The night skies over Jackson Hole are some of the clearest and brightest you’ll see. Thanks to Wyoming’s low population density, there are fewer cities and artificial light sources to obscure the view. At an elevation of 6,311 feet, Jackson Hole offers a unique stargazing experience. You’re not just seeing the stars more clearly, you’re also closer to them, looking through less of Earth’s atmosphere, which enhances the view. Here’s how to make the most of stargazing in Jackson Hole and witness a little slice of heaven.

Where to go Stargazing in Jackson Hole

You can get some pretty incredible views of the night sky all around town, but the prime location is the Grand Teton National Park. This iconic national park and designated dark sky area is a stargazing paradise; head to Mormon Row for the classic view of the Milky Way rising behind the historic Moulton Barn.

For more ambitious stargazers, you can head further into the park and spend the night. Death Canyon Shelf (don’t let the name put you off) is a high-altitude campsite offering stunning views of the Tetons and the night sky. For those after a more accessible viewpoint, the Snake River Overlook will not disappoint. With panoramic views of the valley and Teton Range, it’s a perfect spot to watch the sunset and then see the stars emerge.

What to Bring on Your Adventure

To make the most of your Wyoming stargazing adventure, make sure you bring your essential stargazing survival kit to match our local weather. Here are the basics:

What to Wear:

  • Come wrapped up in layers. Even though the summer days can be balmy, the temperature drops sharply, so bring a hat and gloves as well. 
  • For maximum coziness, bring along a blanket and camping chair. 

Stargazing Essentials:

  • Bring along some snacks and a thermos of hot chocolate or coffee to stay fueled and hydrated. Remember, bring a trash bag and leave no trace.
  • Mosquitos can be bothersome, especially near water sources, so pack bug spray. Likewise, bears like to get into camps, so bear spray is essential!
  • A star chart or GPS app can help you identify constellations, planets, and other celestial objects!

Pro Tip:

  • Bring a red flashlight, as red preserves your night vision better than a white light, making it easier to see the stars.

Remember, check the weather and arrive before nightfall to set up and give your eyes time to adjust. Make sure you respect wildlife and don’t disturb any critters you might encounter. The National Parks Service offers an excellent guide with maps to backcountry camping in Death Canyon and other nearby areas.

Celestial Events to Watch Out For

Jackson Hole’s clear skies are the perfect place to witness some once-in-a-lifetime celestial displays. Throughout the year, eager observers can marvel at the planets, including Jupiter and Saturn, as well as a myriad of constellations that tell stories as old as time. 

In August, you can catch the Perseids meteor shower, and in December, Geminids is visible. From late spring to early fall, the Milky Way's ethereal glow paints the sky. While less predictable, the elusive aurora borealis occasionally graces the Jackson Hole sky with its mesmerizing cascade of colors. 

For those seeking guidance in their celestial exploration, Wyoming Stargazing, a local non-profit organization, hosts free public stargazing events every Thursday night at Rendezvous Park in Jackson Hole. You can also learn more at the Snow King Observatory & Planetarium, whose multimedia exhibitions and knowledgeable guides can prime you for your stargazing trip.
 

And there you have it, the essential for stargazing in Jackson Hole. Pack your sense of wonder and join us under Wyoming’s starlit canopy.