This is the third installment of a three-part series exploring the wonders of Denver’s night skies. Be sure to check out the other articles in the series: What to Explore in the 2025 Denver Night Skies and When to Explore in the 2025 Denver Night Skies. The Mile High City offers some incredible opportunities for stargazing and astronomical observation. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just beginning to explore the wonders of the night sky, this guide will help you find the perfect spot. From the comfort of your own backyard to some of the best dark-sky locations in Colorado, here’s where to look up and marvel at the cosmos in 2025.

Your Own Backyard

Your Literal Backyard

Observing the night sky doesn’t always require a trek to remote areas. Denver’s urban setting offers plenty of opportunities to view celestial objects with the naked eye, binoculars, or a telescope. The Astronomical League’s Urban Observing Program is an excellent resource for identifying objects that can be seen despite light pollution.

The convenience of stargazing from your backyard or a local park makes it easy for amateur astronomers of any level to enjoy the wonders of the universe in a relaxed and comfortable environment. From planets and constellations to lunar phases, there’s plenty to observe without leaving the city.

Local Star Parties

Star parties are community events where astronomy enthusiasts gather to observe the night sky together. In Denver, several organizations host regular star parties:

• Denver Astronomical Society (DAS) Open Houses: Held at the Chamberlin Observatory, these open houses are perfect for beginners and seasoned stargazers alike. Don’t own a telescope? These events are an excellent way to experience various types of equipment. If you have a new telescope, seasoned astronomers are on hand to provide tips and guidance.
• Standley Lake Stargazing: Monthly star parties put on by Standley Lake are a family-friendly way to learn about the cosmos. Volunteers with telescopes share views of planets, stars, and deep-sky objects.
• Sandstone Ranch Star Parties: In partnership with Douglas County Open Space, these events combine education and stargazing in a beautiful natural setting.

Regional Star Festivals

If you’re willing to travel, there are several annual star festivals that attract astronomy enthusiasts from across the region. These are usually held in fairly remote and dark areas perfect for stargazing.

• Texas Star Party (Fort Davis, TX): April 20-27, 2025 Though not in Colorado, this annual week-long star party is one of the nation’s premier events.
• Lake City Star Fest: June 7-8, 2025 This festival includes star parties, solar telescope viewing, and astrophotography lessons.
• Rocky Mountain Star Stare: June 25-29, 2025. Hosted by the Colorado Springs Astronomical Society, this multi-day event offers workshops, presentations, and plenty of telescope time.
• AstroCon (Bryce Canyon, UT): July 17-20, 2025 Also outside Colorado, the Astronomical League’s annual convention is a must-attend for enthusiasts willing to travel.
• Astronomy Festival at the Black Canyon of the Gunnison: September 5-7, 2025 Celebrate the park’s dark skies with ranger-led programs and special events each September.
• Okie-Tex Star Party (Kenton, OK): September 19-27, 2025 Another out-of-state premier star party celebrating it’s 47th annual event.

Dark Sky Sites

The Kline-Dodge Dark Sky Site

For members of the Denver Astronomical Society, the Kline-Dodge Dark Sky Site offers a pristine location for deep-sky observation away from city lights. Located about 60 miles east of Denver, this site is equipped with concrete pads, power, and other amenities to enhance your stargazing experience.

State and National Parks with Dark Sky Certification

Colorado’s dark-sky parks offer some of the best stargazing opportunities in the country:

• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: With its dramatic landscape and minimal light pollution, this park is ideal for stargazing. The South Rim is open year-round, and summer brings ranger-led astronomy programs.
• Curecanti National Recreation Area: Surrounded by mountains and mesas, this area’s campgrounds and amphitheaters provide excellent dark-sky views. Ranger-led programs are available in summer.
• Dinosaur National Monument: One of the darkest places in the U.S., this remote park offers breathtaking views of the Milky Way and even the International Space Station.
• Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument: Close to the Front Range, this park hosts Night Sky Programs in collaboration with the Colorado Springs Astronomical Society.
• Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve: Stargaze over the tallest dunes in North America, with summer and fall evening programs led by rangers.
• Hovenweep National Monument: Explore ancient Puebloan ruins under a canopy of stars, with stargazing programs offered in spring and summer.
• Jackson Lake State Park: Colorado’s first state park with dark-sky certification offers telescope viewing and educational events.
• Lake Fork Earth & Sky Center: Known for its high elevation, this site hosts weekly summer stargazing programs and the annual Lake City Star Fest.
• Mesa Verde National Park: Ancient cliff dwellings and clear skies make this UNESCO site a unique stargazing destination.
• Top of the Pines: Located in Ridgway, this recreation area boasts some of the darkest skies in Colorado, perfect for year-round stargazing.

