Introducing the Dark Skies Trail

By Santa fe County

Explore New Mexico’s Dark Skies

Connect with both earth and sky by experiencing some of America’s premier places for stargazing. Here in New Mexico, you can experience an ancient and authentic adventure in our dark skies, so pull up a telescope and transport yourself into the galaxy.

Why New Mexico is the Best Place for Night Skies

Local photographer Jared Bella shares his collection of night-sky images with Matador Network, showing exactly why New Mexico has the most impressive dark skies in the U.S.

Cosmic Campground

The Cosmic Campground features one of the darkest natural night skies on earth and was the first International Dark Sky Sanctuary designated in the Northern Hemisphere. The distant horizon offers an unobstructed 360° view while the low hills surrounding the site obstruct unnatural light.