Protecting the Night Sky
Creating a magical evening experience
The night sky over Grand Canyon reveals a cascade of luminous stars and planets. These ancient constellations have shaped the arts, sciences, and ideas across the millennia. The night sky is inspiring. It is primordial. It is also imperiled.
Grand Canyon National Park is one of the last places in the United States where one can experience a star-filled night sky. One-third of the world's population - including 80% of Americans - can no longer see the Milky Way.
Grand Canyon National Park is seeking International Dark Sky Park status and is replacing light fixtures and bulbs throughout the million plus acre park to minimize light pollution and provide a pristine view of our galaxy.
What's been completed
- All of the park's 4,740 lighting fixtures have been inventoried and catalogued. 3,500 of these do not meet dark sky guidelines.
- Light fixtures and very-low-lumen LED bulbs have been tested for a wide variety of installations.
What's planned
- To achieve designation as an International Dark Sky Park, 1,500 fixtures will need to be replaced by 2019, the Centennial year of Grand Canyon.
- Expanded Evening Programs and new night sky viewing areas are being developed.
Improvements and projects in Grand Canyon National Park are only possible because of the generous support from people like you.
“
I remember getting a knock on our cabin door one night from the grandchildren. They had just participated in the night program and were so excited to share the news. They could see the Milky Way for the first time in their lives.
”
–
Jerry & Nancy Fogelman
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Current Priorities
Dark Skies
Grand Canyon has some of the best night skies on the planet. We're working to become a "Dark Sky Park" to keep it that way.
Desert View Watchtower
Members of American Indian tribes are working with the park to create a heritage area to share their art and culture.
Grand Canyon Trail Restoration
More than 350 miles of historic trails lead into the canyon. Each year, crews restore popular trails to keep them welcoming and safe.