The night skies over Jackson Hole, Wyoming, are breathtaking, making stargazing Jackson Hole an unforgettable experience. Thanks to Wyoming’s sparse population and minimal artificial lighting, the region offers some of the clearest, darkest skies for stargazing. At an elevation of 6,311 feet, Jackson Hole’s higher altitude means you’re gazing at the stars with less atmospheric interference, resulting in unmatched clarity that brings the heavens closer than ever. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a curious first-timer, here’s how to make the most of Jackson Hole’s celestial beauty and witness an otherworldly night sky.
Top Stargazing Spots in Jackson Hole
While the entire area around Jackson Hole boasts incredible nighttime views, Grand Teton National Park stands out as a premier location for stargazing. As a designated dark sky area, it provides an ideal setting, free from light pollution. One of the most iconic spots in the park is Mormon Row, where the historic Moulton Barn stands against a stunning backdrop of the Milky Way rising.
For those willing to venture further, the Death Canyon Shelf campsite offers a truly remote, high-altitude stargazing experience with panoramic views of both the Tetons and a sky filled with stars. Despite its daunting name, Death Canyon Shelf is an excellent choice for the more adventurous stargazer. Alternatively, the Snake River Overlook provides a more accessible viewpoint with sweeping views of the valley and Teton Range, allowing visitors to enjoy both sunset and starlit skies in one breathtaking scene.
What to Look for in Jackson Hole’s Skies
Jackson Hole’s clear, high-altitude skies reveal a tapestry of celestial wonders. Throughout the year, you can spot planets like Jupiter and Saturn and various constellations that have fascinated humans for centuries. The summer Milky Way, visible from late spring to early fall, stretches across the sky in an ethereal, star-filled arc. In August, the Perseids meteor shower provides a thrilling display of shooting stars, while December’s Geminids shower offers one of the year’s most impressive natural light shows.
For those hoping to catch a scarce sight, the northern lights, or aurora borealis, occasionally make a brief appearance, illuminating the Jackson Hole sky with cascades of green, pink, and purple. While sightings of the aurora are unpredictable, they add an extra touch of magic when they occur.
Guided Stargazing Experiences
If you want to enrich your stargazing experience, Jackson Hole offers several resources for guided celestial exploration. Wyoming Stargazing, a local non-profit dedicated to promoting astronomy, hosts free public stargazing events every Thursday evening at Rendezvous Park. These events often include telescopes and expert guidance, providing insights into the night sky that make the experience even more memorable. They also offer year-round, private stargazing tours including use of high-powered telescopes.
Snow King Observatory and Planetarium is another valuable resource for those who want to dive deeper. Visitors can enjoy multimedia exhibits and knowledgeable guides who can help identify constellations, planets, and other celestial phenomena, benefitting beginners looking to better understand the wonders awaiting them in Jackson Hole’s night skies.
Plan Your Stargazing Adventure
Whether setting up a tent in the remote reaches of the national park or simply stopping by a viewpoint near town, Jackson Hole is one of the best places in the country to witness the stars. Pack warm layers, bring a red flashlight to preserve your night vision, and maybe a star map or an astronomy app to guide your gaze. With each visit, you’ll find that the skies over Jackson Hole are not only beautiful but ever-changing, offering new sights and surprises each time you look up.
To elevate your dream escape, contact the Rustic Inn at 800-323-9279 or book your stargazing stay online easily! For a more immersive experience, discover the range of activities Jackson Hole offers, from exciting wildlife safaris to exhilarating outdoor adventures and wondrous stargazing nights, ensuring unforgettable memories throughout your stay.