The Best National Parks for Stargazing – A Sierra Nevada Perspective

Stargazing is one of the most awe-inspiring ways to connect with the natural world, and America’s national parks provide some of the darkest skies and clearest views of the cosmos. A recent study by Lake.com identified the best national parks for stargazing, highlighting places where light pollution is minimal, and the stars shine brightly. On Our recent Podcast interview with the CEO of Lake.com David I discuss what make places like Crater lake and Sequoia national Parks such special places to see the stars that rank high on his Report on the best National Parks to stargaze.

While the top spots span across the U.S., this is also a perfect opportunity to celebrate the Sierra Nevada’s contributions to celestial wonders.

Key Findings from the Lake.com Report on stargazing

1. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon – Crowned as the best park for stargazing, Crater Lake boasts an astonishing 98.6% of visible stars with minimal light pollution (an index score of 100). Its deep blue waters and surrounding volcanic landscape offer a serene backdrop for viewing the heavens.
2. Great Basin National Park, Nevada – Ranking second, Great Basin offers 97.8% star visibility. Its high elevation and remote location make it a premier spot for stargazers.
3. Canyonlands National Park, Utah – With 98.3% of stars visible, this park’s rugged red rock formations add an otherworldly charm to nighttime sky watching.

Other top contenders include Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Death Valley—all recognized for their expansive views and near-pristine night skies. Download the complete report here: https://www.lake.com/company/reports/best-national-parks-for-stargazing/

Stargazing in the Sierra Nevada

While the Lake.com study highlights parks across the U.S., the Sierra Nevada region is home to some of the finest stargazing spots on the planet. Let’s take a moment to shine a light on these Sierra gems:

1. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California – Ranked tenth in the Lake.com report, Lassen is a must-visit for stargazers. Its clear mountain air and remote setting allow for excellent visibility, with 97.2% of stars visible and low light pollution. Every summer, the park hosts its annual Dark Sky Festival, offering guided astronomy programs and educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.
2. Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada – Known as the hottest place on Earth, Death Valley is also a haven for stargazers. It’s an International Dark Sky Park, offering some of the darkest skies in the world. Popular stargazing spots include Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and Badwater Basin, where the Milky Way dazzles in full glory.
3. Yosemite National Park, California – Yosemite’s iconic granite peaks and valleys provide a breathtaking frame for the night sky. While it ranks lower in the Lake.com report due to light pollution from surrounding communities, locations like Glacier Point and Tuolumne Meadows still offer stunning stargazing experiences.
4. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, California – These parks’ towering trees and remote wilderness areas provide excellent conditions for stargazing. Sequoia’s high elevations and Kings Canyon’s expansive views make them ideal for spotting meteor showers and constellations.

Why Stargazing Matters

Stargazing is more than just a recreational activity; it’s an opportunity to reflect on our place in the universe and connect with something greater than ourselves. As David Ciccarelli, CEO of Lake.com, said, “Through stargazing, visitors not only witness the splendor of creation but also gain a deeper understanding of our role in stewarding the natural world.” This sentiment resonates deeply in the Sierra Nevada, where preservation and appreciation of the natural world are cornerstones of outdoor adventure.

Tips for Stargazing in the Sierra Nevada

1. Choose Your Spot Wisely – Opt for remote locations away from city lights. High elevations and open spaces offer the best views.
2. Check the Moon Phase – A new moon provides the darkest skies, ideal for spotting faint stars and the Milky Way.
3. Bring the Right Gear – Pack a telescope or binoculars, a red flashlight to preserve night vision, warm clothing, and a blanket.
4. Plan for Seasonal Events – The Perseid meteor shower in August and the Geminid meteor shower in December are spectacular events to witness in the Sierra skies.

Closing Thoughts

Whether you’re marveling at the brilliance of Crater Lake’s night sky or basking in the celestial glow of Lassen Volcanic National Park, stargazing offers a profound way to reconnect with nature. The Sierra Nevada’s parks and wilderness areas are gateways to these transformative experiences, inviting visitors to slow down, look up, and rediscover the wonders of the universe.

The next time you plan a visit to the Sierra Nevada, remember to set aside an evening for stargazing—because sometimes, the best adventures happen under the stars.