logo
This Montana Map Leads To 45 Stargazing Spots You'll Never Forget

This Montana Map Leads To 45 Stargazing Spots You'll Never Forget

Forbes20-07-2025
Northern Lights over the North Flathead River, Glacier National Park, Montana
Would you go to Montana to go stargazing? If you want to see the stars or the Northern Lights, drive to where others are not. That way lies darkness. Such is the case in eastern Montana, where millions of acres of public land and one of the lowest population densities in the U.S. mean some of its darkest night skies — and a booming reputation for astrotourism.
That's hinted at by one of its nicknames — 'Big Sky Country' — but with two designated International Dark Sky Sanctuaries and a less formal Trail to the Stars program of 45 dark sky destinations, eastern Montana is increasingly making the best of its unpolluted, wide-open skies.
Gateway To The Stars
Near Helena in central Montana, and serving as a gateway to the remote, eastern part of the state, is the lakeside Montana Learning Center. It's home to Montana's largest public-access observatory, which hosts a huge 25-inch aperture Dobsonian, the largest publicly accessible telescope in the state, among others.
'Montana is home to some of the darkest skies in the lower 48, and this year's astronomical events offer an unparalleled view of the night sky,' said Ryan Hannahoe, executive director of the Montana Learning Center, in an email. 'With celestial wonders like northern lights, planetary alignments, and deep-space objects more visible than ever, it's a fantastic time for both seasoned astronomers and curious stargazers to look up and explore the cosmos.'
The Montana Learning Center also hosts expert-led camps and classes dedicated to the night sky.
A scenic view of a desert landscape under the Milky way in Montana
Stargazing Sanctuaries
All you need to go stargazing is a dark sky — something you can find using any light pollution map — but parks that protect their night skies are hard to resist. In Montana, there are two International Dark Sky Sanctuaries — the vast landscapes of Glacier National Park in the north and the surreal sandstone formations of Medicine Rocks State Park in the far east. The 'sanctuaries' designation is rare. International Dark Sky Parks are common in the U.S., but sanctuaries are rare. Non-profit DarkSky defines them as 'the most remote (and often darkest) places in the world, whose conservation state is most fragile.'
Glacier National Park is the only protected dark sky to span an international border, reaching into Canada's Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.
Trail To The Stars
Selling yourself as a dark place ripe for astrotourism is easy, but coming up with a network of vetted places people can go where dark skies are guaranteed is much harder. However, Montana has done just that, creating a 'Trail To The Stars' program that identifies 45 locations ideal for stargazing, ranging from ranches and cabins to simple campgrounds and country parks. That website is also a one-stop shop for astro-tourism events happening around Montana.
Many of the events are held in Glacier National Park, which offers astronomy programs and Logan Pass Star Parties (on July 25 and August 22, 2025), as well as its Dusty Star Observatory Sky Cam that provides a real-time view of the sky. Meanwhile, Medicine Rocks State Park offers a regular 'Dinosaurs and Dark Skies' program of stargazing and fossil phosphorescence.
Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

The 17 Most Beautiful Places Around the World to Travel This August
The 17 Most Beautiful Places Around the World to Travel This August

