Stargazing
Where the Milky Way puts on a nightly show.
Far from city lights and nestled between towering basalt cliffs, Sun Lakes offers some of the darkest, most impressive skies in the area. On clear nights, the Milky Way stretches across the sky in breathtaking detail, visible to the naked eye in ways that many people have never experienced.
The desert climate means low humidity and frequent clear skies, especially during summer and fall. Step outside your cabin or set up a chair by the lake, and let your eyes adjust to witness thousands of stars emerge from the darkness.
What You Can See
- The Milky Way in stunning detail
- Major constellations: Orion, Big Dipper, Cassiopeia, and more
- Planets: Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn (seasonally)
- Meteor showers throughout the year
- Satellites and the International Space Station
- Occasionally, the spectacular aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights
Best Times to Stargaze
Summer Nights
June through September offers warm evenings perfect for extended stargazing sessions. The Milky Way is positioned overhead for optimal viewing. Peak meteor showers include the Perseids in August.
New Moon Phases
The darkest skies occur during new moon phases when moonlight doesn't wash out fainter stars. Check a lunar calendar and plan your visit during the new moon for the best experience.
Night Skies at Sun Lakes
Occasionally, during strong solar activity, the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) put on quite a show above the cliffs.
Under the Stars
Your Dark Sky Escape
Experience the magic of pristine night skies at Sun Lakes. Discover why our guests never forget their first glimpse of the Milky Way.
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