Utah State Park Becomes Newest International Dark Sky Park

Utah’s Antelope Island State Park was just awarded the prestigious title of “International Dark Sky Park,” an increasingly elusive accolade in today’s modern world.

The award means Utah now totals nine IDSPs, more than any other state or province in the world. Antelope Island joins a list that includes Cedar Breaks National Monument, Natural Bridges National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, Goblin Valley State Park, Dead Horse Point State Park, Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park and Weber County North Fork Park as great places to see the night sky.

The designation goes to areas with “exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights, and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage and/or public enjoyment.”

Antelope Island is an hour from Salt Lake City — far enough that the lights of the metropolitan area fade considerably.

“The addition of Antelope Island as Utah’s ninth International Dark Sky Park reinforces the state’s position as the premier stargazing destination not just in the United States, but in the world, ” says Becky Johnson, senior global manager, Utah Office of Tourism, Film & Global Branding. “With exciting new activities and offerings across all nine of our Dark Sky Parks for 2017, we’re expecting to see plenty of visitors jetting in to embrace the night.”