From Virgin: Zion Night Sky Jeep Tour with a Telescope

When it comes to visiting Zion National Park, most travelers focus on the breathtaking daylight views: towering cliffs, vibrant canyon walls, and scenic hikes. But what if you could see Zion from a whole new perspective after sunset? That’s exactly what the Zion Night Sky Jeep Tour with a Telescope promises—a relaxed, star-filled evening high above the crowds, with the dark skies of Utah offering a celestial show you won’t forget.

We haven’t personally taken this tour, but after reviewing all available details and traveler feedback, it’s clear that this experience offers something special. The two standout features are the stunning views of the night sky—thousands of stars visible without light pollution—and the comfortable setting of recliner chairs and a telescope, making stargazing both easy and cozy. The one possible hiccup? Some guests have found the experience a bit unstructured or underwhelming if expectations are centered solely around high-tech equipment like telescopes.

This tour appeals to those who love celestial views, peaceful nights outdoors, or want a different way to experience Zion after the daytime crowds have left. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting to turn their Zion trip into a memorable, starry adventure.

Key Points

• Dark Sky Advantage: Zion’s status as an International Dark Sky Park makes this tour a prime opportunity for stargazing.
• Comfortable Experience: Recliner chairs and blankets help you relax while gazing upward.
• Elevated Location: Taking you over 5,000 feet into the mountains offers peace away from city lights.
• Equipment and Guidance: Includes binoculars, a telescope, and a knowledgeable guide to help identify constellations.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 10) ensure a more intimate and personalized experience.
• Value Consideration: At $100 per person, the tour offers a memorable night under the stars, but the experience’s success depends on the guide and equipment.

If you’re imagining a night of peaceful star-gazing in Zion, you’ll want to know what’s really involved. Here’s a detailed look at what this 2-hour adventure entails and why it might be a highlight of your visit, or not.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey to the Darkness

The tour departs from the Balcony One restaurant in Springdale, making it easy to incorporate into a day of Zion sightseeing. From there, you’ll board a Jeep that swiftly takes you up into the mountains, climbing above 5,000 feet to escape Zion’s daytime crowds and light pollution. This elevation is key; it ensures a clear view of the night sky, unfiltered by city glow or nearby streetlights.

The drive itself is a scenic highlight. You’ll pass through quiet, rugged terrain, with the last light fading behind you, giving a sense of leaving civilization behind. The journey is short but provides the anticipation of being somewhere special—away from the busy park roads.

The Viewing Setup

Once at the designated spot, the experience shifts to relaxing. Recliner chairs are supplied, allowing you to lean back comfortably and enjoy the vastness above. Blankets are provided to ward off any chill, which can be surprisingly crisp at this altitude, especially after sunset.

The star of the show (literally) is the telescope. While some reviews suggest that the telescopes might not always meet expectations—one reviewer noted the absence of a telescope altogether—most experience guides carefully position the equipment to give detailed views of the moon and stars. You’ll also receive binoculars and red light flashlights to facilitate star identification without ruining your night vision.

What You’ll See

Thanks to Zion’s status as an International Dark Sky Park, the skies are remarkably free of artificial light interference. Expect to see thousands of stars, including some familiar constellations. Guides often point out prominent features like the Milky Way, planets, or interesting star clusters. The experience is more about the peaceful atmosphere and the sense of vastness than a high-tech astronomical presentation.

The Guide and the Experience

The live guide in English leads the session, explaining constellations and celestial objects. Some reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience—bringing the night sky to life with stories and explanations. Others found that using an app to identify stars isn’t as engaging as a personal guide, but it’s still a helpful tool.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts on the Tour

The 2-hour length means you get a good amount of time to relax, look up, and enjoy the stars. You might want to stay longer, especially if the sky is particularly clear. Since this is a small-group tour (limited to 10 participants), you’ll find it feels intimate and relaxed rather than rushed.

Value-wise, $100 per person is reasonable given the exclusivity of the location, the equipment provided, and the opportunity to enjoy Zion’s night skies away from light pollution. For those passionate about astronomy or seeking a tranquil night experience, it’s likely a worthwhile addition to your Zion itinerary.

However, the experience’s quality hinges heavily on the guide’s knowledge and the equipment’s condition. As some reviews indicate, if the telescopes aren’t used properly or if the guide relies solely on an app without much storytelling, the experience might feel underwhelming. It’s worth confirming in advance whether the tour will have functioning telescopes and a dedicated guide.

This experience is best suited for those who:

• Love stargazing and want a guided experience rather than self-exploring
• Appreciate peaceful outdoor evenings away from city lights
• Enjoy comfortable, relaxed atmospheres with recliner chairs and blankets
• Seek unique perspectives on Zion, viewing it from above the crowds and noise
• Are prepared for a small-group setting which enhances intimacy and interaction

It might not be ideal for travelers expecting a high-tech astronomical show, or for those who prefer daytime activities. Families with young children under 40 lbs are required to bring their own child restraint, so check your children’s needs before booking.

This tour offers a rare chance to see Zion in a completely different light—literally. If you’re a fan of starry nights, enjoy relaxing in cozy chairs, and want to escape Zion’s daytime crowds, this adventure delivers. The peaceful, elevated setting provides an ideal backdrop for contemplating the universe, making it a memorable part of your Zion trip.

However, it’s important to have realistic expectations. The actual experience will depend on the guide’s expertise and the functioning of the telescopes. For travelers who appreciate authentic, low-key experiences and are willing to embrace some unpredictability, this tour can be quite rewarding.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a high-tech, perfectly organized star party, you might find this tour a bit lacking. Still, the chance to be under Zion’s dark skies is a compelling reason to consider it, especially if you’re traveling with others who love the night sky.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour starts at Balcony One restaurant in Springdale, making it convenient to include as part of your Zion day.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, generally in the evening, giving plenty of time for star viewing.

What should I bring?
The tour supplies blankets and flashlights, but you might want to dress warmly, especially at higher elevations where it can get chilly after sunset.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children under 40 lbs/18 kg must bring their own child restraint to be used with a lap belt. Only service dogs are permitted.

Is the experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guide explains constellations and celestial features, making it accessible even for those new to astronomy.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 2 days in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, small groups make it easy for solo travelers to join and enjoy a personalized experience.

How good are the telescopes?
While most reviews mention the telescopes positively, there have been some concerns about availability or quality. It’s best to check ahead if this is a priority.

Will I see the Milky Way?
Given Zion’s status as a Dark Sky Park and the elevation, chances are high you’ll view the Milky Way along with other celestial objects.

Is there any age restriction?
Children are welcome, but they must bring their own restraints if under 40 lbs. No specific age limit is mentioned, but it’s a relaxing outdoor experience rather than a high-energy activity.

This guided night sky tour offers a peaceful escape and a glimpse into the universe from Zion’s dark skies. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or simply looking for a memorable night away from the daytime crowds, it’s worth considering for a truly different perspective on Zion National Park.

You can check availability for your dates here: