Adventure brief
Star Gazing Tour
Join Clear Sky Resorts in Cannonville for a high-definition Star Gazing Tour that unveils the night sky’s constellations, Milky Way, and moon through powerful telescopes. Even cloudy nights offer engaging stargazing discussions, making every outing unforgettable.
Clear Sky Resorts: Cannonville / Bryce offers a remarkable gateway into the celestial world with its immersive Star Gazing Tour. Situated along Utah’s scenic Highway 12 corridor, just outside Bryce Canyon National Park, Cannonville provides a dark-sky environment ideal for night-sky observation. This region is known for its dramatic geological features—red sandstone cliffs, hoodoos, and expansive canyons carved by millennia of erosion.
These elements create a stunning backdrop for an evening under the stars. The Star Gazing Tour invites you to engage directly with the cosmos through high-definition telescopes that reveal the intricate details of our solar system and beyond. Guides lead the group through prominent constellations and deep-sky wonders including the Milky Way’s luminous band stretching overhead.
This tour is designed for all ages and skill levels, turning complex astronomical phenomena into accessible stories and visuals. Even on nights when clouds obscure the view, the experience remains captivating. The guides share insightful narratives about the galaxy’s structure, the life cycles of stars, and the mythologies behind constellation patterns, turning waiting into an enriching discussion.
This adaptability makes the tour a dependable choice for visitors eager to connect with the night sky regardless of weather. Clear Sky Resorts’ location offers one of the best stargazing conditions in the western United States, a blend of minimal light pollution and high elevation that enhances visual clarity. The company’s commitment to education and visitor engagement grants a rare, hands-on celestial adventure that complements the iconic landscape of southern Utah.
Whether you’re stepping away from Bryce Canyon’s iconic trails or staying nearby, this night tour stands out as a thoughtful and thrilling encounter with the universe overhead.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Early for Dark Adaptationessential
Give your eyes 20–30 minutes to adjust to the dark before the tour begins to maximize your night vision.
- 02Dress Warmlyessential
Temperatures drop significantly after sunset—bring layers and a warm hat to stay comfortable.
- 03Turn Off Electronicsessential
Avoid phone or flashlight use to reduce light pollution and preserve night vision during the tour.
- 04Bring a Red Lightinfo
If you need a flashlight, use a red light to preserve dark adaptation for yourself and others.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Warm Layers
Keep comfortable during chilly nighttime conditions with insulated jackets and hats.
fall|winter|springEssentialRed LED Flashlight
Preserve night vision and minimize light pollution when navigating around the site.
EssentialBinoculars
Enhances unaided eye viewing and helps spot details before using the telescope.
Sturdy Folding Chair
Provides comfortable seating for longer viewing sessions.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Red Canyon’s vibrant hoodoo trails just west of Cannonville, Kodachrome Basin State Park’s unique sandstone spires, a short drive away
Local fauna
Mule deer often spotted in the evenings, Great horned owls active at dusk
Historic heritage
This area lies within the ancestral lands of the Paiute tribes, who integrated night sky stories into their cultural traditions.
Mindful exploration
Clear Sky Resorts actively promotes dark-sky preservation to minimize light pollution and protect nocturnal wildlife habitats.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- The open field near 855 UT-12 meeting point, Nearby elevated ridges around Cannonville, Skyline points overlooking Bryce Canyon
- Subjects
- Milky Way arching above Bryce’s red rock formations, Close-up shots of celestial bodies through telescopes, Silhouettes of towering hoodoos against starry skies
- Best times
- Nightfall, After midnight, Clear moonless nights
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need prior astronomy knowledge to join the tour?
No, the tour is designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike, with guides explaining everything clearly.
What happens if it’s cloudy or rainy on the night of the tour?
Cloudy nights still include engaging discussions about astronomy and galaxy facts, making it a worthwhile experience regardless.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the family-friendly tour welcomes visitors of all ages.
How far is Cannonville from Bryce Canyon National Park?
Cannonville is about 15 miles east of Bryce Canyon, making it an easy addition to any southern Utah itinerary.
Can I bring my own telescope?
While the tour provides high-definition telescopes, guests are welcome to bring personal equipment.
How should I dress for the tour?
Wear warm layers and sturdy footwear as temperatures can drop sharply after dark.