Dark Sky Sanctuary

Comet Neowise

Moon

On March 18, 2019, the Massacre Rim Wilderness Study Area (WSA) became the 7th designated Certified Dark Sky Sanctuary in the world, which is a place that has an “exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is protected for its scientific, natural or educational value, its cultural heritage and/or public enjoyment.“ This WSA is publicly-owned land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to maintain its wilderness qualities. Located in far northern Washoe County near the borders with California and Oregon, Massacre Rim is so remote that it has "exceptional quality of starry nights" and a nocturnal environment that is protected for its natural values, criteria necessary to meet the International Dark-Sky Association's strict standards for a Dark Sky Sanctuary. According to Friends of Nevada Wilderness, the Massacre Rim WSA stands out because it is so far from any major populated areas, making light pollution there next to immeasurable. People lucky enough to venture there on a clear moonless night will not only see the enormity of the Milky Way but will also be awestruck to view our neighboring galaxy, Andromeda, with the naked eye. The above photos were all taken right from the ranch!

Because so much of our world is flooded with artificial light, most of us have no idea what we can actually see if we are in a place as dark as Massacre Rim. So it's hard to describe. Stunningly beautiful. Definitely awe-inspiring. So many stars on a moonless night that they actually cast a shadow. You really have to see it for yourselves. As our ranch is just 10 or so miles from the Massacre Rim WSA, our visitors can witness the amazing stars and Milky Way right from the comfort of the ranch without having to travel out to the Rim. Take advantage of our dark skies right here at the ranch and nearby! For stargazers, the photo above of the Andromeda Galaxy was taken by one of our guests during his visit.

For more details about the Massacre Rim, please click on this link: Massacre Rim Dark Sky

New Moon Schedules:
2024: Jan 11; Feb 9; Mar 10; Apr 8; May 7; Jun 6; Jul 5; Aug 4; Sep 2; Oct 2; Nov 1; Nov 30; Dec 30
2025: Jan 29; Feb 27; Mar 29; Apr 27; May 26; Jun 25; Jul 24; Aug 22; Sep 21; Oct 21; Nov 19; Dec 19