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City Cast Boise

it’s still the most geographically isolated major U.S. city

, and that means we’re surrounded by places with incredible opportunities to behold the night sky.

To feel like a speck of dust (but in a good way), the 

 in the Sawtooths, about two hours from Boise

, is the place to be. It’s the only Dark Sky Reserve in the U.S. as designated by the 

The two next-darkest skies in Idaho can be found at the 

, is available for public use and was designated as a dark sky park last month.

Even nearer by, try the backroads (pack it in, pack it out, etc.) in the 

Galactic Center of the Milky Way is best seen

 between March and September, with the peak in July and August. A bright moon can also limit visibility — luckily for us, 

, so it won’t put off any distracting light. You’ll have the best luck between midnight and 5 a.m.

 Remember to use binoculars if you’re trying to identify planets or specific stars. And even if you’re not on official wilderness land, respectful outdoor etiquette still applies.

As much as Boise is growing, it’s still the most geographically isolated major U.S. city, and that means we’re surrounded by places with incredible opportunities to behold the night sky and Milky Way galaxy.

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The Best Stargazing Around Boise

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The Best Stargazing Around Boise