Colorado road trip

Finding a good stargazing spot in this modern world of light pollution can be difficult, so we found some optimal stargazing locations to explore by sophie middlemas

1. Goblin Valley State Park, Utah Goblin Valley State Park is about 150 miles away from Grand Junction, but it is a great place to stargaze due to it’s removal from nearby cities and therefore light pollution. 2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona To travel to the Grand Canyon from Grand Junction would take a bit of effort, but it would be worth it due to the scenery and lack of light pollution. 3. Cosmic Campground, New Mexico Cosmic Campground was created to give stargazers an optimal place to stargaze with as little light pollution as possible. The park is a certified dark-sky spot. 4. Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada Death Valley National Park is on the border of California and Nevada and given the high populace cities in both states this National Park is one of the only areas near California and Nevada where stargazers can gaze at the sky with as little light pollution as possible. 5. Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah Natural Bridges National Monument is a breathtaking place to go when the sun is up and the Monument only gets better when the sun sets and the moon rises. 6. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado The Great Sand Dunes National Park is a phenomonal place during the day with it’s giant dunes and endless possiblites of fun. When the stars come out at night the park only gets better with the sky seemingly stretching on forever. 7. Glade Park, Colorado Glade Park is about half an hour away from Grand Junction and is located on the top of the Colorado National Monument. There are few trees up on Glade Park which makes it a great spot to stargaze close to home. 8. Colorado National Monument, Colorado The Colorado National Monument has limited trees and is located in Grand Junction’s backyard. With limited trees and large open spaces the monument is a great place to stargaze. However, given how close to Grand Junction the Monument is, the higher up on the monument you go the less light pollution from the city there will be and the more stars you will see.

The Draco constellation is most visible in the month of July. The Ursa Major constellation is most clear during the month of April.

by mckenna bryant

Ouray, CO Looking for a nice place to relax after skiing or snowshoeing? Ouray Hot Springs Pool has geothermally heated mineral pools, and seven different springs to supply water. Enjoyed since the 14th century, you can enjoy the clear healing waters just like the Ute Indians. This destination has shower facilities available, and is fun for all ages. $18 per adult

Morrison, CO Dinosaur Ridge is a segment of the Dakota Hogback in the Morrison Fossil Area National Natural Landmark located in Jefferson County, Colorado, near the town of Morrison and just west of Denver. The Dinosaur Ridge area is one of the world’s most famous dinosaur fossil localities. $15 per adult

Grand Junction, CO Only a 45 minute drive from Grand Junction, Powderhorn is officially open for the 2020/21 Winter Season. Be sure to remember to wear a face covering at all times. Equipment rental will be available exclusively online with advance reservations. In the case of needing to control the number of skiers, Powderhorn will implement an online advanced reservation system. $79 per adult

Salida, CO The area is unique, towering over the Arkansas River, itself a beacon to white water rafters and anglers. The granite walls of the canyon stand like a series of natural cathedral spires that change hues as the light of day wanes. Wildlife that resides in the area includes the American black bear, bobcat, mountain lion, coyote, red fox and American pine marten. This destination is perfect for hiking, biking, fishing, camping and even rafting. $9 daily vehicle pass

Colorado Springs, CO The zoo is open with limited capacity per Advanced timed e-ticket entry. With many precautions in place, you have the chance to enter the elephant/rhino barn, hippo and penguin buildings, and even the giraffe barn. Don’t miss your chance to experience these amazing wild animals, their engaging exhibits and other irresistible attractions! $14 per adult

Glenwood, CO Glenwood Canyon Zipline is home to an amazing zip line across the Colorado River in beautiful Glenwood Canyon. They also have a 40′ climbing wall, a high adventure ropes course where guides will help you navigate through the elements. Lodging and rafting trips are also available on site. $29 per adult