Looking for the best spots to look up for stargazing in Colorado?
The night sky is full of wonder and beauty, and there’s no better place to see it than in Centennial State.
With wide-open spaces, high altitudes, and low light pollution, Colorado is a stargazer’s paradise.
Whether you’re a casual observer or an astronomy buff, there are plenty of places in Colorado to get a glimpse of the stunning night sky.
Here is an ultimate guide to the best stargazing destinations in Colorado to enjoy the majesty of the universe.
Best Places for Stargazing in Colorado
With some of the clearest and darkest skies in the country, Colorado offers plenty of incredible stargazing opportunities.
From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the vast expanse of the Great Plains, there are many stunning locations to observe the night sky.
One such spot is the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, which boasts some of the darkest skies in the lower 48 states.
Another option is Mesa Verde National Park, where ancient ruins and a lack of light pollution make for a truly unforgettable stargazing experience.
Here are the best places to enjoy star gazing in Colorado.
Great Sand Dunes National Park
This unique national park in southern Colorado is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America.
During the day, you can climb to the top of the dunes and take in sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
But at night, the park located in San Luis Valley is also an ideal stargazing location.
The high elevation and dry air make the stars appear brighter and clearer.
The dunes provide a secluded and protected spot to set up your telescope or just lie down and look up at the stars.
The best time to see the Milky Way here is in the evening during summer to fall.
It has a Junior Ranger Night Explorer program for kids.
Plus, the park offers a range of stargazing programs and events throughout the year.
Great Sand Dunes is truly one of the best dark sky parks in Colorado.
Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park is one of the best national parks in America.
It is known for its clusters of ancient cliff dwellings, which were built by the Ancestral Puebloans.
They also built the Sun Temple, believed to be an ancient astronomical observatory.
Today, you can walk in their footsteps by observing the night sky at Mesa Verde.
The opportunities to spot night sky in Mesa Verde are numerous.
In fact, Mesa Verde is an International Dark Sky Park.
The high-altitude location and lack of light pollution make it easy to spot stars, planets, and other celestial objects.
The best spots to stargaze include Morefield Campground, Far View Lodge, and sites along the park road such as Park Point and Montezuma Valley Overlook.
Mesa Verde also hosts astronomy events and activities for visitors of all ages.
Rocky Mountain National Park
The Rocky Mountains are a dramatic backdrop for stargazing, and Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best places to do it.
With elevations ranging from 7,500 feet to over 14,000 feet, you can find the darkness and altitude you need for optimal stargazing.
The night sky here glitters with the light of thousands of stars.
For the best experience, aim for a clear night in late summer or early fall when the Milky Way is especially visible.
Top stargazing spots within the park include Bear Lake, Trail Ridge road overlooks, Moraine Park, and the campgrounds.
Plus, the National Park Service offers a range of guided stargazing programs and night hikes for visitors, you can see details here.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
This lesser-known national park in western Colorado is a stargazing gem.
The park’s steep cliffs and deep canyons create a naturally dark environment perfect for observing the stars.
The sky here has been measured to be darker then that at Great Sand Dunes or other major parks.
Overlooks along both the South Rim Road and the North Rim Road are excellent for stargazing as are the campsites.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park also hosts a yearly Astronomy Festival called the Astro Fest which features night sky photography workshops, telescope viewings, and talks from astronomy experts.
Dinosaur National Monument
Dinosaur National Monument is a fascinating place to see the night sky.
Here you can see the primordial skies that were seen by prehistoric beasts millions of years ago!
The park has been designated an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association.
The park is located on the remote eastern edge of Colorado, along the Utah border.
With plenty of campsites and open sky views, it’s an ideal spot for stargazing.
You can even attend a range of astronomy programs year-round hosted by park rangers.
Some of the best spots to stargaze within the park include Split Mountain Campground, which even has a designated camping spot.
Gates of Lodore Campground is another great spot to see the Milky Way.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Do not want to travel far to plan your Colorado stargazing trip?
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre near Denver is an excellent spot for urban stargazing.
This iconic venue has long been a popular destination for music fans, but it also provides beautiful views of the night sky.
The park offers ranger-led astronomy programs and telescope viewings, as well as special events throughout the year.
So, grab your telescope or simply look up at the stars.
Hovenweep National Monument
Hovenweep National Monument is another stunning International Dark Sky location.
The park has some of the darkest night skies in Colorado, and it’s also home to ancient Native American ruins.
On clear nights, you can spot stars, planets, and even galaxies on display above the ancient structures.
Plus, the park offers educational astronomy programs and lectures throughout the year.
Summit County, Colorado
Summit County is home to some of the highest mountains in Colorado, making it a great place for stargazing.
