Page.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Page, AZ. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Page
- Top Community Pick: Jackson Flat Reservoir Boat Launch Parking Area (~56.8 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 6.0 at Wahweap Overlook
- Local Experts: Stellar Vista Observatory
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
Stargazing in Page is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. While enthusiasts often gather at Jackson Flat Reservoir Boat Launch Parking Area for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Wahweap Overlook provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 6.0. The transition between the urban infrastructure of Page and the more rural stretches of AZ creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Page
For the best results in Page, 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 Page Observers
When visiting Jackson Flat Reservoir Boat Launch Parking Area, remember to check if the gates close at sunset or if a night-use permit is required. Binoculars are a favorite for regulars the site for sweeping views of the Moon’s craters and larger constellations. 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.
Jackson Flat Reservoir Boat Launch Parking Area
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Bryce Canyon National Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Grand Canyon National Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Pipe Spring National Monument
" 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.
Wahweap Overlook
Glen Canyon NRA
"SQM of 21.2. Bortle class would be much lower even a small distance away from Page, however the proximity to the city was highly detrimental to the sky quality. Overall the evening was clear (one large cloud to the NW cleared by 10:30) but hazy. Transparency was just fair. THin smoke layer was visible overhead possibly streaming in from California. Smoke was very slightly illuminated as it passed over Page. The light dome of the city was easily the most dominating feature of the landscape. Visible to 50 degrees above horizon.Shadows cast by the lightdome were eaily seen, and full dark adaptation was not possible in almost any direction."
Near Wahweap
Glen Canyon NRA
"Clouds visible to NE and W, with haze everywhere else, which accentuates the lights from Page, Az. Inversion layer. Gegenshein not visible. SQM of 21.6"
International Dark Sky Parks
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Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.