With gold-tier dark skies (a rare designation), Idaho offers a glimpse of the universe unhindered by light pollution. Whether you’re sleeping under the stars or marveling at the Milky Way, stargazing in Idaho offers a celestial adventure unlike any other.
Idaho is home to a dark sky reserve and three dark sky parks. Central Idaho became the first region in the U.S. to receive the Dark Sky Reserve designation from the International Dark-Sky Association. The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve encompasses the cities of Sun Valley, Ketchum and Stanley. The reserve spans 906,000 acres—more than double the size of Los Angeles!
Idaho’s International Dark Sky Parks—Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve, Bruneau Dunes State Park and City of Rocks National Reserve—offer stargazers an opportunity to see lunar-like landscapes while enjoying star parties and ranger-led full moon hikes.
Click and drag your mouse across the map to explore the state parks
Click and drag your mouse across the map to explore the state parks
Each star icon on the map represents a Dark Sky area.
Feeling starstruck? These travel tips will help you plan your upcoming dark-sky adventures.
Although July is the best time to see the Milky Way in Idaho, the season ranges from February to November. If you’re visiting in July, prepare to stay up late—the sun won’t begin to set until 9:00 p.m. on most nights.
Immerse your mind in the world of cosmos, galaxies and constellations with this atmospheric-inspired playlist. Think euphoric meditation—as if you’re floating through space.
Stargazing in Idaho is easy, with events that offer a variety of ways to experience these cosmic features. Visit Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve, Bruneau Dunes State Park Observatory, the Herrett Center’s Faulkner Planetarium and Centennial Observatory and Spacepoint for star parties and observatory nights
There are a few things to consider when planning a successful Idaho stargazing trip—like weather conditions, moon phases and gear. Before you head out, check out these frequently asked questions.
Travel With Care Tip: Always check the weather before heading out, dress accordingly and tell someone where you’re going. If you’re camping, remember to be bear aware.
Moonlight often washes out the sky and makes it more difficult to see stars. Choose a night when the skies are clear and at their darkest—during the new moon phase.
Constellations can be easy to identify if you know what to look for. Navigate the sky with this Idaho constellation chart. If you’ve got little ones, print out this constellation connect the dots activity sheet for some added fun.
You can see stars, constellations, galaxies and other night-sky curiosities (like the Space Station) with the naked eye, but binoculars and telescopes do help.
Prepare to sit back and relax—your eyes will need time to adjust to the darkness (the eye takes approximately 20–30 minutes to fully adjust). If you’re near your car, make sure the headlights are off and avoid looking at your phone. Red flashlights and headlamps work best if you’re hiking or need light.
It’s time to get cozy! Blankets, portable folding chairs, snacks and water (or a hot drink) are great to bring along. Insect repellent can also be handy during warmer months. Remember, whatever you pack in, pack it out.
The stars have aligned, and you’re ready to start packing! Discover cozy cabins, unique rentals (like fire lookouts), luxurious lodges, scenic campgrounds and more.
Share your Idaho stargazing adventures with #VisitIdaho, and your photo might be featured!
