Chimney Rock Viewpoint
Chimney Rock Viewpoint is a scenic viewpoint in New Mexico with a measured darkness of 91/100 (≈ 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 September, when about 74% of the night sky is clear.
Tonight's outlook: 61/100. The moon is 7% lit and above the horizon 13% of the night; typical August clear-sky odds here are 59%. Updated daily.
Best time to stargaze at Chimney Rock Viewpoint
| Month | Clear night skies | Sky Score (new moon) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 53% | 57/100 |
| February | 61% | 63/100 |
| March | 60% | 62/100 |
| April | 66% | 66/100 |
| May | 67% | 67/100 |
| June | 67% | 67/100 |
| July | 56% | 59/100 |
| August | 59% | 61/100 |
| September ★ | 74% | 72/100 |
| October | 71% | 70/100 |
| November | 69% | 68/100 |
| December | 59% | 61/100 |
Scores assume a moonless night, check the moon before you drive (methodology).
Where to stay near Chimney Rock Viewpoint
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 →
Abiquiu Inn
21.2 km away · Abiquiu · darkness at hotel: 78/100
- Check availability →
Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa
38.7 km away · Ojo Caliente · darkness at hotel: 81/100
- Check availability →
The Inn & Mercantile at Ojo
39.3 km away · darkness at hotel: 81/100
Booking links are affiliate links, see the disclosure.
Nearby spots in New Mexico
- Chama River Canyon Wilderness 15.9 km · Sky Score 65/100
- Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area 28.7 km · Sky Score 66/100
- El Vado Lake State Park 39.2 km · Sky Score 64/100
- Heron Lake State Park 43.1 km · Sky Score 64/100
- Jemez Canyon Overlook 54.9 km · Sky Score 63/100