Gateway to the Stars Returns to Elk Island National Park Saturdays in October

Thirty-five minutes east of Edmonton, the city glow fades out and the sky fills in with more stars than you knew were up there. Elk Island National Park sits in the heart of the Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve, and this October, Parks Canada is building a campfire and inviting you to look up.

Gateway to the Stars runs four Saturday nights, from 9 to 10 pm and brings you to the heart of the Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve, about 35 minutes east of Edmonton. Away from the city glow, you'll see far more stars than most of us ever get to.

What is Gateway to the Stars at Elk Island National Park?

This introductory stargazing program is led by a Parks Canada interpreter. You'll learn to read a star chart, then use the Big Dipper as your starting point to hop from constellation to constellation, picking up the cultural stories behind them as you go.

Everything happens seated around a campfire, with no telescopes involved. That keeps it relaxed and easy for first-timers and families. The site is about 300 metres up a paved hill from the Astotin Lake parking lot.

Bring a headlamp, dress warmer than you think you need for an October night, and pack a thermos of something hot. Tickets are $18.50 per person, and registration is required by phone at 780-922-5790. You'll also need a valid park pass on top of the program fee.

Buy Tickets for Gateway to the Stars at Elk Island National Park