Dark Sky Night: Stargazing Under a New Moon

Location of Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia

Where

Natural Bridge State Park, 6477 South Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, VA 24578.
Skyline Trailhead Parking Lot

When

June 17, 2023. 9:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

When the moon is totally hidden, we have the darkest nights - and some of the best stargazing! Join park rangers for an exploration of our night sky at this International Dark Sky Park. Pick out constellations, observe planets and nebula through a telescope, and take in the silhouette of the star-lit Blue Ridge Mountains.

Be sure to bring something comfortable to sit on and a red light flashlight if you have one; it will help preserve your night vision as opposed to a standard white light flashlight. Meet rangers at the Skyline Trail parking lot. A short, moderate 15-20 minute hike to Jefferson Point will be necessary to attend the program.

A haywagon with seats for 20 people leaves at the program's start time to reach Jefferson Point. Pre-registration for the wagon ride is required; only one wagon runs per night and space is limited. To reserve, please call (540) 254-0795. Tickets for the wagon ride are $5 per person.

All programs are weather dependent. If a program is cancelled due to weather, we will have an alternative Dark Sky program offered indoors. Monitor our website or call the park to receive real-time information at (540) 254-0795.

photo of the night sky

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: Optional $5/person wagon ride.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-291-1326
Email Address: NaturalBridge@dcr.virginia.gov