Bluff is the perfect location to get a breathtaking view of the night sky. Our location in remote, southeastern Utah offers incredible dark sky, stargazing experiences.
And, you don’t have to travel far to find a great spot with pristine, dark skies. Check out these top locations to catch a glimpse of the Milky Way and other celestial wonders. You won’t be disappointed!
Your Hotel
Your Bluff hotel will offer great night sky viewing on most clear nights. You should be able to easily see the Milky Way and other stars.
Sand Island Boat Launch
Take a quick 4-mile drive west from Bluff to visit Sand Island Boat Launch and Campground, now a part of the Bears Ears National Monument. You can temporarily park your car near the boat launch and gaze up at the stars.
International Dark Sky Parks Near Bluff
If you’re willing to drive about an hour outside of Bluff, you’ll find three International Dark Sky Parks that offer stellar stargazing opportunities. Some of the parks offer ranger-led programs to help you learn more about the constellations or even how important the skies were to Ancestral Puebloans.
What is an International Dark Sky Park? The International Dark Sky Association defines it as a land possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and/or public enjoyment. Click here to learn more about International Dark Sky Parks.
Goosenecks State Park
An International Dark Sky Park less than 25 miles from Bluff. The park is easy to get to, has picnic tables, and toilet facilities.
“The park’s remote, high desert location provides intimate access to exceptionally dark skies. Hercules Cluster M13, the Andromeda Galaxy, the Double Star Cluster, and Sagittarius Star Clouds in the Milky Way can be viewed here with the naked eye.” —-International Dark Sky Association
Hovenweep National Monument
Another International Dark Sky Park which is 42 miles from Bluff.
Ranger led stargazing programs in spring and summer can help you learn more about the importance of celestial events in Ancestral Puebloan life. On clear nights, the International Space Station is visible here.
“The park is designated as Gold Tier–the darkest of the three tiers of skies..”
—-International Dark Sky Association
Natural Bridges National Monument
Named the first International Dark Sky Park in 2007–about 65 miles from Bluff. During the summer, the park provides ranged led programs under spectacular starry skies.
“Notable for its almost total lack of light pollution.” —-International Dark Sky Association
Astrophotography
Interested in photographing the night sky? Check out this great article on Astrophotography by renown photographer, Bettymaya Foott.