Taos Stargazing at the Rio Grande Gorge

A Night with the Stars

Half-Day Tour Available in Taos, NM:

Thursday, Friday
9:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Regular Season: March 1 - November 30
Winter Season: December 1 - January 31

  • FLY DIRECT to Albuquerque, Santa Fe, or Taos Learn More ›

    MEET AT: Taos Gorge Bridge

    RETURN TO: Taos Gorge Bridge

    • Be sure to bring water.

    • Wear comfortable walking/hiking shoes as pavement and paths can be uneven.

    • Dress with layered warm clothing for cool high desert evenings 

    • Hot beverages from local partners

    • Cozy blankets

    • Gratuity for your inspired guide.

  • At high elevations and in a dry climate, proper hydration, warm breathable layers, and sun protection is a necessity. New Mexico weather can also change without much notice.

  • 1 = Easy | 3 = Moderate | 5 = Difficult

    1. Easy – Leisurely-paced walking tours with minimal physical exertion. Includes cultural explorations such as gallery visits, shopping tours, or cooking experiences. Suitable for all fitness levels.

    2. Mild – Slightly more active than Level 1, these tours may include some walking on uneven terrain or short, easy hikes. Includes beginner-friendly outdoor activities and luxury glamping experiences with minimal hiking.

    3. Moderate – Involves a mix of walking, hiking, or light physical activities such as kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Also includes the luxury stargazing glamping tour, which involves moderate exploration. Suitable for those with a reasonable fitness level who enjoy being active.

    4. Challenging – Requires a higher level of fitness and stamina. May include longer hikes, paddling for extended periods, or multi-hour activities in rugged terrain. Some glamping experiences that involve more intensive exploration also fit here.

    5. Difficult – Physically demanding adventures designed for experienced and fit participants. These could involve full-day strenuous hikes, technical outdoor activities, or rugged backcountry experiences.

2 GUEST MIN / 10 GUEST MAX

$45 per person + tax*

“The Rio Grande Gorge Stargazing night is a breathtaking experience that immerses you in the beauty of New Mexico’s dark skies. With an expert astronomer guiding you through star clusters, planets, and distant galaxies, the night feels both educational and awe-inspiring. Cozy blankets, locally crafted hot chocolate, and the stunning natural backdrop make this a truly unforgettable and serene adventure.”

- Kristin M

What to Expect: Taos Stargazing at the Rio Grande Gorge

Taos Night Sky · Taos Gorge Bridge

Discover the magic of New Mexico’s renowned dark skies with our Rio Grande Gorge Stargazing night. Beneath the breathtaking expanse of the Milky Way, this unforgettable experience invites visitors and locals alike to shift their gaze from the depths of the gorge to the wonders of the cosmos above, all from one of the state’s most iconic locations.

Begin the night at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, where you’ll meet both your local guide and astronomer who will take you only a few steps away to the star-viewing site. Far from the light pollution of city skies, you’ll have the opportunity to reconnect to the rhythms and motions of the starry vault. Your knowledgeable and enthusiastic astronomer, equipped with a powerful telescope, will take you on a laser-guided tour of the star clusters, planets, distant galaxies, and constellations that light up the high desert sky. Gain a new perspective on the universe as you learn the stories and science behind the celestial wonders above.

As the night unfolds, wrap yourself in a cozy artisan blanket and savor the rich flavors of locally crafted hot chocolate or tea. Surrounded by the fragrant sagebrush and chamisa, the dramatic beauty of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and the Río Grande flowing far below, you’ll be immersed in the tranquility and awe-inspiring grandeur of the night.

This intimate and immersive experience is perfect for those seeking to connect with the natural beauty and culture of Taos in a truly unique way.

Inspired Star Watcher
MIKE HAWKINS

“Michael Spear Hawkins or just “Mike” grew up in Fort Worth, Texas. His childhood was spent digging up dinosaur bones, reading, skateboarding and playing too much Nintendo.

He graduated from Southern Methodist University with a degree in Anthropology in 2010. Since then he has lived in Alaska, Colorado, and served his country as a Peace Corps Volunteer in The Republic of Vanuatu. He is currently based in Taos, New Mexico where he works as the Marketing Manager, leading all Marketing efforts for Angel Fire Resort.”

Inspired Astronomer
GARY ZIENTARA

Gary Zientara is a retired airline pilot living in Angel Fire with his wife, Jan. He is a lifelong lover of the night sky, an amateur astronomer/astrophotographer and strong advocate for reducing/eliminating light pollution so all of us can continue to enjoy the wonders of the universe.