Dark Sky Night: Stargazing Under a New Moon
Where
Natural Bridge State Park, 6477 South Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, VA 24578.
Skyline Trailhead Parking Lot
When
Sept. 15, 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 more than a white light flashlight. Meet rangers at the Skyline Trail parking lot. A moderate 10-minute hike will be necessary once the program begins.
A haywagon with seats for 20 people leaves at the program's start to reach the viewing location. Pre-registration for the wagon ride is required; only one wagon runs per night and space is limited. To reserve, call (540) 254-0795. Tickets for the wagon ride are $2 per person, cash with exact change only.
All programs are weather dependent. If a program is cancelled due to weather, we will have alternative Dark Sky programs offered indoors. Monitor our website or call the park to receive real-time information at (540) 254-0795.
Other details
Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: Optional $2/person for wagon ride.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-291-1326
Email Address: NaturalBridge@dcr.virginia.gov
Event types
Astronomy/Stargazing | Outdoor/Nature/Natural History