13 of the Darkest Places in the U.S. for Incredible Stargazing

"Your stargazing experience can differ greatly based on where you are in the world. That's due in part to light pollution, which can drown out all but the brightest stars and satellites in densely populated areas. For truly unforgettable celestial views, you'll need to visit one of the darkest places in the U.S. on a clear night. DarkSky is an Arizona-based nonprofit with the mission "to restore the nighttime environment and protect communities and wildlife from light pollution.""

"Through its International Dark Sky Places program, the organization recognizes sites worldwide that use education and responsible lighting practices to preserve and protect the night atmosphere. There are over 200 certified International Dark Sky Places worldwide, which are further categorized as International Dark Sky Parks, Sanctuaries, Reserves, Communities, or Urban Night Sky Places. Below, we've narrowed down the list to the best spots for stargazing in the U.S."

Stargazing visibility varies because light pollution can obscure all but the brightest stars and satellites in populated areas. For exceptional celestial views, visiting some of the darkest locations in the U.S. on a clear night is recommended. DarkSky, an Arizona-based nonprofit, aims to restore the nighttime environment and protect communities and wildlife from light pollution. Its International Dark Sky Places program recognizes over 200 sites worldwide that employ education and responsible lighting to preserve night atmosphere. Notable U.S. locations include Great Basin National Park, the Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary, and Glacier National Park, each offering distinctive landscapes for night viewing.

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