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Arizona Attractions|Small Towns

This Remote Little Town In Arizona Is One Of The Darkest Places In The Nation

By Katie Lawrence | Published December 20, 2018

Founded right here in Arizona, the International Dark-Sky Association is an incredible effort to preserve our nation’s most remote state and national parks. The town of Oracle is among the darkest places in America, providing unparalleled views of the Milky Way and other celestial bodies. See for yourself:

Home to about 20,000 people, Oracle is well-known for Biosphere 2, an incredible scientific research experiment. Despite housing such a high-tech facility, this small Arizona town is remote enough to have received an International Dark Sky Park designation four years ago.

Located in the northern foothills of the Catalina Mountains, Oracle State Park is a 4,000-square-foot wildlife refuge. It offers day use picnic areas and over 15 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

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This map is a handy guide that includes distances and elevation of the trails.

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Set off on one of nine trails, each offering its own unique experience. You'll see beautiful plant life, native Arizona wildlife, and plenty of unforgettable sights.

Designated as an International Dark Sky Park in 2014, Oracle is one of Arizona's best places to view the night sky. It's far enough away from light pollution for numerous celestial bodies to become visible.

Regular star parties bring together astronomy enthusiasts and stargazers to marvel at the Milky Way and all its inhabitants. Gather round and watch the sunset while you prepare for the show-stopping scene that’s about to manifest.

Large, high-resolution telescopes allow for an even closer look at the cosmos. Who knows what planets and constellations you'll see!

You'll find the park at 3820 Wildlife Dr., Oracle, AZ 85623. The American Avenue Parking Area is open seven days a week for stargazing.

Have you ever visited Oracle State Park or the town around it? What’s your favorite dark sky park in Arizona? Let us know in the comments below!

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3820 Wildlife Dr., Oracle, AZ 85623