Lets countdown the 20 best small towns in the Southwest for an unforgettable night under the stars.
Alpines elevation and remote location mean minimal light pollution, allowing the cosmos to shine in all its glory.
Dont miss the chance to attend a star party at the McDonald Observatory, just a short drive away.
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Where is Alpine, Texas?
The town sits at an elevation of 4,475 feet, surrounded by the picturesque Davis Mountains.
Its remote location, far from major urban centers, contributes to its exceptional dark skies.
Escalantes blend of rugged beauty and cosmic spectacle makes it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and stargazers.
Where is Escalante, Utah?
Located along Utahs Scenic Byway 12, Escalante is roughly halfway between Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Parks.
This remote town sits in Garfield County, surrounded by vast stretches of protected wilderness.
The nearest major city is Salt Lake City, approximately 275 miles to the north.
During the day, explore the Gila Cliff Dwellings or stroll through eclectic galleries.
Where is Silver City, New Mexico?
Silver City is located in southwestern New Mexico, near the base of the Gila National Forest.
The town lies approximately 150 miles northwest of Las Cruces and is accessible via U.S. Route 180.
Its location at 6,000 feet elevation contributes to cooler temperatures and clear night skies.
The surrounding mountains and forests provide a natural barrier against light pollution, enhancing the stargazing experience.
Where is Torrey, Utah?
Situated along Utahs Highway 24, Torrey is located about 11 miles west of Capitol Reef National Park.
Its remote location and small population contribute to its pristine night skies.
Visitors can access Torrey by car, enjoying scenic drives through some of Utahs most stunning landscapes.
The combination of accessibility and seclusion makes Torrey a perfect destination for those seeking solace under the stars.
Known for its old railroad buildings and art installations, it offers a quirky charm thats hard to resist.
The town sits near the Valley of Fires Recreation Area, where ancient lava flows create a unique landscape.
For those captivated by Carrizozos charm, 3-4 bedroom homes are affordably priced between $150,000 and $250,000.
Where is Carrizozo, New Mexico?
The town lies approximately 50 miles northeast of Alamogordo and 150 miles southeast of Albuquerque.
Its central location makes it accessible yet removed enough to enjoy unspoiled night skies.
The surrounding Sacramento Mountains and open desert plains contribute to the areas natural beauty and secluded atmosphere.
Visitors can reach Carrizozo by car, making it a convenient stop on a Southwestern road trip.
The towns elevation at around 5,000 feet provides cooler temperatures and clear air, enhancing the celestial viewing experience.
With wide-open spaces and minimal light interference, the stars here seem almost within reach.
Those seeking a luxurious retreat can find 3-4 bedroom homes priced between $400,000 and $500,000.
Where is Sonoita, Arizona?
Sonoita is located in southeastern Arizona, at the intersection of State Routes 82 and 83.
Its scenic drives and rural setting make it a peaceful retreat from urban life.
Visitors can reach Sonoita by car, with the journey offering panoramic views of southern Arizonas landscapes.
The areas open horizons and high elevation contribute to its remarkable stargazing conditions.
As night falls, the towns location away from major cities allows the sky to come alive with stars.
Community events often include star parties and astronomical gatherings, reflecting the towns appreciation for the night sky.
Madrids vibrant community offers 3-4 bedroom homes typically ranging from $300,000 to $400,000.
Where is Madrid, New Mexico?
Accessible by car, the drive to Madrid offers stunning views of the surrounding high desert terrain.
With its quaint downtown and historic Gage Hotel, Marathon exudes southwestern charm.
The towns remote location and absence of light pollution make it an exceptional place for stargazing.
Visitors can enjoy desert hikes by day and marvel at the glittering stars by night.
Prospective homeowners can find 3-4 bedroom houses in Marathon priced between $200,000 and $300,000.
Where is Marathon, Texas?
The town sits at an elevation of 4,040 feet, surrounded by the Chihuahuan Desert and distant mountain ranges.
Surrounded by stark desert landscapes and near Goblin Valley State Park, its a destination for adventurous spirits.
By day, explore Mars-like terrains that have attracted researchers and filmmakers alike.
Hanksvilles unique blend of otherworldly landscapes and celestial views makes it an unforgettable destination for stargazers.
Those enchanted by Hanksvilles remote beauty can expect 3-4 bedroom homes to range from $200,000 to $300,000.
Where is Hanksville, Utah?
Hanksville is located at the junction of State Routes 24 and 95, approximately 150 miles south of Moab.
Its remote setting is accessible by car, with scenic drives through some of Utahs most striking desert landscapes.
Its extreme remoteness makes it one of the darkest places in the continental United States.
The vast open plains and absence of city lights create a perfect canvas for the night sky.
Stargazers can expect unparalleled views of constellations, planets, and meteor showers.
During the day, the rugged landscapes are ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.
Animas offers a true escape for those seeking solitude and an intimate connection with the cosmos.
Homebuyers can enjoy this peaceful retreat with 3-4 bedroom homes priced between $150,000 and $250,000.
Where is Animas, New Mexico?
Animas is situated in Hidalgo County, near the borders of Arizona and Mexico.
Its approximately 35 miles south of Interstate 10, accessible via State Road 338.
The nearest larger town is Lordsburg, about 60 miles to the north.
While the park is famous for its towering cliffs and rugged canyons, it also provides incredible stargazing opportunities.
Where is Springdale, Utah?
Located at the southwestern entrance of Zion National Park, Springdale sits along State Route 9.
