Get A Glimpse Of Outer Space At This Idaho State Park's New Observatory
By Courtnie Erickson|Published July 17, 2023
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Bruneau Dunes State Park is one of the most unique state parks in Idaho. Delightful to visit all year long, this state park offers incredible sandboarding, hiking, and camping opportunities. But now, it offers something new — a glimpse into outer space. Bruneau Dunes State Park is home to a new observatory that lets you see farther and more clearly into space than ever before. It’s a chance to step outside and truly explore.
Located in western Idaho is Bruneau Dunes State Park. This 4,800-acre state park has something for the entire family from hiking to camping.
This new CDK 700 27” telescope features a below-the-shoulder-high eyepiece, which allows viewing without standing on a ladder, making it more accessible. It also boasts off-site image projection and remote access for far-away partners. This is one of the most powerful and largest telescopes in Idaho.
The observatory is open to the public on Friday and Saturday evenings. Tours and solar viewing are available and program start times are dependent upon sunset. There is a small viewing fee and a motor vehicle entrance fee to enter the park.
Keep in mind that the observatory may close early due to the weather or lack of public attendance.
While there are many things to do at Bruneau Dunes State Park, a visit to the new observatory is an absolute must. You may just get a chance to view planets, nebula, or a galaxy!
For more information on the new observatory and other news at Bruneau Dunes State Park, visit the Idaho State Parks website and the Bruneau Dunes State Park Facebook page.
Have you spent time at Bruneau Dunes State Park? What did you do at this park? Have you visited the new observatory? Let us know in the comments!
One of our favorite hikes at this state park is the Bruneau Dunes Loop, a 2.3-mile loop trail that will challenge you both physically and mentally. You can learn more about it in our feature article and then check out our ultimate hiking list to ensure you have all of your hiking accessories for the journey.
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