Since we were in Canada in July, we had to wait until after 2 AM for complete darkness. Although the weather forecast was showing clouds and the moon was bright, we ventured out anyway in hopes of seeing something. We got in our rental car and drove to a small parking area by the lake. We were the only car in the parking lot and despite a few reservations, we decided to pull out our flashlights and venture onto the trail toward a dock area on the lake. We pulled out our quick dry towels and sat on the dock and pointed out constellations to one another while listening to and watching bats fly above our heads. We were able to see a few shooting stars and a few constellations, but unfortunately the clouds and moonlight restricted our view of the milky way. Regardless, we enjoyed our night stargazing and want to encourage you to spend at least one night laying outside looking up at the sky and appreciating the galaxy.

 

Clouds Above Pyramid Lake.

Finding the Stars Behind the Clouds.

Really Peaceful Evening.

Things to consider before you go: 

• • • • Check the moon cycle of the day that you are planning to stargaze 
      • Plan on staying up late if you are visiting in the summer as sunset does not occur until after 10-11 PM
      • Scope out where you will be stargazing in the daylight so that it is not as scary going at night 
      • Bring a flashlight and/or headlamp to help navigate 
      • Use the buddy system and never go out at night alone 
      • Be on the lookout for bears.  When it gets cold at night, they travel down to the valleys where it is a little warmer.