Visitors can now discover Colorado in a whole new light, or rather, under a blanket of stars, after the new Colorado Stargazing Trail™ was launched this summer.
The trail connects travellers to some of the state’s most extraordinary night-sky experiences – and with 13 International Dark Sky Parks and eight International Dark Sky Communities, Colorado is one of the world’s premier destinations for stargazing, offering pristine night skies, minimal light pollution and remarkable experiences that reveal the beauty of the cosmos.
Experience some of North America’s darkest skies at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, a certified International Dark Sky Park that is home to the continent’s tallest sand dunes. Or join a ranger-led programme or guided stargazing tour to witness the Milky Way, constellations and planets in remarkable clarity.
Visitors can combine exceptional stargazing with a fascinating glimpse into Colorado’s astronomical heritage by visiting Chimney Rock National Monument, where ancient Puebloan communities aligned their structures with celestial events.
Those who step aboard the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Dark Sky Train will journey into one of the last remaining frontiers of true darkness. Operating through October 2026, the experience departs Antonito at sunset and travels through the remote wilderness of southern Colorado. Along the way, local astronomy guides help passengers identify constellations, planets and distant nebulae (Fares start from £17pp).
Alternatively, Discover Colorado’s wilderness after dark on a guided stargazing hike with Estes Park Tour Guides. Guests can enjoy spectacular mountain skies while sipping complimentary hot chocolate or coffee.
For something more adventurous, Rewilding Expeditions offers night-sky packrafting trips across Lily Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. (Experiences start from £75pp).
Combine luxury and dark skies at CampV in Naturita, where guests can enjoy warm cookies, local cider and exceptional stargazing from a beautifully restored desert retreat. Alternatively, spend the night in a private Conestoga wagon at C Lazy U Ranch or stay beneath the stars in a deluxe skylight dome at The Nest at Blackhawk.
For an out-of-this-world stargazing experience, head to Kosmos Stargazing Resort & Spa in Colorado’s San Luis Valley. Rising from the desert like something from a Star Wars film, the futuristic resort sits within a Bortle Class 2 Dark Sky zone just 15 minutes from Great Sand Dunes National Park and has recently been recognised as the first DarkSky Approved Lodging by DarkSky International. Guests can soak in a private jacuzzi while spotting the Milky Way and shooting stars overhead, with luxury villas starting from £530 per night.