It’s located in north-central Colorado near Breckenridge and Vail ski resorts, so there’s plenty of activities during daylight hours as well.
At night, you can head up into the mountains and find a spot away from city lights to enjoy the stars.
Summit County also has some of the best astronomy clubs in Colorado, with plenty of events and activities for stargazers of all levels.
Jackson Lake State Park
Jackson Lake State Park, a Dark Sky Park, is a great spot for stargazing in eastern Colorado.
The park offers an expansive view of the night sky, perfect for camping and telescope viewing.
The park also has several educational programs and activities devoted to astronomy.
So if you’re looking for a place to get away from city lights and observe the stars, Jackson Lake State Park is the perfect spot.
Ridgway
The city of Ridgway is a designated International Dark Sky City.
It’s located in southwest Colorado, close to the San Juan Mountains.
The clear and dark skies of Ridgway make it an ideal stargazing destination for both novice and experienced astronomers.
The city also hosts astronomy programs throughout the year, as well as outdoor film screenings under the stars.
Colorado National Monument
Colorado National Monument is another great spot for stargazing.
The majestic red rock formations make for a dramatic backdrop as you gaze up at the night sky.
Plus, the high elevation ensures plenty of clear skies and minimal light pollution.
The best spots to view the stars in Colorado National Monument are Rim Rock Drive and Saddlehorn Campground.
The view from the overlooks is spectacular!
You can also attend astronomy programs here hosted by park rangers throughout the year.
Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods Monument located in Colorado Springs is an excellent place to enjoy stargazing in the Centennial State.
The park is known for its towering red sandstone formations, but it also offers some of the clearest night skies in the area.
At Garden of the Gods Monument you can take in stunning views of stars, galaxies, and planets from high above the city lights.
An Annual winter solstice hike takes place in the Garden of the Gods in winter – it is a great time to enjoy stargazing in the park.
Colorado Springs Astronomical Society
The Colorado Springs Astronomical Society is a great resource for stargazers in the state.
They host regular public events such as star parties, lectures, and telescope viewings.
The group also provides guidance and advice for amateur astronomers, with plenty of resources on their website.
Some of their past events have been hosted at Muller State Park and Garden of the Gods.
Aspen Center for Environmental Studies
If you’re looking for a guided stargazing experience, the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies offers evening programs throughout the year.
This is a great way to see stars, planets, and other celestial objects in Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley.
Led by astronomy educators, these programs take you on a tour of the night sky and provide opportunities to use telescopes and binoculars.
The center also hosts a winter Solstice Celebration featuring a bonfire, hot cider, and a starlit snowshoe hike.
Pawnee Buttes
Located in northeastern Colorado, the Pawnee Buttes offer a secluded and striking landscape for stargazing.
Here, you’ll find open prairies and rocky outcroppings that create a perfect lookout for the stars.
There are campgrounds nearby where you can set up for the night, or you can opt for a day trip and take in the stunning scenery at sunset and into the night.
Chimney Rock National Monument
Chimney Rock National Monument in southwestern Colorado is a great spot for stargazing.
The park has been designated an International Dark Sky Park, and it offers stunning views of stars, planets, and galaxies on clear nights.
You can take part in astronomy programs offered through the park’s visitor center that feature star-gazing hikes, solar viewings, and more.
Plus, the park’s ancient structures provide an incredible backdrop to photograph star-filled skies and the Milky Way.
Horsetooth Reservoir
Horsetooth Reservoir near Fort Collins is a great spot for stargazing in northern Colorado.
The reservoir offers plenty of public boat ramps, campgrounds, and open sky views that are perfect for star-gazing.
In the evening you can take in picturesque sunsets over the Rockies before turning your gaze to the night sky.
Curecanti National Recreation Area
The Curecanti National Recreation Area is home to some of the best stargazing in Colorado.
Located in western Colorado, it’s a perfect spot for camping and taking in the stars.
There are several campgrounds located within the park that offer views of the night sky and open lands.
Areas around Blue Mesa Reservoir and Lake City are great for sky viewing trips.
Plus, you can join ranger-led astronomy programs that feature telescope viewings and lectures about the night sky.
Estes Park
Estes Park is a great place to go stargazing in Colorado.
Located in near the Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park offers some of the darkest night skies in the state.
The park’s clear air and high altitude make it perfect for spotting galaxies and constellations on clear nights.
Westcliffe and Silver Cliff
Both Westcliffe and Silver Cliff, located in the, are designated International Dark Sky communities.
The two towns are located high up in the Rocky Mountains, and on a clear night you can take in stunning views of stars, planets, and galaxies.
For some guided stargazing experiences, Westcliffe and Silver Cliff host several astronomy events throughout the year.
These include star parties with telescopes, meteor shower viewings, and more.
