Congratulations to the Town of Breckenridge who just became the word’s first ski town be a Certified Dark Sky Community by DarkSky International. Breckenridge had been seeking the designation since 2023 and took a few years of reduce swap out street lamps and reduce their light pollution.
“The Rocky Mountain towns of Colorado offer immense natural beauty, especially when it comes to the night sky. With Breckenridge’s work as an International Dark Sky Community, the town hopes to protect and preserve the night sky for residents and visitors, now and into the future. We at DarkSky International are excited to certify a significant tourist destination that will highlight the wonders of dark skies to visitors from all around the world.” –Michael Rymer, DarkSky International
Now that Breckenridge has secured the certification they are looking to further refine their light reduction measures and are working with residents to have non-compliant lighting meet Dark Sky regulations.
“The certification not only honors our long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship, but it sets the Town up for a more sustainable and economically resilient future. Stargazing, education, and responsible tourism are now part of what makes Breckenridge shine — under the stars.” -Breckenridge Mayor Kelly Owens
There are currently 59 Dark Sky Communities across the world, with the majority located in the U.S.
Dark Skies Press Release:
The Town of Breckenridge sits at 9,603 feet above sea level in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, just west of the Continental Divide and approximately 80 miles from Denver. Surrounded by National Forest lands and the Tenmile Range, Breckenridge offers awe-inspiring views, year-round access to nature, and some of the clearest alpine skies in the region. Its high-elevation environment supports a rich array of wildlife — including bears, moose, foxes, hummingbirds, and owls — and provides opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and stargazing directly from trails and open space preserves. Breckenridge’s proximity to the White River National Forest and extensive trail systems makes it an ideal launching point for exploring Colorado’s alpine nightscapes.
The Town of Breckenridge has long focused on sustainability and environmental stewardship. The Town’s night sky conservation efforts began in 2007 with the adoption of their exterior lighting ordinance. The ordinance establishes lighting zones, requires fully shielded fixtures, and sets limitations on color temperature and brightness. The Town underwent a review of lighting regulations, conducted a comprehensive lighting inventory, and prioritized community education as the foundation for its designation as an International Dark Sky Community.
In 2023-2024, the Town surveyed properties to determine current lighting compliance. As part of the Town-wide compliance effort, an extensive lighting informational website was created, and staff held a diverse offering of public outreach events which are ongoing along compliance efforts.
Visitors can enjoy unimpeded views of the night sky throughout Breckenridge thanks to its walkable, bike-friendly layout and free public transit system. Some of the best locations for stargazing include the Sawmill Museum, Gold Run Nordic Center, and the summit of Discovery Hill. Guests are encouraged to explore nearby trails and open spaces, many of which provide quiet, natural settings ideal for nighttime reflection and skywatching. The Town also regularly hosts community events that promote environmental stewardship and celebrate its natural heritage. As part of its on-going commitment to certification, Breckenridge will continually monitor sky brightness and expand its Dark Sky education and tourism initiatives in partnership with regional organizations.
Designated
2025
Category
International Dark Sky Community
