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

Dark Sky Night: Draconids Meteor Shower Watch

Location of Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia

Where

Natural Bridge State Park, 6477 South Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, VA 24578.
Skyline Trailhead Parking Lot

When

Oct. 7, 2023. 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

If you ever wanted to see a shooting star, come join our meteor shower watch! 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 more than a white light flashlight. Meet rangers at the Skyline Trail parking lot. A moderate 10-minute hike will be necessary once the program begins.

A haywagon with seats for 20 people leaves at the program's start to reach the viewing location. Pre-registration for the wagon ride is required; only one wagon runs per night and space is limited. To reserve, call (540) 254-0795. Tickets for the wagon ride are $2 per person, cash with exact change only.

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 with stars

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: Optional $2/person for wagon ride.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-291-1326
Email Address: NaturalBridge@dcr.virginia.gov