Capitol Reef National Park

Sky Score 67/100≈ Bortle 2

8 places to stay nearby, rated for darkness ↓

Capitol Reef National Park is a protected area in Utah with a measured darkness of 93/100 (≈ Bortle 2), among the very darkest measurable skies we have rated: the Milky Way casts visible shadows on moonless nights. The best month to come is typically September, when about 79% of the night sky is clear.

Tonight's outlook: 34/100. The moon is 98% lit and above the horizon 96% of the night; typical September clear-sky odds here are 79%. Updated daily.

Best time to stargaze at Capitol Reef National Park

MonthClear night skiesSky Score (new moon)
January53%58/100
February58%62/100
March57%61/100
April66%67/100
May68%69/100
June75%74/100
July64%66/100
August67%69/100
September ★79%77/100
October73%73/100
November71%71/100
December57%61/100

Scores assume a moonless night, check the moon before you drive (methodology).

Where to stay near Capitol Reef National Park: sleep under a dark sky

We measured the night sky over each stay below, not just over the spot: the darkness score is computed at the hotel's own location, so you know what you'll see from the door. Sorted darkest sky first, with the distance to Capitol Reef National Park for each.

Cathedral Valley Inn#1Darkest sky of these stays

Cathedral Valley Inn

8.4Very well rated(508 reviews)

Cathedral Valley Inn offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and Smart TVs, a seasonal outdoor pool, hot tub, and complimentary continental breakfast, all surrounded by Utah's stunning desert landscape. The unique bentonite hills right behind the inn are perfect for walks and stargazing, while Capitol Reef National Park's world-class hiking and scenic drives are just a short drive away.

Sky darkness
93/100
To the spot
31.8 km
Location
Caineville
Check availability →

91/100sky darkness at this stay

#3

Annie's Place Bed & Breakfast

Sky darkness
91/100
To the spot
31.6 km
Location
Boulder
Check availability →

More stays nearby

Booking links are affiliate links, see the disclosure.

Live prices around Boulder

Boulder is the closest base to Capitol Reef National Park with rooms to book. The map shows everything available there right now, including the hotels, apartments and cabins we do not rate. Use the stays above when darkness decides, use the map when price or availability does.

Prices and availability come from the booking partners shown on the map, and we earn a commission on bookings made through it. Sky darkness is measured only for the stays listed above.

Nearby spots in Utah

Sky data: NASA Black Marble VJ146A4 2025 annual composite · clear-sky climatology ERA5 2015–2024 (methodology).