A Second Show After Sunset
Most visitors leave the Grand Canyon after sunset, and they miss one of its greatest spectacles. When darkness falls, the canyon reveals a sky full of stars so bright and clear that the Milky Way stretches from rim to rim. The Grand Canyon is a certified Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places in the country to look up. Here is how to enjoy its incredible night sky.
An International Dark Sky Park
In 2019, Grand Canyon National Park earned the title of International Dark Sky Park, a designation given to places with exceptionally dark, clear night skies and a commitment to protecting them. Far from city lights, the canyon offers views of thousands of stars, planets, and the glowing band of the Milky Way that most people never get to see from home.
Where to Look Up
On the South Rim, easy spots like Yavapai Point and Lipan Point offer wide-open views and room to set up a telescope. For the most dramatic sight, the North Rim lines up beautifully so the core of the Milky Way rises right over the canyon. Any overlook away from building lights will reward you, so just find a dark, safe spot and let your eyes adjust.
Stargazing Tips
- Grand Canyon became an International Dark Sky Park in 2019.
- Great spots: Yavapai and Lipan Points on the South Rim.
- Go on a moonless night and let your eyes adjust for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Bring a red flashlight, warm layers, and a star app.
The Grand Canyon Star Party
If you time it right, do not miss the annual Grand Canyon Star Party, held each June on both rims. Astronomers and volunteers set up dozens of telescopes and offer free night-sky programs, so you can peer at planets, star clusters, and distant galaxies with expert help. It is a magical, family-friendly experience and a highlight of the park’s calendar.
Make a Night of It
Staying near the canyon after dark turns one visit into two amazing experiences: the grand views by day and the endless stars by night. Dress warmly, since desert nights get cold, and give yourself time to simply sit back and take it in. Ask us about Grand Canyon tours and the best way to experience the canyon both day and night.