Steep Creek Wilderness Study Area

Sky Score 67/100≈ Bortle 2

Steep Creek Wilderness Study Area 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 79% of the night sky is clear.

Tonight's outlook: 68/100. The moon is 7% lit and above the horizon 13% of the night; typical August clear-sky odds here are 67%. Updated daily.

Best time to stargaze at Steep Creek Wilderness Study Area

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 Steep Creek Wilderness Study Area

Each place below is rated for the darkness at its own doorstep — stay dark, and the sky is yours from the parking lot.

Booking links are affiliate links — disclosure.

Nearby spots in Utah