Browns Canyon National Monument

Salida, ColoradoBortle 2 Best in Summer

Truly dark sky, with the zodiacal light clearly visible.

Browns Canyon protects a rugged stretch of the Arkansas River corridor in central Colorado. The remote canyon setting and low surrounding population density contribute to reliably dark conditions. The monument is a good option for stargazers who also want access to world-class whitewater rafting during the day.

What's here

On the map

What to bring

Our picks for a good night under the stars.

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Beginner Telescope

A grab-and-go refractor for first light.

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Red-Light Headlamp

Preserve your night vision hands-free.

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Stargazing Recliner

Lie back and scan the whole sky in comfort.

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Star Chart App

Identify what you are looking at in real time.

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Nearby in Colorado

Bortle 3

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Montrose, Colorado

A natural amphitheater for the night sky with regular ranger-led astronomy programs.

Best in Summer

Bortle 2

Chimney Rock National Monument

Chimney Rock, Colorado

Ancestral Puebloan archaeoastronomy site with dramatic twin rock spires.

Best in Summer

Bortle 2

Curecanti National Recreation Area

Gunnison, Colorado

High-altitude reservoir country with minimal light interference.

Best in Summer