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Astrospheric Sky ForecastDark Sites Near the Mid-Hudson Valley
The mid-Hudson Valley and the Catskills support some of the darkest, most easily accessed observing sites in the northeast US. Truly dark skies (Bortle 2) can be found here, less than 90 miles from New York City.
These informational PDFs are primarily curated by MHAA member Michael Goldstein. They are designed to be printable on a single double-sided page and include key information such as legally obtaining access, where to park, horizons, tips, etc.
We suggest starting with the Dark Site Informational PDF Overview to understand their layout and how to interpret them.
*** 5/27/25 – Added Pepacton Cemetery and Dorsett Rd Parcel
New users of the MHAA Dark Site Informational PDFs should read this overview first. This document offers an overview of what our Dark Site informational PDFs look like and how to interpret the images showing the horizon/line of site.
A fabulous, easily accessible dark site at one of the prettiest locations in the Catskills. (~Bortle 3-4)
A lovely dark site with simple access close to Hunter. (~Bortle 4)
A level area with a nearly unobstructed view of the sky in Bovina, NY. (~Bortle 2)
Managed by the NY City Dept. of Environmental Protection.
The summer home in Roxbury, NY of a champion Catskills preservationist, now a non-profit state historic park. Easy access from main roads and a variety of potential spots along a mowed trail to setup, including the parking lot. (~Bortle 3)
MHAA members with proof of an active membership and a signed liability waiver are permitted to be here at night, for free!
Check out this page for details and to get everything you need.
Easily accessible dark site with its own exit on the Taconic State Parkway. Home base of Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association. (~Bortle 3)
Full (paid) MHAA members can fill out this form to use the club’s permit for especially easy access.
Hidden away in the western Catskills, Little Pond is likely Bortle 2, and yet still within 2 hours of the George Washington Bridge. (~Bortle 2)
A Bortle 3 site located near some of the best trout fishing in the Catskills. Fish all day, observe all night. Heaven!! (~Bortle 3)
A fab hiking area containing two observing locations. Be prepared to walk a little ways to set up. (~Bortle 3-4)
A super convenient public access area overlooking the Pepacton Reservoir. (~Bortle 2)
There are two setup locations; an area in the cemetery and a turn-off immediately East of it. Read the PDF for the pros and cons of each.