National Park Service

NPS invited visitors to “Explore Wonders of the Night Sky” through its 2026 Astronomy in the Park series.[2]

The published dates were July 17, July 18, August 7 and August 14. Programs began at 8:30pm at the Park & Ride on Bear Lake Road with a ranger-led introduction, then shifted into telescope observing, astronomy activities and night-sky photography. The program wrapped up at 11pm.[2]

An unusually useful access detail

NPS explicitly told participants they were welcome to remain in the park and continue viewing the night sky independently after the organized program ended. Park & Ride is open year-round, although current entrance, road and permit requirements still apply.[2]

Current status

All published 2026 Astronomy in the Park dates have passed. Keep this page as an archive until NPS publishes a new program schedule.[2]

Sources

  1. [1]

    Photo: National Park Service — Rocky Mountain National Park, Night Sky & Astronomy Programs

  2. [2]

    National Park Service, Night Sky & Astronomy Programs — nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/astronomy_programs.htm