2026 Star Gazing Party
Description
Guests are invited to explore the night sky by moving between various telescopes, each focused on different celestial objects throughout the evening. Our astronomers will highlight multiple points of interest, and due to the variety of scopes and eyepieces, even viewing the same object through different instruments will offer a unique perspective. We strongly encourage and welcome all questions.
This is an all-ages event, and ladders will be provided to ensure smaller children can comfortably view through the telescopes.
Food and beverages will be available for purchase from Snowpine Lodge. $20 dinner includes a personal pizza, salad bar, and soft drink.
Enjoy live music by Aspen Anonda you journey from one viewing station to another.
Make it a staycation at Snowpine Lodge with rooms starting at $99. To book, you will need to call 801-742-2000 or email reservations@snowpine.com and use code ALTASTAR to book. This rate is subject to availability and dependent on room type, however folks are welcome to make it a week or weekend stay - rate is open for booking September 1-16th.
Please dress warmly for the evening as temperatures can be cold. We recommend wearing warm clothes, gloves, a hat, and bringing hand warmers.
Please note: This event is contingent upon favorable weather conditions. In the event of a cancellation, participants will be notified.
To preserve your night vision, please ensure your phones are turned off. It takes approximately 30 minutes for eyes to fully adapt to the dark after exposure to bright light. Once accustomed, your night vision will be significantly enhanced. Should you choose to bring a flashlight, only red-light flashlights are permissible, as red light does not impair night vision.
We kindly suggest a donation of $5 per adult. Your contribution will support Friends of Alta in their vital efforts to protect our beloved environment for future generations. By participating, you are supporting a valuable cause and positively impacting the preservation of Little Cottonwood Canyon.
Food Menu:
$20 includes a personal pizza, salad bar, and soft drink.
Thank you to our incredible co-hosts Snowpine Lodge and Salt Lake Astronomical Society for help make this event happen!
Lineup
Aspen Anonda
Aspen Anonda is an indie singer-songwriter whose voice and heartfelt lyrics have captivated audiences for over a decade. Originally from Canton, Georgia, she now resides in Park City, Utah and performs all throughout the country. With a rich musical journey that spans across cities and emotions, Aspen's music is a reflection of her unique life experiences and artistic vision.
FAQs
- Are children allowed?
Yes, this is an all ages event. Ladders will be provided for young children.
- How do we donate and what do our donations go to?
Thank you for your interest in donating to our cause! You can donate directly to Friends of Alta either through this site HERE or via the Friends of Alta website HERE, which offers various donation platforms. A portion of your donation helps cover the costs of scope operators who generously drive up the canyon with their equipment and time. The remainder of your generous contribution supports Friends of Alta's ongoing efforts to protect Alta for future generations and funds educational materials and events provided to the public.
- What if it will be bad weather or cloud coverage is bad?
We will notify you through your RSVP through this site and all of Friends of Altas and Snowpine Lodges social media platforms. Any donation will be refunded at that time.
- Can I use my headlamp or bring a lamp to see at night?
To preserve your night vision, please ensure your phones are turned off. It takes approximately 30 minutes for eyes to fully adapt to the dark after exposure to bright light. Once accustomed, your night vision will be significantly enhanced. Should you choose to bring a flashlight, only red-light flashlights are permissible, as red light does not impair night vision.
Snowpine Lodge will have various lighting throughout the location to help with walking.
- What clothing should I wear?
As the event date approaches, we will have a clearer idea of the weather. Meanwhile, we encourage you to dress warmly since it will be Fall and at a higher elevation in Alta.
- Where do I park?
Parking is limited near Snowpine Lodge. As such, we encourage you to carpool when possible. You will park on the North side of the road near Snowpine Lodge.
- Can I receive a discount to stay at Snowpine Lodge?
Yes! A discount will be available for guests during the night to stay. To book, you will need to call 801-742-2000 or email reservations@snowpine.com and use code ALTASTAR to book. This rate is subject to availability and dependent on room type, however folks are welcome to make it a week or weekend stay - rate is open for booking September 1-16th.
- What food will be available for purchase?
$20 includes a personal pizza, salad bar, and soft drink. Additional beverages available for purchase.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity