Best Stargazing Spots Near Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park is a certified International Dark Sky Park, and Red Sands Hotel & Spa has a dedicated star deck on site, so guests don't have to drive anywhere after dark to see it.

Why Capitol Reef Is One of the Best Stargazing Spots in the Country

Capitol Reef's Dark Sky Park certification comes down to distance from cities and minimal light pollution across the surrounding desert making .it a great location for star gazing Torrey itself sits at 6,837 feet, high enough that the air is thinner and clearer than at lower elevations, which makes for sharper views of the night sky on a clear night.

Stargazing On-Site: The Star Deck at Red Sands Hotel & Spa

After a full day of hiking or driving the Scenic Drive, guests don't need to get back in the car. The star deck is located at the back of the hotel near the fire pit, with unobstructed views of the night sky. Binoculars and star charts are available to borrow at the front desk, and blankets are provided for cooler evenings, which happen even in summer at this elevation.

Stargazing Spots Inside the Park

If you'd rather stargaze from inside the park itself:

• Sunset Point — a short walk from a marked pullout, also one of the best spots in the area to catch the sunset beforehand

• Pullouts along the Scenic Drive — away from Fruita's minimal lighting, several turnouts along the drive offer wide-open sky views

A few things to know before heading into the park after dark: there are no services or lighting once the sun goes down, so bring a flashlight or headlamp and know your route back before you go.

When to Go

The darkest skies come on clear nights around the new moon, when moonlight isn't washing out fainter stars. Clear nights happen year-round, but summer evenings stay warm enough to comfortably stay out late, while winter tends to bring the driest, clearest air.

Where to Stay

Red Sands Hotel & Spa is about 4 miles from the park entrance, with the star deck, an indoor pool, a full-service spa (the only one within 300 miles), and Rock Garden Eatery and Bar all on site. After a night under the stars, guests don't have to drive back to a room somewhere else in town.

Book your stay or call (435) 425-3688.