Dark Sky Events & Programs
Utah State Parks have some of the darkest night skies in North America. An ever-increasing number of our visitors appreciate and seek out the pristine night skies and after-dark programming we offer. Our parks employees want to responsibly manage and enhance this resource.
To keep you all engaged, check out the dark sky programs below!
State Parks Dark Sky Activities & Events
Weather and/or COVID-19 restrictions can affect planned events. Please check with the state park directly for more information.
Steinaker State Park
Scorpion Night Hike and Dark Sky Event!
Did you know that Steinaker State Park is home to the Northern Scorpion? These creatures are an integral element of the park’s nocturnal ecosystem.
Also, did you know that Steinaker is certified as an International Dark Sky Park? This means that Steinaker is working to preserve and protect our exceptional views of the starry night sky!
At this event, we will learn about the importance of dark skies and light pollution’s impact on humans and the environment. After this dark sky presentation, we will learn about the elusive scorpion that most people usually fear or dislike. We will take you on a search for scorpions using UV flashlights! Scorpions fluoresce under UV light due to a protein in their exoskeleton. There is nothing quite like seeing the bright green glow of your first scorpion find!
We will meet at the Beach Pavilion. Bring a UV light if you have one. Some UV lights will be provided. Dress for light hiking. Closed-toed shoes recommended. Utah State Parks recommends masks for this event and attendees should practice social distancing with those not in your household group.
Day-use fee applies. Call the Park Office for more information, 435-789-4432.
Event Dates:
Monday, June 7, 2021 – 9:00 PM
Friday, June 18, 2021 – 9:00 PM
Saturday, June 26th, 2021 – 9:00 PM