By May Hunter, For Iron County Today
“When it’s dark enough, you can see the stars.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
Thanks to its high elevation and remote location, Cedar Breaks National Monument is one of the best places in Utah to experience the beauty of the night sky. As darkness falls, the monument transforms into a spectacular wonderland filled with brilliant stars.
Every Friday and Saturday evening from June through September, Cedar Breaks Rangers host a free Dark Sky Star Party. Activities begin at sunset at the North View Overlook with solar viewing, followed by stargazing and constellation tours using the park’s telescopes. Rangers also present astronomy programs at 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
As one ranger explains:
“At most star parties, you’ll start by watching our closest star, the sun, set behind the western hills. Then the more distant stars begin to appear across the dark sky, and the real stargazing begins.”
Visitors can use the park’s telescopes to observe planets such as Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars, and depending on the lunar cycle, you may even catch a breathtaking view of the Milky Way stretching across the sky.
Around 10:00 p.m., the constellation tour begins and typically continues until about 11:30 p.m. Along the way, you’ll learn to identify familiar constellations like the Big Dipper, often called the Great Bear. According to tradition, the bear roams the summer skies before settling into its long winter sleep, only to awaken again each spring.
At more than 10,000 feet above sea level and far from the glow of city lights, Cedar Breaks offers exceptionally dark skies. The lack of light pollution allows visitors to see thousands of stars that are invisible from most populated areas.
Come discover why Cedar Breaks is considered one of Utah’s premier stargazing destinations. Whether you attend a ranger-led Star Party or simply spread out a blanket beneath the stars, you’ll experience the wonders of our solar system, sparkling star clusters, distant galaxies, mythology, and the vastness of the universe, all in one unforgettable evening.
No reservations are required, and the program is included with the standard park entrance fee of $25 per vehicle.
Natural darkness is becoming increasingly rare. Today, nearly 80% of Americans live where they can no longer see the Milky Way because of light pollution. Here at Cedar Breaks, we’re fortunate to enjoy some of the darkest skies on Earth. Spending a quiet evening beneath the stars is not only inspiring but also a wonderful reminder to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the beauty around us.
Designated as an International Dark Sky Park, Cedar Breaks offers an unforgettable nighttime experience. Keep an eye out for nocturnal wildlife, including owls, bats, deer, bobcats, and even fireflies as they emerge after sunset.
Once the daylight fades, the adventure begins. Join a Star Party and experience Cedar Breaks in a way few visitors ever do.
For more information, visit Visit Cedar City or stop by the Iron County Visitor Center, 581 N. Main Street, Cedar City, Utah.
Hours:
Monday–Friday: 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
“Shoot for the stars. But if you happen to miss, shoot for the moon.” — Neil Armstrong