Humans have always looked into the night sky with wonder. But the night sky looks very different today than it did for our ancestors. In fact, nearly 80% of the world’s population lives under light-polluted skies, making it harder and harder for people to see the night sky in all its splendor. In Highlands, we are proud to support the dark-sky movement and provide exceptional stargazing conditions in North Carolina thanks to our high elevation, remote location, and minimal lights. Stargaze from one of the mountain view homes from Highlands Vacation Rentals, or check out one of these spots nearby:
Stargazing Spots near Highlands, NC
Blue Valley Overlook
Drive three miles from downtown Highlands along Highway 106 to Blue Valley Overlook for fantastic stargazing close to town. Park at the small lot next to the road, walk to the overlook, let your eyes adjust, and start gazing into the night sky!
Osage Overlook
Osage Overlook is another popular stargazing spot located off Highway 106, approximately six miles from town. Set up your chairs and stargaze by the roadside, surrounded by panoramic vistas of the Scaly and Osage Mountains.
Sunset Rock
Sunset Rock is not only one of Highlands’ most popular hikes but also one of the best stargazing spots in town. Walk the trail in the evening and watch the sunset over Highlands and the Brushy Face Mountains. Stick around after the sun sets to stargaze in this natural cliff-side amphitheater. Make sure to bring flashlights, so you can easily navigate the trail on the way back.
Whiteside Mountain
Whiteside Mountain is the highest elevation trail in Highlands, reaching 4,900 feet on the two-mile loop. The high elevation provides fantastic conditions for stargazing, placing you far above the hazes, fog, smoke, and light pollution that can mask your view. To get here, you will have to hike a mile up the steep trail, making it one of the more challenging stargazing spots to access.
Stargazing Tips
- Check the weather forecast before heading out and plan to stargaze on clear and cloudless nights.
- Familiarize yourself with constellations and planets. You don’t have to be an expert, just memorize a few like the Big Dipper to help you navigate the night sky.
- You don’t need a fancy telescope to enjoy stargazing. Look with your naked eye or bring a pair of binoculars for a closer look.
- Give your eyes at least 20 minutes to adapt to the darkness. Avoid looking at bright lights after your eyes have adapted.
- Use stargazing apps like SkyView Lite to help you spot celestial objects.
Book Your Vacation Home in the North Carolina Mountains
You don’t have to travel far to discover exceptional stargazing in North Carolina. Book one of our mountain view rentals and start stargazing in your backyard. Simply step outside, set up a blanket, and use the SkyView app to navigate the wonders of the night sky. Enjoy the seclusion of our properties and all the comforts of home, including fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and spacious living areas. Book with us today and experience the magic of the North Carolina mountains!
