11 Superb Spots for Stargazing in Vermont

Vermont, with its rolling hills, picturesque landscapes, and the kaleidoscope of colors during fall, is a place of pure, untainted beauty. But as day transitions into night, the Green Mountain State reveals another awe-inspiring facet – a sky dotted with countless stars, planets, and other cosmic wonders.

Stargazing in Vermont is not just a pastime; it’s a magical experience that brings you closer to the universe’s vast mysteries. Away from the city lights, Vermont’s countryside offers celestial views that captivate both amateur sky-watchers and seasoned astronomers.

If you’re seeking a place where nature’s grandeur spans both day and night, let the stellar and natural allure of stargazing in Vermont be your guide.

In this post, I promote traveling to a destination that is the traditional lands of the Wabanaki (Dawnland Confederacy) and N’dakina (Abenaki / Abénaquis) peoples, among many others. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to explore Native Land.

Table of Contents

Map of Where to Go Stargazing in Vermont

Click to interact with the map.

Big Deer State Park

Nestled in the southern part of the state, Big Deer State Park is a nice little park that offers prime stargazing in Vermont. The park enjoys a remote location, shielded from urban light pollution.

There are plenty of hiking trails, as well as a secluded pond beach about a 2 mile hike from the campground to set up your telescope. It’s a great alternative if you want some solitude. The park is a little quieter and more remote than the nearby Stillwater State Park.

Boulder Beach State Park

Boulder Beach State Park is a good Vermont stargazing alternative for those who live in the northern part of the state. This park has unbeatable views, hikes, and boating – perfect for those who want an outdoor getaway.

Since it’s situated far from major cities, the park’s secluded environment minimizes light pollution and provides a clear view of the sky. Astrophotographers, you’ll have good views of Lake Groton if you want to take photos of the starry sky against the water.

Breezy Hill

Perched atop rolling hills, Breezy Hill is a favorite Vermont stargazing spot among locals for one reason: it’s home to the Stellafane Observatory.

Stellafane is an amazing and historic place. It hosts the Stellafane Convention, which is the longest running astronomical convention in the United States. They host the convention every year and summers just aren’t the same without a trip up Breezy Hill to look at the night sky. Its reputation as a stargazing destination stems from its elevation, which offers a vast expanse of clear skies perfect for stargazing escapades.

Love visiting observatories? Check out the top observatories across the U.S.

Kettle Pond State Park

In the heart of the Northeast Kingdom, Kettle Pond State Park offers an idyllic setting for stargazing enthusiasts. The best spot for stargazing is the beautiful Kettle Pond, but it takes effort over bumpy roads to get there. There’s barely any light pollution as the park is surrounded by forests.

For those who enjoy camping and stargazing, you’ll find great overnight camping options on the remote sites.

Maidstone State Park

Maidstone State Park is the most remote of Vermont’s state parks. Naturally, it boasts dark skies and minimal light pollution due to its remote location. This makes it a prime spot for stargazing in Vermont.

The park’s filled with peaceful nooks – no sounds of highways – but the best spots for watching the star are right on Maidstone Lake.

New Discovery State Park

Nestled in the southern part of Vermont, New Discovery State Park has some of the best campgrounds.

This park is a great Vermont stargazing spot for those who want to get away from the city but not so much – right off the beaten path but close enough to civilization that you can head into town for dinner if you don’t feel like cooking at a site.

Its pristine natural setting minimizes light pollution, allowing you to enjoy stars and planets in all their glory.

Northern Skies Observatory

The Northern Skies Observatory stands as a beacon of Vermont’s commitment to astronomy education. Situated in the picturesque village of Peacham, the observatory offers state-of-the-art telescopes and hosts public observation nights, bringing visitors closer to the wonders of the night sky.

The observatory is run by the Northeast Kingdom Astronomy Foundation and they also have regular monthly star parties and open houses based on the moon and the weather.

Ricker Pond State Park

Also nestled in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, Ricker Pond State Park offers an exceptional stargazing experience. Its remote location shields it from urban light pollution, providing an unobstructed view of the night sky.

There are tons of rail trails in the area to explore and find a suitable stargazing place. Of course, the park’s pond also is an optimal spot for observing stars, planets, and meteor showers.

Seyon Lodge State Park

Seyon Lodge State Park is a stargazer’s haven if you want a more luxurious stay. Isolated from urban lights, its tranquil surroundings foster excellent stargazing conditions.

This park is celebrated for its rustic charm. The lodge and surrounding area is beautiful with a cozy atmosphere, clean rooms, and wonderful food. There’s plenty to do during the day, from hiking and fishing in spring to snowshoeing and cross country skiing in the winter

Spruce Peak

Found in Stowe, Spruce Peak is another great alternative for a fancier stargazing experience or romantic trip . The Lodge is a luxury ski-in/ski-out, four-season mountain resort located at the base of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s tallest peak. Its elevated position in the Green Mountains provides an open panorama of the night sky.

Try to find a nook away from the lodge’s lights. You’ll find several hiking trails in the surroundings you can explore to dine some darkness.

Stillwater State Park

Stillwater State Park sits on the shores of Lake Groton and boasts exceptional skies and atmosphere. Its location far from urban centers minimizes light pollution.

As soon as the night comes, you can hear the loon and watch the star filled skies shimmered like nothing else you’d see outside of the woods. Find a nice spot on the park’s lakeside, lay a blanket, and simply witness the beauty of the cosmos.

Have any questions about these places for stargazing in Vermont, or do you know of other places for this list that you’re willing to share? Let me know in the comments below!