The Shadow
NATURAL Bridge, Va. (VR)— Skywatchers are invited to experience the wonders of the night sky at Natural Bridge State Park during a special Dark Sky Night: New Moon program on March 21, 2026, from 8 to 10 p.m.
Held at one of Virginia’s designated International Dark Sky Parks, the event offers visitors a chance to explore the cosmos alongside knowledgeable park rangers. Attendees will learn to identify constellations, observe planets and nebulae through telescopes, and enjoy sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains silhouetted beneath a star-filled sky.
The program will begin at the Skyline Trailhead parking lot at Natural Bridge State Park, located at 6477 South Lee Highway. Participants should be prepared for a moderate 10-minute uphill hike to reach the viewing area. Visitors are encouraged to bring something comfortable to sit on and a red-light flashlight, if available, to help preserve night vision.
For those who may have difficulty walking uphill, the park will offer a haywagon ride to the viewing location. The wagon has seating for 20 people and departs promptly at the program’s start time. Pre-registration and pre-payment by credit card are required for the wagon ride and can be arranged by calling (540) 254-0795. Only one wagon runs per night, and organizers ask that reservations be limited to those who truly need assistance.
No registration is required to attend the stargazing program itself. Visitors without a Virginia State Parks annual pass should note that a $5 parking fee per vehicle applies and may be paid in cash or via QR code.
All Dark Sky Night programs are weather dependent. If conditions require cancellation, a notice will be posted on the event listing. Questions about the program may be directed to a park ranger at (540) 254-0795.
Additional Dark Sky Night: New Moon programs are scheduled throughout 2026, including May 16, June 13, July 11, Sept. 12, and Oct. 10, with varying evening hours.
The event is open to all ages and falls under the categories of astronomy, evening programs, and outdoor natural history. For more information, contact Natural Bridge State Park at (540) 291-1326 or email NaturalBridge@dcr.virginia.gov.
Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or simply curious about the stars, Dark Sky Night promises a memorable evening under one of Virginia’s darkest skies.
