Great Falls.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Great Falls, MT. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Great Falls
- Top Community Pick: Montana WILD (~71.7 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 3.0 at St Mary’s VC
- Local Experts: Helena Astronomical Society
- Verified Observations: 2 distinct spots
Stargazing in Great Falls is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. While enthusiasts often gather at Montana WILD for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at St Mary’s VC provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 3.0. The local landscape of Great Falls offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Great Falls
For the best results in Great Falls, 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 Great Falls Observers
Before heading out to Montana WILD, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. A medium-aperture telescope is ideal for resolving the rings of Saturn and bright star clusters at this spot. 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.
Montana Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Montana WILD
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Sieben property
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
St Mary's VC
Glacier NP
"Some direct glare creating difficulties in dark adapting looking north. M13, 31, and 33 all visible naked eye. SQM measure of 21.77"
Logan Pass
Glacier NP
"Clear night with very good transparency during the first set. Decreasing transparency for remaining sets. High cirrus move on on N NE horizon. Some airglow sarting in the evening"
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park
Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada, and Glacier National Park in Montana, U.S., are collectively the first IDA International Dark Sky Parks…
Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge
The Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge is located in Pleasant Valley, nestled in the Salish Mountains of northwestern Montana, United States.
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.