Happy Canyon Overlook
Happy Canyon Overlook is a scenic viewpoint 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 78% of the night sky is clear.
Tonight's outlook: 70/100. The moon is 7% lit and above the horizon 13% of the night; typical August clear-sky odds here are 69%. Updated daily.
Best time to stargaze at Happy Canyon Overlook
| Month | Clear night skies | Sky Score (new moon) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 51% | 57/100 |
| February | 58% | 62/100 |
| March | 57% | 61/100 |
| April | 63% | 66/100 |
| May | 66% | 67/100 |
| June | 74% | 73/100 |
| July | 64% | 67/100 |
| August | 69% | 70/100 |
| September ★ | 78% | 77/100 |
| October | 72% | 72/100 |
| November | 69% | 70/100 |
| December | 57% | 61/100 |
Scores assume a moonless night — check the moon before you drive (methodology).
Where to stay near Happy Canyon Overlook
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 →
Whispering Sands
38.8 km away · darkness at hotel: 76/100
Booking links are affiliate links — disclosure.
Nearby spots in Utah
- North Mesa Overlook — 5.3 km · Sky Score 67/100
- Dirty Devil Overlook — 8.5 km · Sky Score 68/100
- French Spring-Happy Canyon Wilderness Study Area — 9.8 km · Sky Score 68/100
- Burr Point Overlook — 10.2 km · Sky Score 67/100
- Oil Well Point — 14.9 km · Sky Score 67/100