Stargazers at Boulder Valley Ranch just outside of Boulder

Boulder’s blend of soaring peaks and relatively dark skies makes it a fantastic destination for astronomy enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking an iconic Milky Way shot set against the Flatirons or a quiet night under a starry canopy away from city lights, here are some must-visit stargazing spots in and around Boulder.

1. Flagstaff Road (Sunrise Amphitheater & Beyond)

• Highlights:
  • Sunrise Amphitheater offers broader views compared with the lower overlooks like Panorama Point.
  • If you continue past the Amphitheater to spots near Walker Ranch, you’ll find higher elevations and ridges that block out city glare, making for an even darker sky.
• Pro Tip: Arrive at dusk so you can spot a good parking area, and bring warm layers (it’s breezy at night at elevation).

Flatirons at night

2. Chautauqua

• Highlights:
  • While it’s relatively close to downtown, the southern sky here remains fairly dark.
  • The Flatirons provide a stunning foreground for astrophotography.
• Best Season:
  • Fall evenings or predawn in spring when the Milky Way lines up above the Flatirons, creating a picture-perfect scene.
• Considerations:
  • The city lights might be visible to the north and east, but the south is your star-studded canvas.

3. Peak to Peak Highway Overlooks

• Highlights:
  • Multiple roadside pull-offs provide sweeping views.
  • Farther from Boulder’s center, so there’s generally less light pollution.
• Pro Tip:
  • Scout the overlooks during daylight to find a spot with an open horizon for maximum star visibility.

4. Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP)

• Highlights:
  • One of Colorado’s premier natural wonders with ranger-led astronomy programs (contact ranger station for times.)
  • High elevations and vast open spaces for epic starry nights.
• Pro Tip:
  • Check in with park rangers about after-hours access and where it’s permissible to stargaze. Camping restrictions mean you can’t just pull over anywhere at night, but official campgrounds and visitor programs are terrific resources.

5. Beyond Boulder

If you want to look at places further from Boulder check out my guide on the best places around Colorado to stargaze (spoilers: my favorite is Loveland Pass )

Important Stargazing Tips

1. Check Moon Phases: Dark skies are best around the new moon.
2. Mind the Weather: Clear nights are essential for prime star visibility.
3. Dress Warmly: Mountain and foothill temperatures drop fast after sunset.
4. Red Light: A red flashlight helps preserve your night vision and minimizes light pollution.

Enjoy Boulder’s Night Sky with AstroTours.org

While these spots offer excellent stargazing opportunities, sometimes having an expert guide makes all the difference. At AstroTours.org, we provide telescopes, laser pointers, and knowledgeable hosts who weave myth, science, and celestial wonders into an unforgettable stargazing experience. It’s a wonderful way to learn about Boulder’s night sky — from nebulae to constellations — and deepen your appreciation for the cosmos.

Ready to explore the universe just beyond Boulder’s city lights? Book a tour with AstroTours.org and let us show you the stars like never before. Because in Boulder, the adventure doesn’t end when the sun goes down — it only gets brighter.

Luke Huxley Astronomer & Educator

Luke Huxley is the founder of AstroTours.org and a passionate advocate for making astronomy accessible and exciting. A graduate in astrophysics from the University of Colorado, Luke combines his scientific background with storytelling to craft unforgettable stargazing experiences. He’s traveled the globe for astronomy, including a stint working with "Space Gandalf" in Australia which inspired him to start AstroTours.org. Luke hosts astronomy programs weekly just outside of boulder where he takes guests on a guided astronomy tour across the universe.