Boulder Astronomy Tour

Highlights

Description

As the sun sets over the Front Range, the foothills fade to silhouette and the first stars appear above Boulder’s dark-sky landscape. Your evening begins at an easy-access trailhead just ten minutes from downtown, where your astronomy guide sets up large telescopes and cozy seating for a relaxed night under the stars.

Over the next two hours, you’ll learn to read the heavens like a local sky watcher. Using a bright green laser, your guide traces constellations and planets while weaving in stories, folklore, and modern insights. Depending on the season, you might spot Jupiter’s moons, Saturn’s rings, or far-off nebulae glowing softly against the black. Between turns at the eyepiece, enjoy the quiet atmosphere, gentle explanations, and conversation that makes astronomy approachable for everyone.

Comfort is built into the experience—chairs, blankets, red flashlights, even hand warmers on chilly nights. Guests of all ages can participate, and accessible telescope setups allow everyone, including wheelchair users or small children, a perfect view. The program ends with time for open Q&A and a last lingering look at the Milky Way.

Whether you come with family, friends, or a partner, this is Boulder at its most magical: mountain air, open space, and an entire universe overhead waiting to be explored.

Itinerary

6:45 PM — Arrive & check-in at trailhead parking lotn7:00 PM — Sunset introduction & orientationn7:15 PM — Twilight telescope preview (Moon/planets)n7:30 PM — Laser-guided constellation talkn8:15 PM — Deep-sky telescope viewingn8:55 PM — Q&A and wrap-up under the starsn9:00 PM — Depart at leisure

Price & Availability

Adults $45 • Children $22 (11 and under). Group sizes ≤ 7 guests. Offered most clear nights year-round. Free reschedule/refund for weather cancellations.

Food & Drink

Light snacks and bottled water provided.

Instructions

Arrive 15 min early at Boulder Valley Ranch Trailhead. Free on-site parking. Check email confirmation for GPS pin and weather updates.

Restrictions

Runs only on clear nights. Minimum age 5 suggested; under 18 must attend with adult. Accessible site; no hiking required.

Transportation

Transportation not included. Guests drive to Boulder Valley Ranch Trailhead (10 min from downtown).