Arches Self-Guided Stargazing Audio Experience — Night Sky at Panorama Point
Lie back at Panorama Point and let a narrated audio guide teach you the Big Dipper, perception tricks, and how to find the Milky Way—without a guide. A private, one-hour experience ideal for couples who want a low-impact night under some of the darkest skies in the continental U.S.
The Experience
Before You Go
Download before you go
Cell service in Arches is unreliable—download the audio file and any maps to your phone before entering the park.
Bring warm layers
Even summer nights can be cold; pack an insulated jacket and a blanket to stay comfortable during the hour-long experience.
Protect the ground
Avoid walking on cryptobiotic soil and use established pullouts like Panorama Point to minimize impact on fragile desert surfaces.
Use red light only
If you need a light, use a red-filtered headlamp to preserve night vision and avoid disturbing other visitors and wildlife.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Panorama Point—wide horizon and low impact parking
- •Balanced Rock viewpoint for star silhouettes against distinctive sandstone
Wildlife
- •Mule deer
- •Nocturnal bats
Conservation Note
Minimize light pollution by using red lights, stay on durable surfaces to protect cryptobiotic soil, and pack out all trash—dark-sky etiquette preserves the experience for all.
Arches became a national park in 1971; its low-elevation basins and sparse settlement have preserved exceptional night skies for generations.
Photographer's Notes
- • Panorama Point horizon
- • Balanced Rock silhouette area
- • Scenic Drive pullouts with La Sal Mountain backdrop
What to Bring
Smartphone with downloaded audioEssential
The experience plays from your device—download ahead to avoid relying on cell service.
Warm layers and blanketEssential
Desert temperatures fall fast after sunset; a warm jacket and blanket keep you comfortable.
Red-filtered headlamp or flashlightEssential
Preserves your night vision and is considerate to others while moving at night.
Insulated ground pad or low camp chair
Keeps you off cold ground and more comfortable during the listening session.
Common Questions
Do I need to join a scheduled tour?
No—the audio experience is self-guided; you'll receive a link to stream or download and can do it at your own time and place in the park.
Where in Arches should I set up?
Choose safe, legal pullouts with a clear horizon like Panorama Point or Balanced Rock parking areas; avoid fragile soils and closed areas.
Is this suitable for children?
Yes—recommended for ages 8 and up, but children should be supervised and kept warm and quiet so others can enjoy the dark.
What about park entry fees and hours?
Arches has an entrance fee and is open 24 hours; check National Park Service updates and pay fees at the entrance station or online.
Will the audio work without cell signal?
You should download the audio in advance; streaming may fail in areas without reliable cell service.
Are pets allowed during the experience?
Service animals are allowed; other pets are subject to park rules and may be restricted after dark—check current park regulations.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1–1.5 hours
Location
Moab, Utah
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal physical exertion; able to walk short uneven terrain and sit/lie on the ground
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