Moab isn’t just famous for its red rock landscapes and epic trails—it’s also one of the best places in the U.S. for stargazing. With minimal light pollution and wide-open desert skies, the Moab area offers unforgettable night skies filled with stars, planets, and even the Milky Way.
If you’ve never experienced true dark sky viewing, you’re in for something magical. Here are the top places to go stargazing near Moab and some tips to help you get the most out of your night under the stars. –
Best Stargazing spot near Moab
Dead Horse Point State Park
- Distance from Moab:~ 45Minutes
- Why Go: Designated a Dark Sky Park, it offers breathtaking views from the mesa top, especially at the Dead Horse Point Overlook.
- Tips: Bring a blanket or camp chair it maybe windy, but the sky views are unmatched!
Arches National Park
- Distance from Moab: 10Minutes
- Best Spots: The Windows Section, Balanced Rock, and Panorama Point
- Why Go: Dramatic Rock formations make incredible silhouettes against a starry backdrop.
- Tips: Arches is open 24/7, but make sure to check in advance for timed entry requirements.
Canyonlands National Park (Island in the sky district)
- Distance from Moab: 40Minutes
- Best Spots: Grandview Point. Green River Overlook
- Why Go: A certified International Dark Sky Park, this spot offers expansive horizons with little to no light interference
- Tips: Plan your visit during a new moon for the darkest skies.
Wilson Arch
- Distance from Moab: 25minuted south on U.S. 191
- Why Go: This roadside arch offers easy access and great stargazing, especially if you’re short on time.
- Tips: Arrive Early to hike up and find a good viewing spot.
Behind the Rocks Wilderness Area
- Distance from Moab:~20 Minutes
- Why Go: Lesser-Known and very dark, this area is ideal for solitude and sky-watching.
- Tips: It’s remote- have a GPS or Offline map and let someone know where you’re going.
Stargazing Tips for Moab
- Avoid Full Moons: The darker the night, the more stares you’ll see.
- Bring a red flashlight: Red light wont ruin your night vision white light does.
- use a stargazing app: Apps like Sky Guide or Star Walk help you identify constellations and planets.
- Dress warmly: Even summer night in the desert can get chilly.
- Be patient: Let your eyes adjust to the darkness for 20-30 minutes.
Don’t Miss These Events
- Perseid Meteor shower (August)
- Milky Way Core (Visible From March to October)
- International Dark Sky Week (April)
If you’re into night photography, try these:
- Turret Arch through North Window (Arches)
- Mesa Arch (Canyonlands) at dawn or under moonlight
- Dead Horse Point for capturing the milky way with dramatic cliffs
Whether you’re a seasoned astrophotography or just want to lie on a blanket and watch the stars, Moab is one of the best places in the world to reconnect with the night sky. Take a break from the trails and immerse yourself in the quiet wonder of the cosmos.
