverpowelptandkev.jpg?maxwidth=650&autorotate=false)
NPS/ Kevin Poe & Ron Warner
A park ranger can not only connect you to the plants, animals, and geology of a park, but also guide you through the night sky. Several national parks have regular stargazing programs or night appreciation events. Examples include star parties or moonlight hikes at Bryce Canyon National Park, telescope viewing at Rocky Mountain National Park, and night sky programming including use of the observatory at Chaco Culture National Historical Park.
![Silhouetted view of people stargazing against a vast backdrop of night sky](/common/uploads/grid_builder/nightskies/crop16_9/9D24A320-1DD8-B71B-0B723D896BD4DF09.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
Stargazing in National Parks
There are many ways to experience the wonder of the night.
![The Junior Ranger Night Explorer badge features an embroidered Ursa Major constellation](/common/uploads/grid_builder/nightskies/crop16_9/DE14B3CF-1DD8-B71B-0B466856EBB81F77.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
Junior Ranger Night Explorer
Junior Ranger Night Explorer program encourages visitors to keep exploring the parks after dark. Available in English and Spanish!
![Cropped night sky view of the Milky Way and constellations](/common/uploads/grid_builder/nightskies/crop16_9/DE98C78A-1DD8-B71B-0BDFB80218CE98FE.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
Observatories
The NPS has some astronomical observatories that provide a unique experience for park visitors.
![Telescopes on grassy field for astronomy event. Rocky Mountain National Park](/common/uploads/grid_builder/nightskies/crop16_9/2D9FAB8D-E645-E4F7-1277A4F4735F1F9D.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
NPS Night Sky Events
Throughout the year parks offer night sky programming, some of which can be found close to home or along your travels.
![Luminarias at Tumacacori National Monument, nighttime](/common/uploads/grid_builder/nightskies/crop16_9/2D4AF27D-E665-4BA6-C9CCFB28C4E9D8C9.jpg?width=640&quality=90&mode=crop)
Protect Night Skies in Your Community
The Milky Way and constellations can be visible if the night skies are free from light pollution. See how you can help protect the night.
Last updated: June 17, 2024