Due to the expected impact of the winter storm, all Virginia State Park overnight facilities will be closed from Friday, Jan. 23 through Sunday, Jan. 25. This decision is based on the forecast for unsafe conditions and potential power outages. For updates click here.

Dark Sky Night: Thanksgiving Weekend Stargazing

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

Nov. 30, 2024. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Gather with family and friends to take in the starry, moonless sky above the Blue Ridge Mountains. Pick out constellations, observe planets and nebula through a telescope, and enjoy a hot drink with park rangers on a chilly night.

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 moderate 10-minute hike will be necessary once the program begins. The program costs $3 per person or $8 per family.

A haywagon with seats for 20 people leaves at the program's start time to reach the viewing location. Pre-registration for the wagon ride is required (and is not required if you are not taking the wagon); only one wagon runs per night and space is limited. To reserve, please call (540) 254-0795. Tickets for the wagon ride are $3 per person or $8 per family in addition to the program fee.

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.

photo of the park sign at night

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: No.
Extra fee: $3/person or $8/family for the program; additional $3/person or $8/family for wagon ride (optional).
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-291-1326
Email Address: NaturalBridge@dcr.virginia.gov