National Park Service

The National Park Service says the monument's night skies offer “great astrophotography opportunities.”[1]

NPS recommends the Saddlehorn Picnic Area for stargazing and says night-sky photographers can also use overlooks along Rim Rock Drive for different vantage points. Its Rim Rock Drive guidance explicitly says stargazers can choose an overlook and enjoy the night sky from the paved scenic road.[1]

Ranger astronomy programs

NPS also schedules occasional Astronomy Night programs at Saddlehorn. The August 14–15, 2026 program used telescopes and a ranger presentation, asked visitors to arrive early to reduce headlights, recommended red flashlights and was weather dependent.[2]

Sources

  1. [1]

    National Park Service, Photography and Historic Rim Rock Drive — nps.gov/colm/planyourvisit/photography.htm

  2. [2]

    National Park Service, Astronomy Night — nps.gov/planyourvisit/event-details.htm