This 'Star Train' Is One of the Best Ways to See the Night Sky in the U.S.-With Stunning Milky Way Views

"Astrotourism continues to be one of the world's leading trends, and many travelers make big plans to cross oceans and continents just to experience auroras, meteor showers, and some of the darkest night skies in the world. While there are seemingly endless night-sky viewing activities to find, one of the most unique is located in Nevada-Ely, Nevada, to be exact. The small city (population just under 4,000) may be remote, but it's famously home to the Nevada Northern Railway."

"One of the most notable, however, is the Great Basin Star Train. The train leaves the East Ely Railroad Depot just before sunset, bringing passengers along the Valley Vista route, above Steptoe Valley, and eventually to a desert area called Star Flat. Upon arrival at Star Flat, travelers disembark the train wearing red light necklaces (to ensure no one gets lost), which provide light without compromising night vision."

"Telescopes are also set up for viewing the sky, and assistants from the California Institute of Technology are on call to explain how to use the instruments and interpret all the celestial bodies you might see, including planets, galaxies, and the Milky Way. According to the Nevada Northern Railway, guests typically get to view around four objects, and the entire experience lasts about three hours."

Astrotourism draws travelers worldwide seeking auroras, meteor showers, and dark skies. Nevada-Ely, population under 4,000, hosts the historic Nevada Northern Railway with themed excursions. The Great Basin Star Train departs East Ely Railroad Depot before sunset, follows the Valley Vista route above Steptoe Valley, and stops at Star Flat. Passengers wear red light necklaces to preserve night vision. Telescopes and California Institute of Technology assistants provide instrument guidance and celestial interpretation. Guests typically view about four objects during a roughly three-hour program. The train partners with Great Basin National Park but does not enter the park. Tickets are popular and often sell out.

Read at Travel + Leisure