Dark Sky Parks
Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area
Gunnison, ColoradoBortle 2 Best in Fall
Truly dark sky, with the zodiacal light clearly visible.
Managed by the BLM, Gunnison Gorge sits in a remote stretch of canyon country north of Black Canyon and shares its low light pollution profile. The area attracts fly fishers and hikers during the day and offers uncrowded, dark conditions after sunset for those willing to make the drive in.
What's here
On the map
What to bring
Our picks for a good night under the stars.
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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
Browns Canyon National Monument
Salida, Colorado
Remote Arkansas River canyon pairing dark skies with world-class whitewater.
Best in Summer
Bortle 2
Chimney Rock National Monument
Chimney Rock, Colorado
Ancestral Puebloan archaeoastronomy site with dramatic twin rock spires.
Best in Summer