Crestone
Crestone was designated as an International Dark Sky Community in 2021.
The small mountain town in south-central Colorado is a great destination for stargazing.
On starry nights, you can take in breathtaking views of the Milky Way and other far away galaxies from the top of Crestone Peak or other nearby mountains.
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
Located just over an hour west of Colorado Springs, you will find Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument.
This is an excellent spot for stargazing, as the area is free of city lights and offers expansive, dark skies.
During the day, you can explore the fossil beds to see remains of prehistoric insects and plants that once thrived in this area.
You can also see petrified wood stumps of a type of Sequoias, that were similar to the coastal redwoods in California.
The monument was designated an International Dark Sky Park recently in 2021.
Best spots to see the celestial objects include Hornbek Homestead area and the parking lots.
Ridgway State Park
Ridgway State Park is another great spot for stargazing in Colorado.
This Colorado State park, located near Montrose in southwestern part of the state, has some of the darkest night skies in the state and offers sweeping views of stars and galaxies above.
There are plenty of camping and RV sites to stay at if you want to make a full night of stargazing.
UFO Watchtower, Hooper
The UFO Watchtower in Hooper is an off the beaten track spot for stargazing.
It is famous for its claims of energy vortexes and alien sightings.
However this tower in the middle of nowhere actually offers some of the best views of night skies in the state.
It’s a great spot to watch the night sky and listen to urban legends and walk around the Instagram worthy garden nearby.
To reach the UFO Watchtower, drive 23 miles north of Alamosa to Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Paint Mines Interpretative Park, Calhan
The Paint Mines Interpretative Park in Calhan is a unique geological area with a history of ancient Native Americans and dinosaurs.
The park is famous for its colorful badlands and rock formations that give its name.
The park also has some of the most striking night skies in Colorado.
Here you can take in views of stars and far away galaxies above the rolling hills of sandstone and clay formations.
You can take in breathtaking views of the stars and planets above while exploring the spectacular rock formations below.
Plus, the park is open until late so you can stay until dark to get a full night of stargazing.
Chamberlin Observatory, Denver
Chamberlin Observatory in Denver is an ideal spot for stargazing.
The observatory, located on the campus of the University of Denver, offers public viewings of stars and planets every week through its telescope.
It’s a great place to start your journey into the night sky, as you can take guided tours of the planets and stars in the night sky with experienced staff.
Plus, there are regular astronomy lectures from local experts to learn more about celestial objects and how to observe them.
For a full night of stargazing, you can take part in the Stargaze Denver program that offers telescope viewings as well as guided hikes and camping trips.
So if you are looking for a fun and educational way to explore the night sky, visit Chamberlin Observatory in Denver for an unforgettable stargazing adventure!
Molas Lake Campground
Molas Lake Campground is a great spot for camping and stargazing in southwestern Colorado.
The campground, located near the San Juan National Forest, offers sweeping views of night skies and nearby mountains.
At night you can take in views of stars and galaxies from your campsite, or take a short hike to nearby mountaintops for even better views.
Plus, the area is free of light pollution and offers some of the clearest night skies in the state.
Grand Lake
Grand Lake is an ideal spot for an overnight stargazing trip in Colorado.
The town, located near the Rocky Mountain National Park, offers some of the best views of stars and galaxies in the state.
On a clear night, you can take in breathtaking views of stars and planets from Grand Lake’s dark skies.
Plus, Grand Lake also hosts several astronomy events throughout the year, such as star parties and meteor shower viewings.
Tips for Successful Stargazing in Colorado
When stargazing in Colorado, it’s important to take the time to find a spot away from city lights.
Make sure you check the weather forecast before heading out to Dark Sky locations and plan ahead for any cloudy conditions.
It’s also helpful to research your chosen stargazing destination beforehand, as some parks and towns are better suited for experienced astronomers, while others may be better for beginners.
Let your eyes adjust to the dark for at least 15 minutes before you begin stargazing, and make sure to bring binoculars or a telescope for a closer look at the night sky.
Bring along a star chart or astronomy app to help identify constellations and other celestial objects in the night sky.
Lastly, dress in layers and always bring a flashlight. Stargazing can take longer than you expect, so it’s best to be prepared with the right gear.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy clear night skies and stunning views of the stars from some of Colorado’s most amazing spots!
Colorado offers some of the most stunning and varied stargazing experiences in the country, from sweeping vistas of the Rocky Mountains to secluded dunes and canyons.
Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just appreciate the beauty of the night sky, there are plenty of places in Colorado to take it all in.
So pack up your telescope, bring some hot cocoa, and head out to one of these amazing locations to marvel at the mysteries of the universe.
What are your favorite star gazing destinations in Colorado? Let us know below.