There are countless precious natural resources and species in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) that NPS staff prioritize for preservation. An essential time for park rangers, volunteers, and visitors to protect these resources and species takes place after dark. Supported in part by the Rocky Mountain Conservancy, RMNP runs numerous night sky and astronomy ranger-led programs each summer.
RMNP Night Sky
Led by the park’s interpretation division with volunteers who donate their personal telescopes for visitor use, these programs are an ideal time for people of all ages to not only gaze up in wonder at the stars, constellations, and galaxies all night long, but learn just how important dark night sky conditions are for the species they are excited to see during the daytime.
RMNP Night Sky Ranger Lead Danielle York’s goal for these programs is for visitors to not only have a positive, inspiring experience under the night sky in Rocky, but use what they learn to protect night skies in their home areas. In Rocky, “dark night skies are critical to the ecology of a particular area,” said York. “When species have access to dark night skies, it helps maintain their natural rhythms of getting food, migrating, and mating.”
Although the 2025 ranger-led night sky programs in Rocky have concluded, you can still stargaze in the park at any point during the year. To have a safe and enjoyable evening under the stars, arrive at your night sky viewing location before twilight to orient yourself with a star map or app, and to make sure the location is safe for you in the dark. Use a red-light flashlight so your eyes can adjust to dark conditions quicker than if you use a white light, and don’t forget to bring extra layers! Next time you gaze up in wonder at the stars in Rocky, remember that while many views of the park have changed throughout time, the night sky has not!