Wyoming’s vast wilderness and minimal light pollution create perfect conditions for night sky photography. After 30 years of capturing the Milky Way across these landscapes, I’ve learned the optimal conditions and locations for stellar astrophotography. Here’s your complete guide to Wyoming’s best dark-sky locations:
- Devil’s Tower National Monument: The tower’s distinctive silhouette against the Milky Way creates stunning compositions. It is best photographed during the summer months (June-August) when the galactic core aligns perfectly behind the monument. Pro tip: Plan your shoot during the new moon and arrive 2-3 hours after sunset for optimal dark sky conditions.
- Grand Teton National Park: Mormon Row’s historic barns provide perfect foreground elements for Milky Way photography. The Tetons themselves create dramatic silhouettes against the star-filled sky. My favorite spot is Schwabacher Landing, where still waters offer mirror reflections of both mountains and stars. Winter months offer spectacular opportunities to capture star trails over snow-capped peaks.
- Yellowstone National Park: The geothermal features add unique elements to night photography. Steam from geysers creates ethereal effects under starlight, while thermal pools reflect the stars. Best locations include Old Faithful (time your shots with eruptions) and Grand Prismatic Spring. Note: Special permits may be required for night photography.
- Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area: The canyon walls create natural framing for the Milky Way. The lack of nearby cities means extremely dark skies. The horseshoe bend area offers dramatic compositions with the canyon walls silhouetted against the stars. Best photographed during late spring when the Milky Way aligns with the canyon.
- Vedauwoo Recreation Area: These granite formations provide excellent foreground interest for night shots. The area’s elevation (8,000 feet) means clearer skies for astrophotography. The rocks create interesting shadow play under moonlight. It is accessible year-round, though summer offers the best Milky Way visibility.
- Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area: The reservoir’s still waters perfectly reflect the night sky. The red cliffs illuminate beautifully under the moonlight. Time your visit during the dark of the moon for the best star visibility. Spring and fall offer the clearest skies.
- Medicine Bow National Forest: High elevation and distance from cities provide excellent dark sky conditions. The Snowy Range area offers alpine lakes for reflection shots. Fall colors add interesting foreground elements under moonlight. Winter offers crystal-clear skies but requires cold-weather preparation.
- Hot Springs State Park: Steam from the springs creates unique atmospheric effects in night photography. It is best shot during colder months when steam is more visible. Light pollution from Thermopolis requires careful composition to avoid unwanted glow.
- Wind River Range: It has some of the darkest skies in Wyoming. The glacial lakes provide perfect reflection opportunities. The high elevation means clearer atmospheric conditions for sharp star photos. Summer access is easiest, though shoulder seasons offer unique conditions.
- Jackson Hole: Despite the town’s lights, nearby areas offer excellent dark sky opportunities. The National Elk Refuge provides wide-open views of the sky. Winter presents opportunities for aurora photography when conditions align.
Essential Equipment for Wyoming Night Photography:
- Full-frame camera with good high-ISO performance
- Fast wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or faster)
- Sturdy tripod rated for your gear weight
- Remote shutter release
- Red headlamp to preserve night vision
- Warm layers (nights get cold, even in summer)
- Backup batteries (cold depletes them faster)
Technical Settings to Start With:
- ISO: 3200-6400
- Aperture: f/2.8 or wider
- Shutter Speed: 20-25 seconds (to avoid star trails)
- White Balance: 3800-4300K
- Focus: Manual, set to infinity
These locations require careful planning around moon phases and weather conditions. Always check local regulations regarding night access, and be prepared for wildlife encounters in the dark. The best Milky Way photography opportunities typically occur between April and October when the galactic core is visible in the Northern Hemisphere.
