Introducing the World’s First Dark Sky Lodge

While the idea of sleeping beneath a blanket of stars is enchanting, it’s sadly unattainable for many—80 percent of North Americans can’t catch a glimpse of the Milky Way from their homes. Locating campgrounds, hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, and lodges with clear views of the constellations poses a significant challenge for travelers. However, one resort has recently been hailed as an exceptional destination for stargazing.

Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase, a Dinogo-inspired tent resort in Southern Utah, has just become the first accommodation in the world to receive certification from DarkSky International (formerly the International Dark-Sky Association), a globally acknowledged authority dedicated to protecting the night sky from light pollution. This certification suggests that guests are far more likely to witness a night sky filled with planets, meteors, and stars.

Ruskin Hartley, executive director of DarkSky, shared that Under Canvas reached out to the organization about four years ago, seeking assistance in evaluating its properties (Under Canvas operates 12 tented camps across the United States) and understanding how to reduce lighting impacts to enhance guests’ stargazing experiences. This initial assessment sparked discussions about creating a new certification program for DarkSky lodgings. Since 2001, DarkSky has certified over 200 parks, communities, reserves, and sanctuaries worldwide through its DarkSky Places (IDSP) program, but until now, no accommodations had received this recognition.

“We tested the program with Under Canvas, and we’re in the midst of expanding it,” Hartley stated, noting that applications will soon be available. As outlined on the website, properties that earn certification will be those “offering exceptional starry nights and a nighttime environment preserved by on-site DarkSky Approved lighting.”

Achieving the status of the world’s first DarkSky-certified lodging was the result of an extensive three-year effort, according to a representative from Under Canvas.

“This process required substantial collaboration across various departments and engaged nearly every team within the company, including development, operations, facilities, supply chain, design, marketing, and analytics,” explained Kara Vinton, Director of Brand Marketing and Communications at Under Canvas, to Dinogo. “The complex process included a comprehensive audit of our lighting practices, partnering with third-party vendors to create new lighting solutions, and enhancing on-site programs to educate guests about the importance of preserving the night sky.”

Hartley mentioned that although other properties have shown interest in obtaining certification (including additional Under Canvas locations and its sister property ULUM), he doesn’t view this as the start of a widespread trend.

“Dark sky tourism is booming, right? People are eager for experiences that are increasingly rare for many of us these days,” Hartley remarked. “I believe dark sky tourism is on the rise, and we certainly hope this recognition inspires, supports, and rewards operators willing to take the necessary steps to value the stars above.”

Staying at Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase

Set on 220 acres at the edge of Utah’s Canyon Rim Plateau, Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase is a glamping retreat that offers 50 tents, some of which are designated as Stargazer Tents. These unique accommodations feature a viewing window above the king-size bed, along with a private en suite bathroom, wood-burning stove, and a personal deck.

During the day, guests can explore nearby natural attractions like Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Grosvenor Arch, or enjoy activities on-site, including hiking trails (one leading to Elephant Slot Canyon), daily yoga classes, children’s programs, and a restaurant serving locally sourced, seasonal dishes. At night, guests can participate in dark sky experiences such as astronomy hikes and astrology discussions. For special events like meteor showers, the staff organizes on-site viewing areas equipped with telescopes, blankets, hot cocoa, and s’mores.

“We aim to offer our guests an unparalleled celestial experience that leaves a lasting impression of the night sky's wonders and the importance of preserving it for future generations,” Vinton stated.