Astronomy Festival

Black Canyon Regional AstroFest, September 19-20, 2025

Dark skies are beautiful and scientifically valuable. Humans have been contemplating their meaning for centuries. The National Park Service and its partner organizations invite you to discover the night sky through a series of astronomy programs. Every year, AstroFest provides the opportunity for visitors to experience this threatened resource, and learn about how important it is to protect. Come celebrate with us!

Plan Ahead

• Protect participants' night vision by only using flashlights with red lenses, NOT white lights.
• Dress warmly and prepare for the evening's weather conditions.
• Bring food and water, and bring a comfortable campchair, if desired.
• All events are free, but park entrance fees still apply at Black Canyon.
• There is limited cell service at Black Canyon event sites; plan accordingly.

2025 Schedule of Events

Friday, September 19

Drop-in Solar Telescope Viewing, 2:00–4:00 pm
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, South Rim Visitor Center

Evening Ranger Program, 7:00–8:00 pm
Montrose Public Safety Complex Community Room
434 South First Street, Montrose, CO

Saturday, September 20

Junior Ranger Activities, 6:00–7:00 pm
Evening Ranger Program, 7:00–8:00 pm
Telescope Viewing, 8:30–10:00 pm
Curecanti National Recreation Area, Elk Creek Campground Amphitheater

If you wish to camp overnight at Elk Creek Campground during Curecanti's AstroFest events, campsites are available by reservation only at Recreation.gov.

All events are subject to change or cancellation due to weather. Location changes or cancellations will be listed in the Alerts section of this website, and posted to the Black Canyon or Curecanti Facebook pages.

Partnerships and Support

Through the years, AstroFest has been made possible through our partnerships with, and support from, these agencies and organizations. Visit their websites to learn more:

• Western National Parks Association
• Bureau of Land Management/Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area
• Black Canyon Astronomical Society
• Gunnison Valley Observatory
• DarkSky International
• Colorado Canyons Association

Learn more about protecting dark night skies in national parks and at home!