Yahoo

timea day ago

  • Yahoo

The 17 Most Beautiful Places Around the World to Travel This August

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." Even though summer officially ends in late September, Labor Day Weekend signals that evenings grilling alfresco and beach weekends are soon coming to an end for most people in the Northern Hemisphere. However, we think August is actually the ideal time to end the season with a bang before the kids go back to school and life gets hectic again—so why not take one more leisurely vacation to soak up the final few dog days of summer? Here, we've compiled the best places to travel in August around the world. From Maine and Turkey to Bermuda and Norway, here are some of the most beautiful and culturally rich destinations to visit in Massachusetts Nantucket is a perennial source of design inspiration for us, with its quaint shops, rows of colorful hydrangeas, classic Americana aesthetic, and coastal architecture. With highs in the 70s and lows in the 60s, and only about five days of rain in August, it's an ideal time to beach, bike, and shop (check out our guide on how to shop Nantucket exactly like a designer). Shop NowIceland Nature lovers, rejoice! August is one of the best months to visit Iceland with its mild weather, outdoor activities, long daylight hours (about 15-17 hours!), and little to no rain. The Northern Lights also start to reappear in August, so you have a chance of seeing them in some parts of the country! Whether you stay in the capital city of Reykjavík or head to Glymur Waterfall for an unforgettable hiking experience, you really can't go wrong anywhere in this stunning island nation. Shop NowLucerne, Switzerland Each August the city of Lucerne, Switzerland, plays host to the Lucerne Festival which celebrates classical music and attracts some of the most-celebrated orchestras, conductors, and soloists from all over the world. The festival takes place near picturesque Lake Lucerne, making it an idyllic place to enjoy music. While you're there, take in incredible Medieval architecture, wander the charming cobblestone-lined streets of Old Town, and visit the city's art museums and gardens. Shop NowUganda, Africa August is one of the best times to visit Uganda, as it's a drier and cooler time of year (temps hover around 77°F), and you can participate in some of the world's best gorilla trekking. To get the full experience, stay at Trackers Safari Lodge, which is located just five minutes from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (a prime gorilla-spotting safari spot). Shop NowSydney, Australia Since Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere, you'll get to enjoy late winter weather in August. With average temps in the 50s and 60s, it's perfect weather for exploring all the city has to offer. Whether you take a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House, observe koalas at a sanctuary, or admire boats at the Sydney International Boat Show (which runs from August 1-4 this year), you're sure to have an incredible time. Shop NowSan Juan Islands, Washington 172 islands and reefs make up San Juan County, but you only can get to four by ferry (San Juan Island, Orcas Island, Lopez Island, and Shaw Island). With average temps in the mid- to high-70s and very little rainfall in August, you're almost guaranteed to have perfect weather. Though it's possible to see whales all year in the San Juan Islands, August is one of the best months to spot orcas and humpback whales. Shop NowSan Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina August is a great time of year to head to Argentina for skiing since its still late winter in the Southern Hemisphere. Though you'll still likely have great snow, it's the end of the season so you'll avoid crowds and it won't be quite as costly. San Carlos de Bariloche is in the Patagonia region and borders Nahuel Huapi, a large glacial lake hugged by the Andes Mountains. With Swiss alpine architecture, beautiful hiking, great skiing, and incredible chocolate, this city is an ideal spot for escaping the dog days of summer in the U.S. Shop NowKennebunkport, Maine Full of charm and character, Kennebunkport comes alive when the weather warms up in the summertime. There's truly something for everyone to do, whether you want to fish, kayak, kite surf, go boating or hit one of the trails for a bike ride. Don't miss the quaint downtown, which is filled with lively shops, art galleries and incredible restaurants. Where to Stay: Goose Rocks Beach HouseHomer, Alaska Though August is one of the rainiest months in Alaska, we promise the wildlife viewing and temperate weather will make the trip well worth it. Homer, Alaska, has average temps in the 60s during August, making it the perfect reprieve from scorching summer temps. Spend the day strolling picturesque Bishop's Beach, head for a day hike, or plan a bear-viewing excursion with a tour guide. Homer is also the halibut fishing capital of the world (and August is peak season), so fishing aficionados can spend the day casting for halibut and salmon. Shop NowTransylvania, Romania If you associate the region of Transylvania vampire stories, you're certainly not alone (after all, the legend of Dracula was based on Vlad the Impaler). But there's so much more this beautiful central Romanian destination has to offer, and August is the perfect time to explore its natural landscape, impressive castles, baroque buildings, stunning churches, and Gothic fortresses. Shop NowBermuda Bermuda is just a quick flight away for those living on the East Coast, so this island can be enjoyed even if you only have a free long weekend. Unlike most other islands, August is a great time to visit Bermuda because it is typically spared from summer hurricanes, and the weather is still quite pleasant. Additionally, Bermuda celebrates the Emancipation the first week of August with a Cup Match cricket game. During this time, the island's culture is on full display with food, drinks, games and festivities. Where to Stay: Rosewood BermudaTurkey Turkey is the ultimate destination for those who love architecture, design, culture and natural beauty. Whether you head to Istanbul to see the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and famed Grand Bazaar or opt for a relaxing beach or yachting vacation in Bodrum, you truly can't go wrong. Just don't go to this incredible country without treating yourself to a traditional Turkish hammam experience—your stress (and dead skin) will instantly melt away. Shop NowCharlottesville, Virginia Whether you want to spend a day on the Monticello Wine Trail, play golf on one of the nearby championship courses, or take a private sunset flight over the Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia's idyllic countryside is a treat in the late summer. There's so much history and culture here to take in—three founding fathers have homes in Charlottesville and there are incredible museums and historical sites honoring the legacy of Native American and African American people from the region. The area is also home to Michie Tavern, a Colonial-era tavern where you can still eat and drink today (the menu features authentic southern recipes that were actually served during the 18th century). Where to Stay: Keswick HallTrondheim, Norway When you think of the best food in Europe, Paris, Rome or Barcelona may come to mind. But if you're a foodie, Trondheim, Norway, should be on your travel bucket list. In 2022, it was designated as the official European Region of Gastronomy, and from August 1-3, the city will host both the Trøndelag Food Festival. At these events, you'll get to experience cooking classes, tastings from local food producers and craft breweries, and celebrate the food culture of the Trøndelag region. Bonus: With highs in the 60s, you'll get a welcome reprieve from the dog days of summer. Where to Stay: BritanniaChicago, Illinois Chicago is a fun destination any time of year, but in August the city truly shines. Whether you want to hit up a baseball game, attend a concert (the Chicago Jazz Festival will take place at the end of August), shop on Magnificent Mile, or eat your way through the city, you're in for a great time. Where to Stay: Pendry ChicagoLoire Valley, France Take a quick drive or train ride from Paris to Loire Valley, which is known as the 'garden of France.' This region draws visitors for its world-famous wine (including Sancerre and pouilly-fumé), beautiful chateaux, and scenic views of the Loire river. This summer, enjoy an immersive sound and light show in the courtyard of Château Royal de Blois or experience the Nights of a Thousand Lights at Château de Villandry when the château is illuminated with 2,000 candles. Additionally, the Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire will host its annual International Garden Festival from now until November 3, 2024. Where to Say: Château Louise de La VallièreOkinawa, Japan Japan may not be the first place you think of for a summer vacation, but the country's breathtaking beaches might just persuade you to hop on a plane ASAP. Just a 2.5-hour flight from Tokyo, Okinawa boasts clear aquamarine water and white-sand beaches that look like they belong on a desktop screensaver. Plus, from July to September, Halekulani Okinawa is running a 'Discover the Island's Glow' package that will take visitors on a sunset kayak in a nearby national park. There, you'll wade through mangrove forests and see thousands of fireflies lighting up the night sky. Sounds dreamy, right? Where to Stay: Halekulani Okinawa You Might Also Like Spectacular Gifts for the Most Stylish Women in Your Life 16 Gorgeous Indoor Plants for Homes of All Sizes Solve the daily Crossword

