Stargazing has been an awe-inspiring activity for centuries, guiding explorers and leading to profound scientific revelations. Across the globe, one can travel great distances in search of the darkest skies, where the Milky Way unfurls in all its glory, or where the occasional shooting star traces a fleeting path across the night. Here’s the ultimate list of national parks and mountains that provide the best stargazing experiences on Earth. Find the nearest one to you and let’s headout!
University of Canterbury Mount John Observatory
This is one of the best observatories in the southern hemisphere and perfect for capturing that ‘Ocean of Stars’ picture. Its location in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve guarantees minimal light pollution. The observatory operates tours that allow visitors to use telescopes and learn from experienced astronomers. The turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo nearby also offer reflective night sky views and the Astro Cafe is quite popular over here. Just drive a few kilometers out of town and you’ll be star-struck by some of the best views of the Cosmos!
Hanle Dark Sky Reserve
Hanle in Ladakh, India, is one of the world's highest astronomical observatories and is a premier location for astronomical studies. The low ambient temperatures and atmospheric water vapor allows for more precise astronomical observations. Located almost 14,000 feet above sea level , the Hanle observatory is perfect for capturing pictures of deep space. The Indian Astronomical Observatory located here hosts some of the most advanced telescopes, and the stark desert landscape of Ladakh adds to the beautiful experience of observing the universe. You’ll have to take a surreal journey across the Changthang plateau to reach this secluded spot.
Glacier Point
Glacier Point provides a panoramic vista of Yosemite National Park and its night sky. You can see the Milky Way and satellites hovering above without any visual aid. May or June is the best time to visit, right before the summer crowds hit. Rangers often lead night sky programs that can enhance your stargazing experience. Taft Point is another slightly less known spot in the park that offers some of the best sunset views and starlit skies. Sentinel Dome is worth checking out for its 360-degree dome and the hiking route.
Cajón del Maipo
This mountain reserve is the reason why Chile is the best place on Earth for stargazing. Cajón del Maipo is a canyon located in the Andean Southeastern portion of the Santiago Metropolitan region. The dramatic landscapes and elevation provide an escape from the light pollution of Santiago city. It’s also one of the darkest spots on Earth and the region is known for its rugged terrain, hot springs and panoramic views. The sky views are so gigantic and vast that you’ll feel like you are so tiny and insignificant in front of it!
Top of Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea hosts the world's largest astronomical observatory and offers crystal-clear views due to its high elevation and the surrounding ocean's stabilizing effect on the atmosphere. It’s also a dormant Volcano site and stargazing from the top of the mountain is one of the most wild and soul-stirring experiences. Be sure to check access conditions as the summit can be reached only by a 4WD vehicle and is sometimes closed due to extreme weather.
Grand Canyon After Dark
The Grand Canyon offers a magnificent backdrop for stargazing. Its dry climate and high elevation provide incredibly clear skies, especially on the North Rim. You can stay in the Grand Canyon Village or Flagstaff which is popularly known as the International Dark Sky City. Buffalo Park frequently hosts night sky parties where amateur astronomers bring along their telescopes and red headlamps so that they don’t lose their night vision.
Pic du Midi Observatory
Nestled at 2,877 meters above sea level, Pic du Midi is renowned for its breathtaking views of the night sky. The observatory has been a location for astronomical research since the 19th century and now welcomes the public for guided tours and overnight stays. Whether you're an avid amateur astronomer or simply looking for a magical night among the stars, Pic du Midi is a destination that should not be missed.
