As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into an astronomical masterpiece, with stars piercing the night and shimmering in the vast expanse above. Where can you witness this breathtaking spectacle? Look no further than Badlands National Park, the ultimate destination for stargazing. Enhance your experience with our Badlands Self-Guided Driving Tour, available for just $16.99, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the night sky and many more landmarks!
The Badlands offer one of the darkest skies in North America, free from the light pollution that torments more populated areas. The remote location and the wide, open landscapes provide a clear view of the celestial wonders above. Here, the stars shine brighter, and the Milky Way is seen majestically across the sky, a luminous span of beautiful stars.
Stargazing in the Badlands is not just about what is seen above, it’s about connecting with history and mythology. Many of the constellations we see today were named by ancient civilizations, each star pattern telling a different story. On a clear night, you can trace the Milky Way, spot planets like Jupiter and Saturn, and, if you’re lucky, witness a meteor shower. Although the Andromeda Galaxy is 2.5 million light-years away, it appears as a faint star in the clear, dark skies which is visible to the naked eye from the Badlands.
The best locations within the Badlands for stargazing are away from any artificial lights, such as those near the Pinnacles Overlook or the Sage Creek Wilderness Area, which are included in our Badlands Self-Guided Driving Tour, where you’ll get the explanation behind the crazy spectacles you see up above. Clear skies are crucial when stargazing so it is important to ensure that you visit during the new moon phase.
To make the most of your next trip to Badlands, check out our Self-Guided Driving Tour of the Badlands, or you can sign up for Action+ and gain access to over 200 tours for a single yearly price.