FALL STARGAZING DESTINATIONS FOR SOLO TRAVELERS: EXPLORE THE NIGHT SKIES IN PEACE

As fall rolls in, the crisp nights and longer evenings make it the perfect time for stargazing. For solo travelers, this is an ideal opportunity to escape into nature, with nothing but the stars to keep you company. Unlike busier summer tourist months, autumn brings a quieter, more introspective atmosphere to national parks, deserts, and remote locations. So, if you're looking for a solo adventure that takes you far from city lights and into the heart of the universe, these lesser-known stargazing spots across the U.S. will inspire and soothe your soul.

1. Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania

Nestled in the remote area of north-central Pennsylvania, Cherry Springs State Park is renowned for its exceptionally dark skies. As one of the first certified International Dark Sky Parks in the U.S., this location is a stargazing haven for solo travelers seeking solitude. The park’s remote location in the Susquehannock State Forest means minimal light pollution, offering clear views of the Milky Way on a regular basis.

What makes it solo-friendly? The park offers designated stargazing fields, which are equipped with benches and flat viewing areas. For those looking to stay overnight, primitive campsites are available right on-site. Fall’s crisp, clear air amplifies the visibility of constellations, making it one of the best seasons to visit.

Best time to visit: Late September to early November

2. Big Bend Ranch State Park, Texas

While Big Bend National Park is a popular spot for stargazers, its lesser-known neighbor, Big Bend Ranch State Park, is often overlooked. Located on the border with Mexico, this park is part of one of the largest areas of protected dark skies in North America. Its rugged desert landscape offers a dramatic backdrop for stargazing. You can expect zero light pollution and an immersive experience with the night sky.

What makes it solo-friendly? The vast expanse of the Chihuahuan Desert provides unparalleled solitude for solo travelers. The park’s backcountry campsites, many accessible only by hiking, offer complete isolation, making it an ideal location to embrace nature and the night sky.

Best time to visit: October to early December

3. Great Basin National Park, Nevada

Tucked away in eastern Nevada, Great Basin National Park is often missed by the crowds. The park is an official International Dark Sky Park and one of the most remote locations in the continental U.S., making it perfect for stargazing solo. Its high elevation and dry climate provide some of the clearest skies in the country.

What makes it solo-friendly? For solo travelers, the Lehman Caves Visitor Center offers evening stargazing programs throughout the fall, where you can join small groups or stargaze solo on the nearby trails. The park’s high altitude also means cooler fall temperatures, perfect for cozying up with a blanket and watching meteor showers or the Milky Way without disruption.

Best time to visit: September to November

4. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

Utah’s Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden gem for fall stargazing. This remote park is often overshadowed by the more popular Zion or Bryce Canyon, but it’s an equally spectacular destination for dark sky enthusiasts. The park’s red rock formations and desert landscape create a surreal atmosphere under the stars.

What makes it solo-friendly? Capitol Reef offers both campsites and off-the-beaten-path stargazing spots that are perfect for solo travelers seeking isolation. The Goosenecks Overlook is a particularly quiet and scenic spot, where you’ll have uninterrupted views of the stars.

Best time to visit: October to mid-November

5. Cosmic Campground, New Mexico

The Cosmic Campground, located in the Gila National Forest of western New Mexico, lives up to its name. This designated International Dark Sky Sanctuary is one of only a few in the world. With no nearby cities, the Cosmic Campground offers some of the darkest skies you’ll find in the U.S.

What makes it solo-friendly? The campground itself is designed for stargazing, with unobstructed 360-degree views of the horizon. For solo travelers, it’s an easy-to-navigate, no-frills camping spot where you can enjoy the stars in peace. Fall’s cooler temperatures and dry conditions make for an ideal time to visit, especially if you want to experience the true quiet of the desert.

Best time to visit: Late September to early December

6. Kitt Peak National Observatory, Arizona

Located about 50 miles southwest of Tucson, Kitt Peak National Observatory is home to one of the largest arrays of telescopes in the world. The observatory is perched on a mountaintop, offering unrivaled views of the night sky. While it’s not as remote as some of the other locations, the guided programs and access to world-class stargazing equipment make this a unique experience.

What makes it solo-friendly? Solo travelers can join one of the observatory’s nighttime programs, where telescopes are provided for public use. It’s a great way to learn more about the constellations while still enjoying the peace and quiet of the desert landscape.

Best time to visit: September to November

7. Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, Headlands International Dark Sky Park is a quiet escape in the Midwest, perfect for solo stargazers. Fall nights are especially dark here, with little light pollution from nearby towns. The park is known for its incredible views of the Milky Way and, on rare occasions, the Northern Lights.

What makes it solo-friendly? The park offers trails and designated stargazing spots, all of which are accessible year-round. For those traveling solo, it’s easy to find a quiet spot by the water, where the sounds of Lake Michigan create a calming ambiance under the night sky.

Best time to visit: Late September to mid-November

Tips for Solo Stargazing

Arrive Early: Ensure you’re settled before nightfall, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.

Bring Warm Gear: Fall nights can get chilly, so layer up and bring a blanket.

Check for Events: Many parks offer special fall stargazing programs, which can be a good way for solo travelers to meet others or learn more about the stars.

Stay Safe: Let someone know where you’ll be, and always pack a flashlight, extra batteries, and plenty of water.

2024-09-18T19:52:17Z dg43tfdfdgfd