Our Work

Colorado Dark Sky Places

The following Colorado places have formally received IDA recognition as a Dark Sky Place.  IDA Colorado members support existing and prospective dark sky places.

International Dark Sky Parks

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Dinosaur National Monument

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Hovenweep National Monument

Jackson Lake State Park

Mesa Verde National Park

Slumgullion Center

International Dark Sky Communities

Norwood, Colorado

Ridgway, Colorado

Westcliffe/Silver Cliff, Colorado

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, International Dark Sky Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Dinosaur National Monument, International Dark Sky Park
Dinosaur National Monument
Great Sand Dunes National Park, International Dark Sky Park
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Hovenweep National Monument, International Dark Sky Park
Hovenweep National Monument

Jackson Lake State Park

Mesa Verde National Park

Slumgullion Center

Norwood, Colorado
Norwood, Colorado
Westcliffe/Silver Cliff, Colorado
near Ridgway, Colorado, International Dark Sky Community
Ridgway, Colorado

The Advantages of IDA Recognition

  • Publicity to draw guests
  • Conservation of natural resources
  • Community/Park pride

For more information, see the main IDA website. 

darksky.org/places

Requirements for Designation

  • Low skyglow, as measured by Sky Quality Meters
  • Lighting Management Plan
  • Lighting Inventory

For more details on the requirements for each type of designation, see the main IDA website. 

Darksky.org/places
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Join the International Dark-sky Association

IDA members with a Colorado mailing address are automatically part of the Colorado chapter. 

Colorado chapter members get a monthly newsletter and other benefits.