Night Sky Programs in Rocky Mountain National Park

Author:: Staff
Updated:: Nov 11, 2018
Original:: Jun 10, 2015

Perseid Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park — Perseid Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park
Larry Fabiny

Ranger-led night sky programs are held in the park in the summer starting in mid-June.

Astronomy in the Park

June, July and August
Observe the night sky with the help of a park ranger and expert volunteer astronomers. Dress warmly, bring binoculars and a flashlight. Thirty minute program followed by viewing.

(See more about August's Meteor Shower)

Stories Behind the Moon and Stars

June, July and August
The night sky comes alive through storytelling and fun activities. Celebrate darkness at Rocky! Dress warmly, bring binoculars and a flashlight. Program lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Night Sky Festival

Mid July
Three days of fun activities, speakers, programs, and night sky viewing. Listen to a talk by park ranger at sunset. Public skygazing thru telescopes provided by astronomy clubs along the Front Range. Meet at the Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead. Look for more information in late June.

The Rocky Mountain Conservancy will also teach a night photography class on July 18. See the event schedule

Get the Official Schedules

Download the Program Schedule on the NPS website at www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/ranger_led_activities.htm

For more information about these programs in Rocky Mountain National Park, call 970-586-1206.

Aspen trees in autumn

Natural Wonders

Starting in late August, aspens in the highest reaches of the Park begin their annual quaking, a term to describe the aspens unique leaves changing a golden-yellow hue and how they react in wind.

Ken Burns, filmmaker

Natural Wonders

Famous documentarian, Ken Burns sat down with USA TODAY and shared some of the secrets of Rocky Mountain Park.

Sunset at Lily Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park

Natural Wonders

The park is chocked-full of lakes due to the large glaciers that carved out deep canyons and cirques, while leaving teardrops behind.

Fishing at Lily Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park

Summer Activities

With four main species of fish, more than 40 fishable lakes, and 25 alpine streams, casting a line is almost sacrilegious.

Park Ranger sitting with Children in a national park

Spend some time with a ranger to get more in-depth information about your beautiful surroundings.

Snowshoers on a trail in Rocky Mountain National Park

Winter Activities in Colorado National Parks

Whether you want to cross country ski, strap on some snowshoes, or grab a sled, Rocky Mountain Park is a great winter activity destination.

Wildflowers at Glass Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park

Best Hiking Trails

Hike three uncrowded trails in Rocky Mountain National Park: Sky Pond, Moraine Park to Bear Lake, and the Tonahutu Creek/North Inlet Loop

Alberta Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

Natural Wonders

All but one of Rocky Mountain Park's waterfalls require at least a short hike meaning that it's entirely possible to enjoy a waterfall by yourself.

Ouzel Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

Natural Wonders

This easy 2.7 mile hike passes by three named waterfalls and numerous smaller cascades and trickles along North St. Vrain Creek. Enter RMNP at the Wild Basin Entrance south of Estes Park.