Grand Gulch Instant Study Area Complex
Grand Gulch Instant Study Area Complex is a protected area in Utah 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 September, when about 77% 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 Grand Gulch Instant Study Area Complex
| Month | Clear night skies | Sky Score (new moon) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 53% | 58/100 |
| February | 60% | 63/100 |
| March | 58% | 62/100 |
| April | 66% | 67/100 |
| May | 69% | 70/100 |
| June | 76% | 75/100 |
| July | 62% | 64/100 |
| August | 65% | 67/100 |
| September ★ | 77% | 76/100 |
| October | 72% | 72/100 |
| November | 71% | 71/100 |
| December | 56% | 61/100 |
Scores assume a moonless night, check the moon before you drive (methodology).
Where to stay near Grand Gulch Instant Study Area Complex
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 →
Valley of the Gods Bed and Breakfast
18.1 km away · Mexican Hat · darkness at hotel: 92/100
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San Juan Inn
31.5 km away · darkness at hotel: 88/100
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Hat Rock Inn
32.2 km away · Mexican Hat · darkness at hotel: 80/100
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Canyonlands Motel
32.2 km away · darkness at hotel: 80/100
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Mexican Hat Lodge
32.3 km away · darkness at hotel: 80/100
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Nearby spots in Utah
- Muley Point Overlook 16.9 km · Sky Score 67/100
- Natural Bridges National Monument 24.2 km · Sky Score 67/100
- Cheesebox Canyon Wilderness Study Area 33 km · Sky Score 68/100
- Mancos Mesa Wilderness Study Area 36.6 km · Sky Score 69/100
- Bears Ears National Monument 40.7 km · Sky Score 63/100