Bandelier National Monument
Sky Score 51/100≈ Bortle 3
Bandelier National Monument is a protected area in New Mexico with a measured darkness of 70/100 (≈ Bortle 3) — a good rural sky: the Milky Way is clearly visible, with some glow on the horizon toward nearby towns. The best month to come is typically September, when about 74% of the night sky is clear.
Tonight's outlook: 46/100. The moon is 7% lit and above the horizon 13% of the night; typical August clear-sky odds here are 57%. Updated daily.
Best time to stargaze at Bandelier National Monument
| Month | Clear night skies | Sky Score (new moon) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 58% | 46/100 |
| February | 64% | 50/100 |
| March | 62% | 49/100 |
| April | 69% | 53/100 |
| May | 70% | 53/100 |
| June | 66% | 51/100 |
| July | 56% | 45/100 |
| August | 57% | 46/100 |
| September ★ | 74% | 55/100 |
| October | 72% | 54/100 |
| November | 71% | 54/100 |
| December | 64% | 50/100 |
Scores assume a moonless night — check the moon before you drive (methodology).
Where to stay near Bandelier National Monument
No lodging within 80 km — this is true wilderness. Plan to camp, or base yourself in the nearest gateway town and drive out for the night.
Nearby spots in New Mexico
- Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument — 16.7 km · Sky Score 57/100
- Jemez National Recreation Area — 27.4 km · Sky Score 63/100
- Jemez Canyon Overlook — 28.1 km · Sky Score 63/100
- Fenton Lake State Park — 37.7 km · Sky Score 63/100
- Cerrillos Hills State Park — 41.2 km · Sky Score 55/100