/https://tf-cmsv2-smithsonianmag-media.s3.amazonaws.com/filer_public/ef/fd/effd1e4d-d4d0-4aca-a2e9-84e0b334b56d/cf36e43e-596b-4104-a59e-9426cb826b92original.jpg)
Stay Up Late and Admire the Cosmos With This New ‘Stargazing Trail’ That Links Certified Dark Sky Destinations
Key takeaways
- Rob Hazzard / NPS Colorado is well-known for its daytime outdoor adventures, from hiking and mountain biking to fly fishing and skiing.
- Now, the Centennial State is linking some of its darkest places with a new “stargazing trail.” Officials announced the route this month, inviting travelers to stay up late and continue exploring long after sunset.
- Colorado has 13 International Dark Sky Parks and eight International Dark Sky Communities—and dozens of additional sites are working to achieve the designations, which come from the nonprofit DarkSky International.
Rob Hazzard / NPS Colorado is well-known for its daytime outdoor adventures, from hiking and mountain biking to fly fishing and skiing. But the state also dazzles after dark, with inky-black skies that provide crystal-clear views of the cosmos.
Now, the Centennial State is linking some of its darkest places with a new “stargazing trail.” Officials announced the route this month, inviting travelers to stay up late and continue exploring long after sunset.
Colorado has 13 International Dark Sky Parks and eight International Dark Sky Communities—and dozens of additional sites are working to achieve the designations, which come from the nonprofit DarkSky International. The new map connects those places while also spotlighting stargazing events and activities across the state, from dark sky train rides to beer-themed astronomy tours. The initiative also promotes Colorado stargazing venues and businesses.