Rifle.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Rifle, CO. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Rifle
- Top Community Pick: local vantage points (~N/A miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4.0 at Piceance Basin Rd 76
- Local Experts: Western Colorado Astronomy Club
- Verified Observations: 0 distinct spots
Stargazing in Rifle is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. While enthusiasts often gather at local vantage points for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Piceance Basin Rd 76 provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 4.0. The local landscape of Rifle offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Rifle
For the best results in Rifle, aim for a ‘New Moon’ window. In these dark-sky conditions, the absence of moonlight allows the Milky Way to cast visible shadows.
Expert Tips for Rifle Observers
Before heading out to local vantage points, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. For the best views here, try to observe targets when they are highest in the sky to minimize atmospheric interference. Local enthusiasts often frequent this spot, making it a great place to meet experienced observers. Regardless of your gear, allow 30 minutes for your eyes to fully dark-adapt.
Colorado Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
Piceance Basin Rd 76
Picenance Basin
"First collectino at this site. Adjacent to direct glare sources near gas compressor plant. Low clouds along southern and western horizon. Dark at Zenith and to north and north east."
Magnolia North
Piceance Basin
"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Magnolia North in Piceance Basin on 3/29/2017. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 21.59 SQM."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Town of Paonia, Colorado
The Town of Paonia is a small, rural community on Colorado’s Western Slope in eastern Delta County, with a population of nearly 1,500 residents.
Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area
Discover Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area, a 63,000-acre wilderness in Colorado. Known for its dark skies, outdoor recreation, and stunning landscapes, this area offers unique stargazing and camping experiences.
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.