Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area earns International Dark Sky Park recognition

MONTROSE, Colo. — Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area (NCA) has been certified as an International Dark Sky Park by DarkSky International. This significant achievement highlights the NCA’s naturally dark skies, as well as the importance of the night sky as a valued resource worthy of protection. With no artificial light sources, the night skies above the NCA showcase spectacular views of the planets, the Milky Way, and beyond. Immediately adjacent to the NCA, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area are both certified as Dark Sky Parks.

“Most folks visit Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area during the daytime—as there's great fishing, boating, hiking, and trail riding to do then—but for those who remain after dark, a whole different experience presents itself,” said NCA Manager Edd Franz. “Sleeping out under the stars can be one of the most peaceful and meaningful ways to experience this special place. I'm incredibly pleased to have the Gorge certified as a Dark Sky Park, and proud of the BLM's commitment to conserving western Colorado's dark skies.”

In order to earn Dark Sky Park certification, NCA staff, partners, and dedicated volunteers documented the quality of the night skies by taking readings over a period of time at various locations across the Gunnison Gorge NCA. Volunteers also took photographs highlighting the visibility of the Milky Way. A lighting inventory was conducted, confirming that the NCA has zero artificial lights within its boundaries. A light management plan was developed to guide future outreach and education about conserving the dark sky resource. Future threats, although minimal, were addressed in the application. Finally, numerous outreach and education events were conducted—with more planned—to promote the effort toward certification and beyond.

“The BLM plans to incorporate information about light pollution on trailhead kiosks, brochures, webpages, and social media and promote dark sky viewing, astro-tourism, and astrophotography as recreational opportunities available in the NCA,” said NCA Outdoor Recreation Planner Tatyana Sukharnikova. “We will also include a “know before you go” section on the Gunnison Gorge NCA website to aid visitors in planning an outing and promote visitor safety under the dark night skies of Gunnison Gorge NCA.”