Dark Sky Viewing Area
Experience a Dark Sky Viewing Area while visiting the Jack Pine Conservation Estate! Prepare for breathtaking nights. Our property is just 6km across the map from L&A’s famous Dark Sky Viewing Area. 1000’s of amateur and professional astronomers and stargazers from around the world come to experience the magical view in this region every year.
Stargazing at Jack Pine Conservation Estate
For hobbyists and amateur stargazers, breathtaking views can be enjoyed from several areas on the grounds. It is a fantastic sight to enjoy a fire while in the comforts of our patio pavilion. Others opt for a 1.8km hike up our Ridgeview Trail to an elevation of 804 feet. This view is the highest peak in the area which opens more sky viewing area and a closer feeling to the stars. It sits at an elevation of approximately 250 feet higher than L&A’s dark sky viewing area in the barren ridges, offering a unique experience overlooking the Kaladar Jack Pine Barren Reserve.
Plan ahead for your trip by checking weather and sky clarity in advance. There are often great variations in visibility by day and time of viewing.
General Rules of Thumb When Planning Your Visit:
- Less moon is better
- Deep blue skies = low humidity and clear air
- Pack a reclining chair, bug spray, a small flashlight, and binoculars or a telescope
- The best times to see the Milk Way are from 3 a.m. to 5 a.m. in May, 1 a.m. to 3 a.m. in June, 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. in July, nightfall to 11:30 p.m. in August, and nightfall to 9:30 p.m. in September.
The Jack Pine Conservation Estate promotes L&A’s Dark Sky Viewing Area for professional stargazers; thus, we have not opted to install a concrete pad for telescopic setup and positioning on site. The L&A’s Dark Sky grounds are well maintained and only 11 minutes away by car travel (15km on roadway) making the journey well worth it.
Our gate access will be accessible for your return after hours if you are a visiting guest. Enjoy your stary night and take lots of photos to share with us!
Visiting Lennox and Addington’s Dark Sky Viewing Area
For information on visiting L&A’s Dark Sky Viewing Area, please visit https://naturallyla.ca/explore/dark-sky-viewing-area-lennox-addington/
Just 37 kilometres north of Napanee, the L&A Dark Sky Viewing Area is ready to wow you with incredible, clear views. This spot is the most southerly point in Ontario that offers a night sky experience very similar to what was available more than 100 years ago.
With ample parking and a large concrete pad for camera or telescope setup, Dark Sky is perfect for anyone looking to observe the natural wonder of the stars. The viewing area is open from dusk until dawn – admission is free!
With ample parking and a large concrete pad for camera or telescope setup, Dark Sky is perfect for anyone looking to observe the natural wonder of the stars. The viewing area is open from dusk until dawn – admission is free!