Dark Sky

Northern Lights over Wind Cave National Park

Peelee Clark

Saving The Stars

A dark, starry night is becoming increasingly more difficult to find. National parks are often refuges for darkness but still remain susceptible to light pollution. The increased and widespread use of artificial light at night not only impairs our view of the universe, but it can adversely affect human health, disrupt wildlife and the environment, contribute to climate change, and waste money and energy.

Wind Cave National Park is in the process of becoming an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association (IDA). The park’s commitment to this distinction includes retrofitting outdoor lighting, educating the public, and working with local communities to reduce light pollution giving visitors the best opportunities to enjoy the natural night skies.

During the summer months, rangers offer free dark sky programs. Some of these programs offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about light pollution, Lakota Star Knowledge, Full Moon Hikes, and view the night sky at Wind Cave with a telescope. You can become a Junior Ranger Night Explorer by completing the booklet and having a ranger sign it at the program.

We can all help reverse this environmental problem of light pollution. You can minimize light at night from your own home and while you travel. Use low-level, warmer lighting only when and where it’s needed, and properly shield light fixtures to direct light downward. Educate friends and family on how to reduce light pollution and learn more about how to protect our dark skies at Night Skies (U.S. National Park Service).

 

Dark Sky programs will resume during the summer of 2025.

 

M45, Pleiades.

NPS Photo

Lakota Star Knowledge Hike

Cultures around the world have passed down stories about stars and creation. Learn about how Lakota people have regional based beliefs called Star Knowledge on this hike.

• Hiking boots or hiking shoes in good condition are suggested for your safety and the safety of park staff and other participants.

• Long pants are recommended due to poison ivy and ticks.

• Flashlights or headlamps are suggested for your safety.

• Bring drinking water and a jacket - nighttime temperatures can be cold.

• Due to steep and rocky trail this activity is not wheelchair accessible.

 

The milky way lights up the dark sky.

NPS/Gin Majka

New Moon/Constellation Hike

Experience the night sky under the new moon giving us a better view of the stars as we walk across the Elk Mountain trail under the sparkling night sky.

• Long pants are recommended due to poison ivy and ticks.

• Hiking boots or hiking shoes in good condition are required for your safety and the safety of park staff and other participants.

• White light flashlights, headlamps are not allowed to be used during the hike (you may bring them for later use). Red light flashlights and headlamps are permitted as necessary. Flash photography is not permitted.

• Bring drinking water and a jacket - nighttime temperatures can be cold.

• Due to steep and rocky trail this activity is not wheelchair accessible.

 

Full Moon Hikes

Join Wind Cave's dark rangers for a guided full moon hike on the Elk Mountain trail.

• Long pants are recommended due to poison ivy and ticks.

• Hiking boots or hiking shoes in good condition are required for your safety and the safety of park staff and other participants.

• White light flashlights, headlamps are not allowed to be used during the hike (you may bring them for later use). Red light flashlights and headlamps are permitted as necessary. Flash photography is not permitted.

• Bring drinking water and a jacket - nighttime temperatures can be cold.

• Due to steep and rocky trail this activity is not wheelchair accessible.