Stargaze at Mossy Cave Trail
ScenicEasySpringSummerFall
Witness the Milky Way arching over Bryce Canyon's hoodoos in one of the world’s darkest International Dark Sky Parks.
Itinerary tips
- 1Bring a red-light headlamp to preserve your night vision and navigate the uneven trail safely.
- 2Plan for a 1.5-hour experience to account for the 0.8-mile round trip and time for your eyes to adjust to the darkness.
- 3Arrive at the small parking lot along Highway 12 at least 30 minutes before total darkness as spots are limited.
- 4Carry a lightweight camp chair or blanket to sit comfortably while viewing the hoodoos against the starscape.
- 5Pack extra layers even in summer, as temperatures at Bryce Canyon’s high elevation drop significantly once the sun sets.
- 6Download an offline star map or astronomy app beforehand since cellular service is nonexistent in the canyon.
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