Four Corners.

The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Four Corners, MT. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.

Bortle Scale
2
Best Regional Reading
Sky Quality
21.89
SQM Zenith Value
Verified Sites
0
Community Vetted
Dark Sky Parks
2
IDA Certified Nearby

Quick Guide for Four Corners

  • Top Community Pick: local vantage points (~N/A miles)
  • Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 2.0 at Frog Rock
  • Local Experts: Southwest Montana Astronomical Society
  • Verified Observations: 0 distinct spots

Searching for a clear window into the cosmos near Four Corners, MT? While enthusiasts often gather at local vantage points for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Frog Rock provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 2.0. Atmospheric stability in the Four Corners region is often influenced by local topography, which can help settle the air for high-magnification viewing.

The Best Times for Stargazing in Four Corners

For the best results in Four Corners, aim for a ‘New Moon’ window. In these dark-sky conditions, the absence of moonlight allows the Milky Way to cast visible shadows.

Expert Tips for Four Corners Observers

Before heading out to local vantage points, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. For the best views at this spot, try to observe targets when they are highest in the sky to minimize atmospheric interference. Local enthusiasts often frequent this spot, making it a great place to meet experienced observers. Regardless of your gear, allow 30 minutes for your eyes to fully dark-adapt.

Local Top Spots

Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.

Scientific Audit

NPS Sky Measurements

Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.

Frog Rock

Yellowstone NP

21.89 SQM
Bortle Class 2

"Smoke haze on the western horizon due to wildfires in Idaho, causing elevational extinction coefficients. Night was calm and clear. Computer issues only allowed one set of data to be taken for the night. SQM 21.6"

Observation Date
8/29/2008
Elevation
2139m
Zenith Brightness
21.65

Frog Rock

Yellowstone NP

21.82 SQM
Bortle Class 2

"Smoke or haze sinking into valley. Smoke to S/SW and NW. SQM of 21.75. Clear overhead. Seeing good."

Observation Date
9/30/2008
Elevation
2143m
Zenith Brightness
21.97

International Dark Sky Parks

Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.

IDA Certified Distance: 124.2 miles

Teton County

Teton County, Wyoming, lies at the heart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, the largest intact ecosystem in the contiguous United States.

Category
International Dark Sky Community
Certified
2025
Land Area
10,920 km
Coordinates
43.9139, -110.6380
IDA Certified Distance: 144.0 miles

Jackson Hole Airport

Teton County, Wyoming, lies at the heart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, the largest intact ecosystem in the contiguous United States.

Category
Urban Night Sky Place
Certified
2025
Land Area
2.02 km
Coordinates
43.6088, -110.7380

Local Astronomy Clubs

Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.

NASA Night Sky Club ID
#329

Southwest Montana Astronomical Society

Bozeman, MT

NASA Night Sky Club ID
#309

Helena Astronomical Society

Helena, MT