Bears Ears National Monument

Sky Score 63/100≈ Bortle 2

Bears Ears National Monument is a protected area in Utah with a measured darkness of 89/100 (≈ 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 75% of the night sky is clear.

Tonight's outlook: 63/100. The moon is 7% lit and above the horizon 13% of the night; typical August clear-sky odds here are 64%. Updated daily.

Best time to stargaze at Bears Ears National Monument

MonthClear night skiesSky Score (new moon)
January53%55/100
February59%60/100
March56%57/100
April64%63/100
May66%65/100
June73%70/100
July60%60/100
August64%63/100
September75%71/100
October71%68/100
November69%67/100
December56%58/100

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

Where to stay near Bears Ears 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 Utah