Black Rock Desert-High Rock Canyon Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area
Black Rock Desert-High Rock Canyon Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area is a protected area in Nevada 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 July, when about 83% of the night sky is clear.
Tonight's outlook: 77/100. The moon is 7% lit and above the horizon 8% of the night; typical August clear-sky odds here are 79%. Updated daily.
Best time to stargaze at Black Rock Desert-High Rock Canyon Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area
| Month | Clear night skies | Sky Score (new moon) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 33% | 43/100 |
| February | 48% | 55/100 |
| March | 47% | 53/100 |
| April | 57% | 61/100 |
| May | 60% | 63/100 |
| June | 71% | 71/100 |
| July ★ | 83% | 80/100 |
| August | 79% | 78/100 |
| September | 78% | 77/100 |
| October | 72% | 72/100 |
| November | 54% | 59/100 |
| December | 37% | 46/100 |
Scores assume a moonless night — check the moon before you drive (methodology).
Where to stay near Black Rock Desert-High Rock Canyon Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area
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 →
Bruno's Motel
59.2 km away · Gerlach · darkness at hotel: 84/100
- Check availability →
The Oasis
59.5 km away · Gerlach · darkness at hotel: 84/100
Booking links are affiliate links — disclosure.
Nearby spots in Nevada
- Pahute Peak Wilderness — 7.5 km · Sky Score 63/100
- High Rock Lake Wilderness — 16.1 km · Sky Score 63/100
- Calico Mountains Wilderness — 17.7 km · Sky Score 64/100
- Black Rock Desert Wilderness — 27.1 km · Sky Score 64/100
- Little High Rock Canyon Wilderness — 31.3 km · Sky Score 62/100