Stars Over the Gila Events

A bright comet with a glowing tail streaks across the night sky beside the hazy band of the Milky Way, both set against a field of countless stars.

Copyright Jonah Snead

Stars Over the Gila will return in September 2026! Join park rangers for an unforgettable evening under some of the darkest skies in New Mexico. Each program includes a ranger-led talk about the wonders of the night sky followed by telescope viewing of planets, star clusters, and the glowing band of the Milky Way.

In the event of cloudy skies or rain, the program will move indoors with an engaging presentation exploring the science of the cosmos.

Program Schedule- Every Thrusday- Sunday

September 24th- 27th: 9pm - 10pm
October 1st- October 31st: 8:30pm - 9:30pm
November 1st- November 30th: 7:00pm - 8:00pm
December 1st - December 12th: 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Know Before You Go

• Meet at the Visitor Center parking lot

• Bring a chair or blanket for comfortable stargazing.

• For our fall/early winter programs the Gila can get cold—be sure to bring a warm jacket or blanket.

• A red headlamp or red flashlight is recommended to protect night vision.

• Pets are not permitted—telescopes and leashes do not mix.

Come discover the beauty of the wilderness above—the stars, planets, and galaxies that shine over the Gila.