Orderville: East Zion Stargazing Trip with Hot Chocolate

Experience the Night Sky in East Zion for Just $20

This stargazing tour in Orderville, Utah offers an affordable way to enjoy a spectacular night under the stars. For $20 per person, visitors are taken on a one-hour evening experience that combines stellar views, guidance from knowledgeable guides, and cozy comforts like hot chocolate and blankets. The tour departs from the recreation barn at Zion Ponderosa Resort, with a short walk of 5 to 10 minutes to the designated stargazing spot.

The tour emphasizes the Utah Milky Way, visible in an area with minimal light pollution. While the experience is generally suitable for most guests, some reviews note that the walk can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues or older family members. Nevertheless, the opportunity to see a shooting star and explore the constellations makes this a memorable outing for those interested in astronomy and natural beauty.

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Key Points

• Affordable price at $20 per person for a 1-hour guided stargazing experience
• Includes a telescope, hot chocolate, and blankets to enhance the evening
• Focus on the Utah Milky Way and constellation learning with expert guides
• Short walk to the viewing area, with accommodations available via cart for mobility concerns
• Opportunity to see a shooting star and view planets like Jupiter through a telescope
• Weather-dependent experience; may not operate during bad weather

The Meeting Point at Zion Ponderosa Resort

The tour begins at the recreation barn within the Zion Ponderosa Resort complex. Guests should arrive prepared to walk briefly to the stargazing site, a process described as 5 to 10 minutes. Guides meet guests here, providing warm blankets and setting the tone for an cozy night.

This meeting location offers a practical and accessible starting point, though some reviews suggest that for larger groups, the walk could be more comfortably managed with prior arrangements like a cart. The resort setting provides a natural and scenic backdrop, perfect for a night under the open sky.

What Guides Do to Enhance the Experience

The trained guides lead the group through learning about constellations, sharing stories and facts about the night sky. Their knowledge and friendly delivery are often praised, making the tour both educational and entertaining.

Guides are attentive to giving everyone a chance to view the stars through a powerful telescope, including Jupiter and its moons. They also share interesting details about shooting stars, ensuring that each guest has a chance to witness this fleeting event.

While some guests note that the guides’ narration can be slightly difficult to hear at times, their warmth and expertise are consistently appreciated.

Viewing the Utah Milky Way and Celestial Wonders

One of the most celebrated features of this tour is the view of the Utah Milky Way. Under clear skies, the crystal-clear atmosphere allows for a stunning display of stars, with many constellations visible to the naked eye.

Using the powerful telescope, guests get a closer look at celestial objects — a highlight especially for first-time viewers. The opportunity to see a shooting star further elevates the experience, creating a moment of awe in the quiet of the night.

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The Walk to the Stargazing Spot: What to Expect

The walk to the viewing area is approximately 5 to 10 minutes, covering terrain that some guests find moderate to challenging, especially for older or less mobile individuals. While a cart is available for those who need assistance, the initial walk can be strenuous if not prepared.

Guests are encouraged to wear warm clothing, as the desert evening temperatures can drop quickly. The walk itself offers a chance to enjoy the quiet beauty of the surroundings before reaching the prime stargazing location.

Comforts of the Tour: Blankets and Hot Chocolate

Once at the viewing site, guests are provided with warm blankets and hot chocolate, making the experience cozy despite the chill of the night air.

The hot chocolate bar offers a simple but appreciated treat, although some reviews mention that the hot chocolate can be watery. It’s worth considering bringing additional snacks or drinks if desired. The blankets help keep everyone warm while gazing upward, especially during the colder months.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility Tips

While the tour is designed to be accessible, mobility concerns are worth noting. The walk to the viewing location can be moderate to difficult for some, and a cart can be used to ease this part of the experience.

Guests should dress warmly with hats, jackets, and gloves, particularly in fall and winter, when temperatures can drop significantly. The tour is not suitable for pets, alcohol, or drugs, and weather conditions may cause cancellations, so it’s best to check before booking.

The Atmosphere and Group Size

Reviews reveal that group sizes can be large, which may impact the overall intimacy of the experience. Some guests find this less personal, but the guides’ knowledge and friendliness help make the outing enjoyable.

The timing of the experience, typically scheduled in the evening, allows for prime stargazing conditions. The duration of one hour strikes a good balance—long enough to see multiple celestial sights but short enough to keep the experience engaging and manageable in cool weather.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Experiences

While this tour is focused on stargazing with a telescope and learning about constellations, other nearby options include UTV tours, horseback rides, or canyon explorations. The price point of $20 makes it an accessible introductory experience, especially for families or first-time stargazers.

The informative guides and clear emphasis on the Utah Milky Way distinguish this experience from more casual or less guided alternatives. It’s ideal for those seeking an educational night under the stars rather than a photography-focused outing.

Who Will Appreciate This Experience Most

This stargazing trip suits visitors interested in astronomy, families with children, and anyone seeking a peaceful night in nature. The knowledgeable guides and spectacular celestial views make it perfect for first-time stargazers.

However, those with mobility issues should consider the walk challenge and potential need for assistance. The hot chocolate and blankets make it a cozy outing, but guests should temper expectations about the hot chocolate quality.

Final Thoughts on the East Zion Stargazing Trip

For $20, this guided star-viewing experience offers a wonderful opportunity to see the Utah Milky Way and learn about the night sky from expert guides. The powerful telescope and clear, dark skies are major highlights, making it an excellent choice for budget travelers and families alike.

While the walk to the viewing area may pose challenges for some, the cozy blankets, hot chocolate, and educational storytelling make up for it. The experience’s flexibility with full cancellation up to 24 hours adds to its appeal.

The tour captures the beauty of East Zion’s night skies and provides a memorable, accessible introduction to astronomy in a stunning setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour can be enjoyed by families, especially since it offers an educational experience focused on learning about constellations and stars. However, the walk may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear to the tour?
Guests should dress warmly with hats, jackets, and gloves to stay comfortable during the outdoor stargazing, particularly in fall and winter months.

Can I see planets through the telescope?
Yes, the guide stays to give everyone a chance to view planets such as Jupiter and its moons through the powerful telescope.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour may not operate in bad weather conditions. It’s recommended to check weather forecasts and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund if necessary.

Are hot chocolate and blankets included?
Yes, hot chocolate and blankets are provided as part of the tour, although some reviews note the hot chocolate may be watery.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby