Dark Sky Parks & Stargazing

With beautiful dark sky views throughout the state of Utah, and Cedar City's rural placement, it's no surprise that incredible dark sky views can be found all around us. Many of which come with unique landscapes and adventure opportunities in the day, followed by stunning views at night.

A short drive from Downtown Cedar City (40 minutes) you can visit an International Dark Sky Park with guided star tours from Cedar Breaks National Monument rangers. Or opt for a quiet evening camping beneath the stars in Three Peaks Recreation Area (15 minute drive) on rolling hills of lava rock and miles of mountain bike trails.

Dark sky views over red rock formations at Cedar Breaks National Monument in Southern Utah.
Dark Sky Views in Cedar Breaks National Monument | PC Mike Saemisch

Cedar Breaks National Monument

International Dark Sky Park

A beautiful red rock amphitheater with hoodoos and sweeping canyons, visible along hiking trails and scenic overlooks during the day, the views at Cedar Breaks stun during the day and at night. After a day at the overlooks and exploring the hiking trails and meadows, park rangers guide visitors through the night sky and constellations around us at Star Parties. Every weekend when the sunset fades and the stars come out, visitors can experience an unbelievable view from 10,000 feet in elevation.

Things to Know:

Cedar Breaks became an International Dark Sky Park in March of 2017.
Dark skies at Cedar Breaks should be enjoyed from scenic overlooks or the Point Supreme Campground
Telescopes are available at the Point Supreme Overlook on weekends during Star Party events
- Find a Star Party that aligns with your visit using the calendar included here.

Dark Skies at Point Supreme Overlook - Mike Saemisch

Where to Go Stargazing

Other Places Around Town We Love for Stargazing

With a rural placement and plenty of spaces around us that are removed from city lights, there are some great stargazing spots around Cedar City, Parowan, and Brian Head that our team recommends for a quiet evening with incredible views. Browse the list below to find some of our favorites.

Ashcroft Observatory

Stargaze without leaving Cedar City with a guided experience at Ashcroft Observatory.

Starry Skies over a dirt hiking trail with logs laid out for steps and towering crimson cliffs in the background in Kolob Canyons, Ut.

Kolob Canyons Dark Skies

Year-Round. The north side of Zion National Park, the views here are beautiful.

Three Peaks Recreation Area

Year-Round. Play on rolling hills, two disc golf courses, and mountain bike trails.

Yankee Meadow Reservoir & Campground

Summer - Fall. Fish during the day and camp beneath beautiful starry skies.

Navajo Lake & Campground

Summer - Fall. Camp at Navajo Lake and take in incredible views.

What Information Would Help Me?

When you head out to stargaze, it's best to be prepared! From packing extra layers to making sure that you're on public land and not private, there are a few guidelines to use for the best experience possible.

Pack layers, we live in a desert and it gets cold at night!
To help find constellations download a map, or stargazing app beforehand.
- We love apps like SkyView, NightSky, or Pocket Universe.
To help navigate at night without compromising the night sky views, make a red flashlight.
- Use red paper or cellophane to cover a white flashlight.
Check out a telescope! There are some available at the Cedar City Visitor Center and Cedar City Library.
The Milky Way is best seen in summer and fall evening skies.