I don’t think I’m being biased when I say stargazing in Moab is some of the best on the planet. The national parks are free of light pollution, putting on a show unlike anything else you will ever see. Don’t believe me? Then come check it out yourself! As a Moab family photographer, I adore working with people so they can see the very best side of this city. Here’s what you need to know about stargazing in Moab.
Your Guide To Some Magical And Romantic Stargazing In Moab
Tips for Stargazing in Moab
First off, preparation is key. There are some nights when the stars just shine a little brighter. Here is how you can be ready.
Know the different lunar phases: When the moon isn’t as bright, you can see the stars much better! The new moon is the best time to visit, though you can also stop by before the moon is over the horizon.
Dress appropriately: remember, the desert can actually get pretty cold at night! Bring blankets and a jacket so you can stay warm.
Use a star map: You can keep it old school with a book, or you can just download an app. With either tool, you should be able to identify the constellations and stars.
Don’t forget equipment: binoculars and a small telescope will give you the clearest look!
Where to Stargaze in Moab
Arches National Park
Moab, Utah
Arches National Park is a certified official International Dark Sky Park, giving you the ability to see across the universe. With binoculars, you might even see the rings of Saturn! The Windows Section, the Garden of Eden Viewpoint, and the Panorama Point are all great spots to get in some perfect stargazing in Moab!
Dead Horse Point State Park
UT-313, Moab, Utah 84532
Dead Horse Point State Park is another Dark Sky Park with some of the most accessible viewpoints. Because you will be on a plateau, you are going to get a celestial show you’ll remember for years!
Canyonlands National Park
Moab, Utah
Canyonlands National Park is a member of the Colorado Plateau Dark Sky Cooperative with all the resources you need to get a good look at the stars. On really good Moab stargazing nights, you can even see the Milky Way!
ULUM
147 Looking Glass Road, Moab, Utah 84532
ULUM is a luxury glamping resort that gives you cozy accommodations beneath the desert sky. This Michelin-keyed resort is near the Looking Glass Arch.
Specialty Activities
Sleep Under the Stars
147 Looking Glass Road, Moab, Utah 84532
If you want a completely immersive experience, I advise you to book a stay at ULUM so you can sleep beneath the stars. Their tents have all the amenities you could need for the perfect week, plus the food is divine. You can spend hours looking up at the sky before going into your tent just steps away!
Moab Dark Sky Tours
Moab, Utah
The Moab Dark Sky Tours are sincerely unforgettable! They offer guided tours that teach you the best places to look out at the stars before teaching you how to capture it on your DSLR. You can choose between group and private classes in a number of different Moab destinations.
Stargazing Moab
Moab, Utah
Stargazing Moab offers two-hour astronomy experience that takes place in a quiet, dark-sky location just south of Moab. Knowledgeable astronomers lead every tour, and it includes a walk through a scale model of the solar system, constellation storytelling with a laser pointer, and conversations about the universe and our place in it.
Guests use both optical and digital telescopes – some capable of capturing detailed images in just a few seconds (my favorite!!). You’ll have access to binoculars, comfortable seating, warm blankets, and hot drinks like cocoa, tea, and coffee. A professional photographer captures images throughout the night, and you’ll receive deep-sky photos of what you observed after the tour.
Each group is small (up to 18 people), allowing for plenty of time to ask questions and enjoy the night sky in an unhurried, thoughtful way.
Don’t Skip Over Planning Some Epic Stargazing In Moab
Hopefully, this guide helps you as you start to plan your stargazing in Moab adventure. If you would like more tips on how to make the most of your Moab journey, let’s chat! As a Moab family photographer, I adore planning sessions that put you right in the middle of this gorgeous town. Send me a message today if you’d like to learn more!
