Nevada is home to some of the darkest skies in the country, meaning opportunities for truly stellar stargazing abound. Unblemished, unbelievably clear starry nights can be found in all corners of the Silver State (thanks to Nevada’s population being concentrated in two metro areas and a handful of intriguing towns). Dark sky sanctuaries await on the outskirts of Ely, Tonopah, and Gerlach, where solitude is felt and nature runs wild. Ready to stargaze with no equipment needed? Cast your eyes on the Nevada night sky.
Stargazing
Go Ahead, Gaze Away
Dark Skies Finder
With millions of acres of rugged, untamed wilderness, and thousands of miles of get-outside potential, it’s safe to say the Silver State offers dark sky lovers a lifetime of some of the most stellar exploration on Earth.
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Angel Lake
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What is Stargazing?
Wondering, “what is stargazing?” It’s exactly what it sounds like: looking up and soaking in the wonder of a deep, dark sky and appreciating the majesty of it all. The thing is: you don’t need professional equipment such as telescopes or an astrophotography rig to enjoy Nevada stargazing. All you need is a sense of curiosity and a clear night.
How to Stargaze?
Now, we said you don’t have to get all fancy with how to stargaze, but we’re totally fine if you do. If you’re able to pull out the big ‘scopes, star charts, stargazing apps, and other accoutrement of the trade, go for it. But Nevada is the ideal place for the amateur stargazer, too.
There are endless gadgets and tools you can use for locating the Big Dipper, Orion’s Belt, and other notable constellations. But you may be amazed to find that they’re all super easy to spot in Nevada’s dark skies. Whatever you have (or don’t) — just get here to witness these heavenly wonders.
Moon Phases
Waxing, waning, full or crescent? Find out which mood the moon will be in tonight or on your next Nevada backcountry stargazing trip.
Travel Nevada Pro Tip
Embark on an adventure of astronomical proportions along the “Starry-est Route in America.” The Park to Park in the Dark route takes you from Death Valley to Great Basin via some of the least light-polluted spaces in small towns in the Lower 48. Just make sure you’re prepared to truly be in the dark. We’re talkin’ long stretches with no cell service, no other people, no nothin’—besides a few thousand stars. Do your homework, journey safely, and let the memories beam down.
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Had an out-of-this world experience in the Silver State? Tag #TravelNevada to help us show off the best stargazing in the USA. If we love your photo, you may find it featured here.
