New for Summer 2026: A First-of-Its-Kind Trail Connecting Travelers to Colorado’s Stunning Night Skies, Dark Sky Parks and Star-Filled Communities
Denver, COLO., June 2, 2026 -- The Colorado Tourism Office (CTO) today launched the Colorado Stargazing Trail™, a new statewide guide connecting Coloradans and visitors to the state’s extraordinary night-sky experiences in conjunction with Colorado Dark Sky Month in June. The trail maps a constellation of Colorado’s certified International Dark Sky Parks and Communities, along with unique stargazing events and experiences, offering a tool to plan an unforgettable trip under the stars.
Colorado is home to 13 International Dark Sky Parks and eight International Dark Sky Communities that have committed to reducing light pollution and protecting one of the state’s most awe-inspiring natural resources: the night sky. The state also leads the world with more than 30 locations, including 12 state parks, that have officially begun the process of earning International Dark Sky Place certification.
“Colorado is known for our world class outdoors and natural beauty that we love and that draws visitors from around the world. This new guide will provide Coloradans and visitors alike with a map of the constellations to experience the beauty and wonder of our night skies and support our local tourism economies,” said Governor Polis.
The night sky is Colorado’s ultimate adventure. Whether you’re hiking into a remote dark sky park, riding a historic train through a canyon at dusk, or sipping a craft beer under a blanket of stars, the Colorado Stargazing Trail offers something for every traveler. Highlights include:
- Guided stargazing and ranger-led night sky programs in parks including Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, home to the tallest dunes in North America and a certified International Dark Sky Park, and Chimney Rock National Monument, where ancient celestial alignments meet modern astronomy.
- Star-filled rides along Colorado’s railroads including the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad Dark Sky Train, a one-of-a-kind astronomy experience winding through the mountains of southern Colorado.
- Nighttime outdoor adventures like a moonlit hike with Estes Park Tour Guides or a night sky packraft trip with Rewilding Expeditions in Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the country’s most beloved wilderness destinations.
- Stargazing events including public and private Star Parties at Smokey Jack Observatory in Westcliffe and dome tours and telescope viewings at the Gunnison Valley Observatory.
- Stargazing retreats include warm cookies, local cider and spectacular dark skies at CampV in Naturita, a private Conestoga Campout at C Lazy U Ranch or a dome stargazing experience at The Nest at Blackhawk.
- An immersive lodging experience at Kosmos Stargazing Resort & Spa in Colorado’s San Luis Valley, a recent DarkSky Approved Lodging by DarkSky International for its commitment to responsible outdoor lighting and environmental stewardship.
- Night sky programming at of Colorado’s 13 International Dark Sky Parks and Communities including:
- Old Snowmass became Colorado’s newest International Dark Sky Community in February 2026.
- Jackson Lake State Park is Colorado’s first International Dark Sky certified state park.
- Breckenridge became Colorado’s first mountain ski resort community to earn International Dark Sky Community designation in late 2025.
“The Colorado Stargazing Trail highlights the innovative ways communities across the state are protecting their night skies while creating unforgettable visitor experiences,” said Timothy Wolfe, director of the Colorado Tourism Office. “From remote wilderness adventures to vibrant mountain towns and cultural landmarks, the trail invites travelers to experience a different side of Colorado — one that comes alive after dark.”
Do Colorado Right: Stargazing Responsibly
Colorado’s dark skies are one of the state’s most unforgettable experiences. Make every stargazing moment shine brighter with these tips:
- When outdoors at night, minimize light usage to reduce light pollution for better views of Colorado’s star-filled skies.
- Turn off unnecessary campsite, RV, and cabin lights whenever possible, and choose downward-facing lighting to preserve your view of Colorado’s celestial wonders.
- If you need extra light, choose red-light flashlights or low-lumen settings to help protect wildlife, preserve your night vision and keep the stars shining bright.
- For astrophotography, skip bright flashes, drones, and artificial light painting to fully capture the night sky’s natural beauty.
- Stick to designated roads and trails, pack out what you bring in, and follow Leave No Trace principles to help keep the landscape beautiful for every adventure ahead.
- When stargazing near communities or shared outdoor spaces, respect quiet hours and nearby private property so everyone can enjoy the magic of Colorado nights.
- Plan ahead for changing mountain weather, high elevations, and limited nighttime services so you can relax and fully enjoy Colorado’s unforgettable nights under the stars.
Start planning your stargazing adventure at colorado.com/colorado-stargazing-trail.
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ABOUT COLORADO: Colorado is a four-season destination offering unparalleled adventure and recreational pursuits, a thriving arts scene, a rich cultural heritage, flavorful cuisine and 28 renowned ski areas and resorts. The state's breathtaking scenic landscape boasts natural hot springs, the headwaters of seven major rivers, many peaceful lakes and reservoirs, 13 national parks and monuments, 26 scenic and historic byways and 58 mountain peaks that top 14,000 feet. For more information or a copy of the Colorado Official State Vacation Guide, visit www.COLORADO.com or call 1-800 COLORADO. Follow Colorado on Facebook, Instagram, TikTokand YouTube.
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