Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.

Dark Sky Night: Stargazing Under a New Moon

Location of Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia

Where

Program Location: Skyline Trailhead Parking Lot
Main Park Address: Natural Bridge State Park, 6477 South Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, VA 24578.

When

March 18, 2023. 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

When the moon is totally hidden, we have the darkest nights - and some of the best stargazing! Join park rangers for an exploration of our night sky at this International Dark Sky Park. Pick out constellations, observe planets and nebula through a telescope, and take in the silhouette of the star-lit Blue Ridge Mountains.

Be sure to bring something comfortable to sit on and a red light flashlight if you have one - it will help preserve your night vision as opposed to a standard white light flashlight. Meet rangers at the Skyline Trail parking lot. A short, moderate 15-20 minute hike to Jefferson Point will be necessary to attend the program.

A haywagon with seats for 20 people leaves at the program's start time to reach Jefferson Point. Pre-registration for the wagon ride is required; only one wagon runs per night and space is limited. To reserve, please call (540) 254-0795. Tickets for the wagon ride are $5 per person.

All programs are weather dependent. If a program is cancelled due to weather, we will have alternative Dark Sky programs offered indoors. Monitor our website or call the park to receive real-time information at (540) 254-0795.

photo of the park at night

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: Optional $5/person for wagon ride.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-291-1326
Email Address: NaturalBridge@dcr.virginia.gov