Meteor shower to dazzle over county this week
Meteor shower to dazzle over county this week

Yahoo

timea day ago

  • Yahoo

Meteor shower to dazzle over county this week

A DAZZLING display of meteors will be visible in Herefordshire this week. Known as the Delta Aquariid meteor shower, it will begin on Wednesday, July 30, and it is expected that up to 25 meteors an hour could be visible. So, where are the best Herefordshire locations to view the meteors? The best conditions needed are a clear view, minimal light pollution, safety, and good planning – so hopefully the weather is good with no thick clouds! Here are a few spots you could head to: Lugg Meadows and Bartestree Just outside Hereford, the village hall in Bartestree is a good observation site for stargazing, especially eclipses, meaning it should be perfect for capturing meteors. The Herefordshire Astronomical Society has the location as one of its observing sites. Lugg Meadow is also a great place to view the eclipse because it is a large and open space. Other locations the society lists are Fownhope Recreation Field and the National Trust property Berrington Hall near Leominster. Symonds Yat Rock and Little Doward Woods The Wye Valley as a national landscape is beautiful with its scenic views, so why not a great place for eclipse viewing? Sweeping views from Symonds Yat Rock make it ideal and just along the Wye crossing, Biblins Bridge, is Little Doward Woods. The Iron Age fort is an open space, but do be prepared for a walk. Hay Bluff and Black Mountain Right on the border with Powys, at 703.6 metres high, again this does require good fitness to climb to the trig point. Alternatively, just inside the Welsh border, the lane below Hay Bluff (or on top of the summit) is also ideal as a wild, open Brecon Beacons space. Arthur's Stone Arthur's Stone is a great lookout spot to the Black Mountains in the Golden Valley. For over 5,000 years, the stone has seen many solar eclipses, so why not some meteors! Parking in the layby adjacent to the stone is the best place to get to the ancient monument. Garway Hill A 360-degree view into Wales, Garway Hill has plenty of paths, lanes, and bridleways to get to the top. It is a wild, open hill with grazing ponies, the best countryside to view the meteors. Hergest Ridge One of the best sections of the Offa's Dyke Path, Hergest Ridge above Kington is an ancient earthwork and suggested maps have even suggested an old 'race course'. The Monkey Puzzle Trees at the top are an outlier for a spot which is iconic for a walk. It's another wild and open spot to view the skies above you. Croft Ambrey Farm and forestry tracks leading away from the National Trust property Croft Castle, will give you the chance to summit Croft Ambrey Fort. Excavations found the fort to be in use from the 6th century BC up to AD 48. The location, set upon the Mortimer Trail, is a great walk to the top at around 300 metres above sea level. Around a mile to the top, open views across the Marches and into the Shropshire Hills make this a good place for the list.

Visitor center opens at Cape Town observatory
Visitor center opens at Cape Town observatory

Travel Weekly

time2 days ago

  • Travel Weekly

Visitor center opens at Cape Town observatory

The South African Astronomical Observatory Visitor Centre has opened in Cape Town, marking a significant milestone in the country's National Astro-Tourism Strategy. The visitor center is expected to attract over 18,000 visitors annually and features interactive exhibits, historical telescopes and multilingual storytelling, including indigenous celestial narratives in isiXhosa and Khoekhoegowab languages. Visitors can participate in evening tours where they can view celestial objects through telescopes and learn about astronomy. • Related: South Africa tourism's sky-high ambitions "The SAAO Visitor Centre marks a major milestone in the implementation of the National Astro-Tourism Strategy," said tourism minister Patricia de Lille, who along with science minister Blade Nzimande officially opened the center. "The facility stands as a testament to how science and tourism can collaborate to unlock new frontiers in experiential and educational travel." • Personal Quest: Revisiting -- and rediscovering -- South Africa The center serves as a flagship initiative under South Africa's broader astro-tourism strategy, which aims to leverage the country's clear skies and rich astronomical heritage. The launch positions Cape Town as a new urban astronomy destination alongside the existing Twee Rivieren Interpretation Centre in the Kgalagadi, a large conservation area type of museum showcases and honors the knowledge and stories of the people of the Southern Kalahari..

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store