Night Sky: Our Solar System

Chimney Rock National Monument Tours

This program is timed for when the moon is wonderfully visible in the early night sky. That makes it so we can enjoy the moon and several planets along with some deep sky objects that are beyond our galaxy that we can see with the telescopes. We hope you will appreciate how rare this opportunity is and how fortunate you are to experience it. Treasure it, along with experiencing an area where the ancient people actually lived and daily and nightly walked around. 

There are three parts to our program starting with a live brief history of Chimney Rock, followed by a video presentation about the ancient people and explaining why astronomy was such an important part of their lives. The third part of the program is a recorded power point presentation that gives understanding of our solar system. There will also be interesting details about our moon.

Everyone bring your questions, fold up chairs, a flashlight, blankets or pillows to the Hura Dura, or paved viewing and seating area. . Remember that at this altitude the nights begin to cool rapidly after sunset, so an appropriate jacket and sweater will enable you to remain comfortable while you enjoy the majesty of the night sky at Chimney Rock.

Guests must enter through the Hwy 151 entry gate during the check-in period stated below; the gate will be locked at the end of that time.  

Tickets are $16 (ages 13 and up), $8 (ages 5-12), under 5 free, and are considered a non-refundable, non-transferable donation. A booking fee applies to each ticket purchased online or through the call center. 

Making a reservation through the call center or website is the only way to guarantee a spot on this tour. 

Most programs are at full capacity prior to the event, but we will accommodate walk-ins if space is available. Booking fees do not apply to walk-ins. 

 Program Dates/Times:  

              5/26: Check-in: 7:15 - 7:30 PM Program: 8:45PM

6/23, 7/21: Check-in: 7:30 - 7:45 PM Program: 9:00 PM

8/25: Check-in: 6:45 - 7:00 PM Program: 8:15 PM

9/22: Check-in: 6:15 - 6:30 PM Program: 7:45 PM

Select a date to see a list of times

Need to Know

• • Be sure to arrive within the check-in period. The gate will close at the end of that period.
    
  • Dress for outdoor weather and wind, insects, cool temperatures, etc.
    
  • Visitors should check in at the Visitor Center located one-half mile inside the entrance gate.
    
  • Each person attending should have water and a flashlight.
    
  • Ancient structures are not visible from a vehicle.
    
  • Special interpretive programs are offered by Chimney Rock Interpretive Association (CRIA), a not-for-profit volunteer organization, under agreement with the Forest Service. Program fees are used to support the interpretive programs and activities presented by CRIA. All fees are non-refundable.
    
  • You are responsible for the safety of yourself and family.
    
  • Pit toilet-style restrooms are available at the Visitor Center and the upper parking lot.
    
  • Smoking and alcoholic beverages are not permitted anywhere in the National Monument.
    
  • We encourage guests to stay hydrated in this dry climate, but please be sure to use the trash receptacles at the upper restroom and/or Cabin areas; rodents are attracted to food scraps and can damage the archaeological sites.

• Reservations will be cut off 12 hours prior to start of program.

Photo Gallery