Jacob Lake Lookout Tower
Jacob Lake Lookout Tower is a scenic viewpoint in Arizona with a measured darkness of 90/100 (≈ Bortle 2) — among the very darkest measurable skies in the American Southwest — the Milky Way casts visible shadows on moonless nights. The best month to come is typically June, when about 80% of the night sky is clear.
Tonight's outlook: 66/100. The moon is 7% lit and above the horizon 13% of the night; typical August clear-sky odds here are 68%. Updated daily.
Best time to stargaze at Jacob Lake Lookout Tower
| Month | Clear night skies | Sky Score (new moon) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 52% | 56/100 |
| February | 60% | 61/100 |
| March | 57% | 59/100 |
| April | 69% | 67/100 |
| May | 72% | 70/100 |
| June ★ | 80% | 76/100 |
| July | 64% | 64/100 |
| August | 68% | 67/100 |
| September | 81% | 76/100 |
| October | 77% | 73/100 |
| November | 73% | 70/100 |
| December | 57% | 59/100 |
Scores assume a moonless night — check the moon before you drive (methodology).
Where to stay near Jacob Lake Lookout Tower
Each place below is rated for the darkness at its own doorstep — stay dark, and the sky is yours from the parking lot.
- Check availability →
Jacob Lake Inn
1.6 km away · darkness at hotel: 88/100
- Check availability →
Kaibab Lodge
32.5 km away · darkness at hotel: 93/100
- Check availability →
Grand Canyon Motel
39 km away · darkness at hotel: 69/100
Booking links are affiliate links — disclosure.
Nearby spots in Arizona
- Lookout Vermillion Cliffs — 13.5 km · Sky Score 68/100
- Le Fevre Overlook — 15 km · Sky Score 67/100
- Kanab Creek Wilderness — 33.1 km · Sky Score 69/100
- East Rim Viewpoint — 33.5 km · Sky Score 68/100
- Cottenwood Teepees Viewpoint — 33.5 km · Sky Score 67/100