Top Nocturnal Destinations in Canada for 2026: Jasper and Kejimkujik National Parks Offer Spectacular Stargazing and Night-Sky Adventures

Canada offers some of the best nocturnal tourism experiences, with its dark sky preserves providing spectacular opportunities for stargazing, night photography, and immersive celestial experiences. Among the leading destinations for night-sky tourism in 2026 are Jasper National Park and Kejimkujik National Park, both offering unparalleled opportunities to witness the beauty of the stars above in some of the darkest skies in North America. These locations are officially recognized as Dark Sky Preserves by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada and provide unique experiences for both avid astronomers and casual sky-watchers alike.

Jasper National Park Dark Sky Preserve: A World-Class Nocturnal Experience

Located in the heart of Alberta, Jasper National Park is one of the largest and most pristine dark sky areas in the world. The park has earned its reputation as a top destination for nocturnal tourism in 2026 due to its incredibly low light pollution and crystal-clear skies, making it ideal for stargazing and observing celestial events.

How to Get There

Jasper National Park is easily accessible by road. Visitors can drive from Calgary or Edmonton, with the journey taking about 4–5 hours along the Icefields Parkway — a scenic route that connects Jasper with Banff National Park and showcases stunning landscapes. The park is also accessible by shuttle services from both Edmonton International Airport (YEG) and Calgary International Airport (YYC). Once in Jasper, tourists can explore the park’s townsite, which lies within the Dark Sky Preserve, making it incredibly convenient for visitors to stargaze directly from their accommodations.

Where to Stay

• Jasper Townsite: Located within the Dark Sky Preserve boundaries, the town offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, lodges, and restaurants. Visitors can stay close to the prime stargazing spots and enjoy the convenience of easy access to various dark sky events.
• National Park Lodges and Cabins: For those looking for a more rustic experience, there are multiple lodges and cabins operated by Parks Canada and private providers located within the park.
• Backcountry Camping: For a truly immersive experience, visitors can choose to camp in the backcountry, where permits are required. These campsites provide an incredible opportunity to sleep under the stars in an untouched wilderness.

Notable Dark Sky Experiences

• Jasper Dark Sky Festival: Held annually in October, this festival is a must-attend event for astronomy lovers. It features guided star-watching sessions, telescope viewings, astrophotography workshops, and storytelling. The festival allows visitors to experience the night sky like never before.
• Year-Round Stargazing Events: Beyond the festival, Jasper National Park offers year-round stargazing tours, including astronomy-guided hikes and photography experiences for those interested in capturing the beauty of the night sky.

Camping and Fees

Visitors must purchase a Parks Canada Pass to access Jasper National Park, which includes entry fees for camping and overnight stays. Various campgrounds are available, some requiring reservations and others operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Backcountry camping also requires special permits through Parks Canada. Tourists are encouraged to book their camping spots early for peak seasons.

Best Time to Visit Jasper

• Peak Season (October): The Dark Sky Festival is the best time to visit Jasper, with clear skies and organized events allowing visitors to make the most of their stargazing experience.
• Clear Nights (Late Summer to Early Winter): For those who prefer quieter times, visiting during the late summer through early winter offers extended periods of darkness and optimal conditions for sky-watching.

Kejimkujik National Park Dark Sky Preserve: A Hidden Gem in Nova Scotia

Located in Nova Scotia, Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site is another Dark Sky Preserve that attracts visitors from all over the world. This park offers ideal star-viewing conditions and hosts regular night-sky events, including interpretive stargazing weekends. The park’s commitment to preserving the natural night sky makes it a perfect place for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the cosmos.

How to Get There

Kejimkujik National Park is located in Southwest Nova Scotia, approximately a 3–4 hour drive from Halifax, the nearest major city. Visitors can access the park easily by road and enjoy a scenic drive through Nova Scotia’s picturesque landscapes. There are also shuttle services available for transportation from Halifax to the park.

Where to Stay and Camping

• Jeremy’s Bay Campground: The park’s main campground offers numerous campsites and is suitable for both tent camping and RV stays. Reservations are recommended, especially during the summer and fall months.
• Backcountry Camping: For a more secluded experience, 46 backcountry wilderness sites are available for visitors who prefer to explore the park on foot or by canoe. Permits are required for these sites.
• Cabin Rentals: Kejimkujik also offers a small number of historic and replica cabins for those who want a more comfortable stay while enjoying the night sky.

Notable Nocturnal Activities

• Dark Sky Weekends: These special weekends are held throughout the year, typically during summer and fall, offering astronomy programs, skywatching events, and cultural experiences related to Nova Scotia’s starry skies.
• Interpretive Stargazing: Throughout the year, visitors can join guided tours to learn more about the night sky, planets, and constellations. Kejimkujik is an excellent spot for astrophotography, with many visitors bringing cameras to capture the stars above.

Best Time to Visit Kejimkujik

• Summer and Fall: These seasons offer the clearest skies and the longest nights, making them ideal for stargazing.
• Winter and Spring: Although the weather can be colder, visitors can still enjoy night sky activities, although some facilities may be closed.

Other Notable Dark Sky and Night-Sky Destinations in Canada

• Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve (Ontario): The first official dark sky preserve in Canada, known for its expansive horizon and excellent stargazing opportunities.
• Grasslands National Park (Saskatchewan): One of Canada’s largest and darkest night-sky destinations, perfect for astrophotography and star parties.
• Mount Carleton Provincial Park (New Brunswick): An emerging stargazing hotspot with minimal light pollution and year-round events.

Aurora Borealis Viewing in Canada

In addition to dark-sky preserves, **Canada is a premier destination for Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) viewing. Locations like Yellowknife in Northwest Territories and Churchill in Manitoba are globally renowned for their spectacular displays of the aurora, with peak viewing times in fall, winter, and early spring.

Conclusion

Canada’s nocturnal tourism options in 2026 are powered by globally significant dark sky preserves and exceptional natural light phenomena. From the expansive skies of Jasper National Park to the historic celestial experiences at Kejimkujik, visitors can immerse themselves in world-class stargazing, astro-tourism, and Aurora viewing experiences. These destinations are recognized for their commitment to light-pollution reduction and provide officially protected areas for optimal stargazing. Canada’s dark sky locations continue to strengthen its position as a leading destination for nocturnal tourism globally.

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