There’s nothing more magical than viewing the gorgeous night sky. Amid the hustle, bustle, and bright lights of everyday life here in Michigan, it can be difficult to find time for stargazing. But there’s one fascinating park in the Great Lakes State where you’ll have the opportunity to bask in the celestial beauty of the night sky - and you’ll be absolutely enchanted.
Headlands International Dark Sky Park can be found at 15675 Headlands Road in Mackinaw City.
This is certainly not your ordinary park. Headlands received its designation as an official International Dark Sky Park in 2011, a true honor that sets it apart from other stargazing locales.
Headlands is open 24 hours per day, 365 days per year -- and remains absolutely dark all night. Visitors may bring red-filtered flashlights, but other forms of white-light illumination, including smartphones, are prohibited.
During the day, the park is ideal for exploration. With 550 acres of land along the Straits of Mackinac and a visitor center, there’s no shortage of space for hiking, cross-country skiing, and more.
When night falls, though, the real fun begins. While camping is not permitted in the park, visitors are encouraged to bring blankets and sleeping bags for their stargazing adventures.
Bundle up as you venture out to see the night sky -- the park’s waterfront location means that it’s often chilly. On clear nights, you’ll be mesmerized by the skies that surround you.
During the spring, visitors can expect to see constellations like Orion, and summer months give way to Scorpion and Sagittarius. On special occasions, gazers can marvel at meteor showers.
As if that weren’t enough, Headlands even offers rare opportunities to experience the Northern Lights. While the aurora can’t be predicted, it often appears in late March and September.
Headlands International Dark Sky Park admits visitors at no charge year-round, and the sights you’ll see here are priceless. No matter when you visit, you’re sure to be absolutely enchanted.
For more information about this breathtaking destination in the Great Lakes State, click here. Have you ever enjoyed the scenery at Headlands? Share your experiences with us in the comment section below!
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