To reduce light pollution and protect the night skies, Visit Estes Park completed the Dark Sky Certification Mentor Program from DarkSky Colorado and the Colorado Tourism Office (CTO), a Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) division. Many communities are creating dark areas to restore visibility of celestial bodies, fostering education and community engagement to inspire future generations. Protecting night skies preserves beauty and supports sustainability, benefiting local communities through reduced energy use, increased property values, and improved quality of life. Additionally, dark sky initiatives can enhance regional tourism and enrich the visitor experience.
From Rocky Mountain National Park:
National parks remain as accessible as possible during the federal government shutdown. However, some services may be limited or unavailable. For more information, please visit: doi.gov/shutdown
Dark Skies in Estes Park!
“Reducing unnecessary light pollution saves energy, enhances stargazing tourism, and protects Colorado’s breathtaking night skies for everyone. This new partnership will provide tourism destinations across the state with the tools to protect our night skies and enhance viewing experiences, boosting our strong tourism economy,” said Governor Polis.
For more information about locations where you can see the night sky in Estes Park, please check out "See the Stars in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park" or listen to "Exploring Estes Park Podcast Dark Skies."
Rocky Mountain National Park: Night Sky & Astronomy Programs
Experience the magic of Rocky Mountain National Park after sunset with Half the Park is After Dark, a summer program series that invites visitors to connect with the wonders of the night sky. From moonlit mountain peaks to star-filled skies, these family-friendly events offer a unique chance to learn about astronomy in one of the country's most scenic settings.
Throughout Summer 2025, join park rangers and knowledgeable volunteer astronomers for two inspiring night sky programs:
Astronomy in the Park
Held at the Park & Ride Parking Area, this program begins with a ranger-led talk at sunset, followed by telescope viewing as darkness falls. With expert guidance, discover constellations, planets, and deep-sky objects.
Stories of the Moon & Stars
Gather at the Moraine Park Discovery Center Parking Area for an evening of stories inspired by the moon and stars. This program includes engaging activities for all ages and telescope viewing led by passionate volunteers.
Bring your curiosity, a sense of wonder, and warm layers—because Half the Park is After Dark is an unforgettable way to explore the skies above Rocky Mountain National Park.
Visit the Rocky Mountain National Park Night Sky & Astronomy Programs to learn more.
The Estes Park Memorial Observatory
The Estes Park Memorial Observatory (EPMO) is a community resource dedicated to fostering the scientific education of children in Estes Park and serving as an educational venue for the community and visitors. EPMO holds events throughout the year in conjunction with the local school system, the Estes Valley Astronomical Society, and the Rocky Mountain National Park.
The observatory schedules private and group viewing sessions and hosts educational lectures on astronomy, cosmology, astrophotography, and special astronomical events such as comet fly-bys and more! We also have fun ongoing projects like our Human Sundial Project. EPMO is currently offering opportunities for volunteers.
YMCA of the Rockies: Nature Workshop Astronomy
Part of our popular Nature Workshops series designed for adult learners, this immersive astronomy workshop offers an engaging blend of science, hands-on learning, and night sky observation—all set against the stunning backdrop of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Participants will explore the history of astronomy, learn how to navigate the night sky, and identify celestial objects like stars, planets, and constellations. The workshop includes a hands-on session introducing telescope basics, followed by three guided night sky observing sessions led by experienced instructors and volunteer astronomers.
Whether you're a beginner or simply looking to deepen your understanding of the cosmos, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to learn and observe under some of Colorado’s most breathtaking skies.
To learn more, check out YMCA of the Rockies and Nature Workshop Astronomy.
Dawn Wilson Astrophotography: Night Skies of Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park's expansive size and elevated terrain make it an exceptional spot for an astrophotography tour with Dawn Wilson. The park spans the Continental Divide, offering the chance to capture the deep, dark skies and the soft glow from the Front Range lights. Longs Peak, the highest mountain in the park and all of northern Colorado, is located in the southern part of RMNP, perfectly positioned below the center of the Milky Way, which extends into the southern sky.
Estes Park Tour Guides: Stargaze Tour
Join Estes Park Tour Guides to explore RMNP at night by headlamp and capture amazing images through nighttime photography. This is a great tour option for a first-night visit, as you get used to the altitude.
Estes Park Adventure Tours: Star Tours
Experience the magic of Rocky Mountain National Park under the stars on this high-altitude night sky tour along Trail Ridge Road. Travel by car to 12,500 feet with three scenic stops for stargazing, wildlife sightings, and night photography. Learn how to capture the stars on your phone (iPhone 11 Pro Max/Galaxy S21 or newer), and receive 3–5 professional photos taken at each stop—perfect for printing and sharing.
To learn more or book, check out Estes Park Adventure Star Tours.
Sustainable Events in Estes Park
Estes Park Visitor Center
500 Big Thompson Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517 | 970-577-9900
Visit Estes Park Business Office
P.O. Box 4426, Estes Park, CO 80517
- 2025 Visit Estes Park. All Rights Reserved.
-