The town is approximately 160 miles northeast of Las Vegas and 300 miles south of Salt Lake City.
Accessible by car, it serves as a convenient base for exploring Zion and the surrounding region.
Nestled in the rolling hills of southern Arizona, its a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.
Visitors can enjoy peaceful evenings under a canopy of stars, often accompanied by the sounds of wildlife.
Where is Patagonia, Arizona?
The town is nestled between the Santa Rita and Patagonia Mountains, offering scenic drives and abundant outdoor activities.
Accessible by car, Patagonias rural setting contributes to its dark skies and quiet atmosphere.
With its historic buildings and murals, it exudes a unique charm that attracts visitors.
At night, the desert sky above Chloride comes alive with stars due to the towns low light pollution.
The surrounding mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for both sunset and nighttime sky watching.
Exploring the towns history by day and the cosmos by night makes for an engaging and enlightening experience.
Where is Chloride, Arizona?
The town is nestled in the foothills of the Cerbat Mountains in northwestern Arizona.
Accessible by a well-maintained paved road, Chloride offers a convenient yet peaceful destination for travelers.
The remnants of its past blend with art installations and unique accommodations, creating an unconventional atmosphere.
The towns remote location means that at night, the sky is filled with an awe-inspiring display of stars.
Visitors can dine at the famous Starlight Theatre Restaurant while enjoying live music and breathtaking night skies.
Terlinguas combination of history, culture, and celestial beauty makes it a standout spot for stargazing adventurers.
For those drawn to its rugged charm, 3-4 bedroom homes typically cost between $200,000 and $300,000.
Where is Terlingua, Texas?
Terlingua is located in the southwestern part of Texas, near the Rio Grande and the Mexican border.
Its remote desert location is roughly 80 miles south of Alpine and 230 miles southeast of El Paso.
The expansive Chihuahuan Desert surrounds Terlingua, providing unobstructed views of the horizon and night sky.
Known for its mild climate and stunning natural surroundings, its a gateway to outdoor recreation and astronomical observation.
The towns high elevation and clear skies make it an excellent spot for stargazing.
Visitors can explore hiking trails during the day and participate in organized stargazing events at night.
Where is Oracle, Arizona?
Oracle is located about 35 miles north of Tucson, accessible via State Route 77.
The town sits at an elevation of approximately 4,500 feet, providing cooler temperatures than the surrounding desert areas.
Oracles proximity to Tucson makes it easily reachable while still offering a retreat from city lights.
When night falls, the clear desert sky provides a spectacular view of the stars.
Where is Bluff, Utah?
The town is nestled between sandstone formations and the San Juan River, providing a dramatic and picturesque setting.
Accessible by car, Bluff offers a quiet escape with easy access to the Four Corners region.
Its remote location and natural barriers against light pollution make it an ideal spot for unobstructed stargazing.
At night, the areas seclusion and arid climate result in clear skies filled with stars.
Kanab offers guided night sky tours and photography workshops for those looking to capture the beauty of the cosmos.
The blend of natural splendor and cinematic history makes Kanab a unique destination for stargazing.
For those considering making Kanab home, 3-4 bedroom houses generally fall between $400,000 and $500,000.
Where is Kanab, Utah?
The town lies approximately 80 miles east of St. George and 200 miles north of Las Vegas.
Its strategic location provides easy access to several national parks and monuments.
The surrounding canyons and plateaus help shield Kanab from light pollution, enhancing the quality of the night skies.
Travelers can reach Kanab by car, making it a convenient yet rewarding stop on a Southwestern journey.
Enveloped by the immense Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the town offers unobstructed views of the cosmos.
Art installations like the famous metal sculptures of prehistoric creatures add a surreal touch to the landscape.
Stargazing events and astronomy programs are common, inviting visitors to explore the universe above.
The unique combination of desert solitude and celestial wonders makes Borrego Springs a standout location for night sky enthusiasts.
Buyers can expect to find 3-4 bedroom homes here priced between $300,000 and $400,000.
Where is Borrego Springs, California?
Located in San Diego County, Borrego Springs is accessible via State Routes 78 and 79.
The town is approximately 90 miles northeast of San Diego and 75 miles south of Palm Springs.
The remote location and community efforts to limit light pollution contribute to the exceptional stargazing conditions.
Visitors can reach Borrego Springs by car, enjoying scenic drives through the desert landscape.
Situated in the Davis Mountains, it boasts some of the darkest skies in North America.
During the day, visitors can explore the historic fort and enjoy the rugged beauty of the mountains.
At night, the observatory offers star parties and viewing programs that provide an up-close look at celestial objects.
Where is Fort Davis, Texas?
The town sits at an elevation of 4,900 feet, making it one of the highest towns in Texas.
Accessible by car, Fort Davis is part of the scenic loop through the Davis Mountains.
Beyond this local phenomenon, Marfa offers spectacular stargazing opportunities under the expansive Texas sky.
The town attracts artists, musicians, and travelers seeking inspiration from its unique blend of culture and nature.
Marfas allure lies in its ability to blend the extraordinary with the everyday.
For those inspired to stay, 3-4 bedroom homes in Marfa generally cost between $400,000 and $500,000.
Where is Marfa, Texas?
Marfa is situated in the high desert of the Trans-Pecos region in West Texas along U.S. Route 67.
The town is approximately 200 miles southeast of El Paso and 60 miles west of Alpine.
Its remote location and elevation of 4,688 feet contribute to its clear skies and minimal light pollution.
Visitors can reach Marfa by car or via the nearest airport in Midland, about a three-hour drive away.
