Saddle Mountain Wilderness
Saddle Mountain Wilderness is a protected area in Arizona with a measured darkness of 93/100 (≈ 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 79% of the night sky is clear.
Tonight's outlook: 67/100. The moon is 7% lit and above the horizon 13% of the night; typical August clear-sky odds here are 65%. Updated daily.
Best time to stargaze at Saddle Mountain Wilderness
| Month | Clear night skies | Sky Score (new moon) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 52% | 57/100 |
| February | 60% | 63/100 |
| March | 57% | 61/100 |
| April | 69% | 70/100 |
| May | 72% | 72/100 |
| June ★ | 79% | 78/100 |
| July | 61% | 64/100 |
| August | 65% | 67/100 |
| September | 80% | 78/100 |
| October | 76% | 75/100 |
| November | 72% | 72/100 |
| December | 57% | 61/100 |
Scores assume a moonless night — check the moon before you drive (methodology).
Where to stay near Saddle Mountain Wilderness
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 →
Kaibab Lodge
13.4 km away · darkness at hotel: 93/100
- Check availability →
Phantom Ranch Lodge and Canteen
36 km away · darkness at hotel: 90/100
- Check availability →
Jacob Lake Inn
38.9 km away · darkness at hotel: 88/100
Booking links are affiliate links — disclosure.
Nearby spots in Arizona
- East Rim Viewpoint — 9.3 km · Sky Score 68/100
- Point Imperial — 15.4 km · Sky Score 68/100
- Bison Watching Spot — 15.7 km · Sky Score 68/100
- Vista Encantada — 20.9 km · Sky Score 68/100
- Coconino Overlook — 23.3 km · Sky Score 68/100