Additionally, the State of Colorado recently announced that these twelve state parks are collaborating with DarkSky Colorado to work toward International Dark Sky Place (IDSP) certification:

• Crawford State Park (Western Colorado): Known for its peaceful reservoir, this park is a favorite for boating, fishing, and wildlife spotting. Its remote location offers excellent conditions for stargazing.
• Eleven Mile State Park (Central Colorado): Nestled in South Park’s high-altitude grasslands, this park is popular for camping, fishing, and windsurfing—and now, its stunning night skies.
• Elkhead Reservoir State Park (Northwestern Colorado): With opportunities for swimming, fishing, and hiking, this hidden gem also promises exceptional dark skies for stargazers.
• Golden Gate Canyon State Park (Near Denver): Just a short drive from the city, this park’s diverse trails and campgrounds make it a perfect spot for urban adventurers seeking a celestial escape.
• Highline Lake State Park (Western Colorado): Known for its warm-water reservoir, this park attracts swimmers, boaters, and bird watchers—and offers pristine nighttime views.
• John Martin Reservoir State Park (Southeastern Colorado): A haven for birding and fishing, this park’s remote prairie setting is ideal for catching a clear view of constellations.
• Mueller State Park (Central Colorado): Famous for its breathtaking mountain views and hiking trails, Mueller also offers campers a prime spot for stargazing.
• Rifle Gap State Park (Western Colorado): Home to a sparkling reservoir, this park is a favorite for anglers, paddleboarders, and night sky enthusiasts.
• State Forest State Park (Northern Colorado): As Colorado’s largest state park, it offers rugged mountain terrain, wildlife like moose, and some of the darkest skies in the state.
• Steamboat Lake State Park (Northwestern Colorado): Known for its alpine lake and water recreation, Steamboat Lake’s remote location ensures awe-inspiring views of the Milky Way.
• Sweetwater Lake State Park (Western Colorado): One of the newest state parks, this picturesque area features serene waters and unspoiled natural beauty—a prime candidate for dark sky certification.
• Staunton State Park (Near Denver): With dramatic rock formations and accessible trails, Staunton offers easy access to stargazing for those near the city.
• Trinidad Lake State Park (Southern Colorado): Overlooking the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this park combines history, geology, and stunning night skies for a unique visitor experience.

Colorado Communities with Dark Sky Certification

Several communities in Colorado are committed to preserving dark skies:

• Crestone: Nestled at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Crestone is known for its spiritual atmosphere and dedication to sustainability. Events like stargazing parties and street festivals celebrate the town’s dark skies.
• Norwood: Located on a 7,000-foot mesa, Norwood offers stunning night-sky vistas year-round. Popular viewing spots include Miramonte Reservoir and Thunder Road trail system.
• Nucla & Naturita: These western Colorado towns offer expansive rural landscapes for stargazing, with excellent camping and hiking opportunities nearby.
• Ridgway: Surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, Ridgway’s residents have embraced dark-sky preservation, offering amazing views right from town or nearby lodges.
• Westcliffe & Silver Cliff: Home to the Smokey Jack Observatory, these towns host star parties, telescope workshops, and a scaled Planet Walk between them.

Finding Your Own Dark Skies

Finding your own perfect stargazing spot is easier than ever with online dark-sky maps and tools. Websites and apps like ClearDarkSky, Light Pollution Map and Clear Outside can help you identify areas with minimal light pollution and optimal weather conditions. Combine these resources with topographic maps to locate nearby peaks, valleys, or open fields that provide unobstructed views.

Keep Looking Up

Wherever you choose to stargaze in 2025, Colorado’s breathtaking landscapes and commitment to dark-sky preservation ensure you’ll have an unforgettable experience under the stars. Check out our companion posts where we dive into the astronomical objects and events that can be seen this year in Denver and the best times to see them, helping you make the most of your experience. Clear skies and happy stargazing!