Dark Sky Guides
Dark Sky Guides
5
Walking Tours • Night Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours
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9:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Monday
9:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Tuesday
9:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Wednesday
9:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Thursday
9:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Friday
9:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Saturday
9:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Sunday
9:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Full view

About
Dark Sky Guides offers guided interpretive nighttime tours and stargazing opportunities in Waterton Lakes National Park, by providing tour participants with the chance to stargaze using quality telescopes, binoculars, and other stargazing equipment. The Dark Sky Guides are storytellers that deliver personable, memorable, interpretive tours that focus on showcasing the night sky, the moon and neighboring planets, deep sky objects like distant nebulae and star clusters, the Milky Way Galaxy, constellations, and even Aurora Borealis and nocturnal creatures. Ultimately, we encourage people to foster their own personal connection with both the night sky and Waterton Lakes National Park. Join us and Discovery your Universe!
Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2022
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(14 reviews)

(14 reviews)

(12 reviews)
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
121 reviews
Excellent
114
Very good
5
Average
1
Poor
1
Terrible
0
Louis L
Casa Grande, AZ11 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
My wife and I just got back from a stargazing outing with Keith, our friendly and informative guide from Dark Sky Guides. What a truly amazing experience. Perfect time of year, perfect weather and a perfectly clear sky. This is a must-do for any nature lover. No trip to Waterton Lakes is complete without it.
Written May 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave such a truly amazing review! It was so great to have the opportunity to share Waterton's night sky with you recently. We really did have the perfect night: it was clear, calm, and crisp - and we saw a number of shooting stars and the International Space Station pass overhead, too! Plus, we had a number of wildlife sightings that night, including a boreal toad, a mule deer, and a herd of elk.
Written May 18, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Katie L
3 contributions
Mar. 2023
Great experience at the planetarium! It was located in a parks building by the falls. They had the bus parked outside with an “open” sign in the window. They a
Ternate the show but let us pick because we were the only family there! Comfy floor chairs and low chairs. Easy sign up and payment method as well.
Ternate the show but let us pick because we were the only family there! Comfy floor chairs and low chairs. Easy sign up and payment method as well.
Written April 14, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for the great review; we appreciate you taking the time to leave a review of your experience. We're so happy you were able to join us for a planetarium show near the end of our inaugural winter operating season and hope to see you again in the future!
Written April 16, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Escape44255754437
3 contributions
Mar. 2023
This was a fantastic experience, one that has left indelible marks on all five people in my family. There was still snow on the ground when we went, so we used snowshoes. The hike began with some training, and then we set out, circling a lake, stopping every few minutes to observe the sky from a different angle, to listen to the sounds of park at night (especially the coyotes), or to observe things at ground level and even underfoot. The opportunity to experience the park in darkness and silence was amazing. Kieth was a wonderful guide.
Written April 2, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We appreciate you taking the time to leave such a descriptive review of your Snowshoe Winter Adventure Tour. It was such a pleasure to share Waterton Lakes National Park with you and your family, after dark. We pride ourselves on offering engaging experiences that enable each individual to reconnect with the night sky and the natural environment.
Written April 10, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kyle D
1 contribution
Mar. 2023 • Couples
The tour was fantastic- our guide was amazing- patient and full of information about the area! Well done - I will be back!
Written March 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Your review means the world to us! Thank you! We are so happy to hear your comments about our guide and the tour. We offer two different snowshoe-based tours: the Discover Snowshoeing Tour, which is great for those wanting to try snowshoeing for the first time; as well as the Snowshoe Winter Adventure Tour, which combines a nighttime snowshoe experience with stargazing and adventure. Snowshoe tours are typically offered from November-April, weather/snow conditions permitting.
Written April 10, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lauren Johnson
2 contributions
Feb. 2023 • Couples
My partner and I went to experience Dark Sky Guides new (opened in the last month) planetarium experience. I had come in from Vancouver, and my partner lives in nearby Pincher Creek. Their planetarium is such a unique venture, a globe shaped inflatable dome, with a show projected on the ceiling, with comfortable and relaxed reclined chair seating on the ground. The show we saw “From Earth to the Universe” and subsequent International Dark Sky short on light pollution were both entertaining and informative on how how to protect our earth from light pollution and why it’s necessary. From Earth to Universe is an informative guide to our galaxy (and beyond) with visuals that will keep even the youngest of viewers engaged. We experienced this in the early days of its existence and the guide, Keith, was absolutely fabulous in answering my questions and some very small concerns at the end of the show - I would give them 10 stars if I could, and hope that the experience remains available in Waterton Lakes National Park for many years to come.
I look forward to my experience with the Dark Sky adventure tour, a Snowshoe tour and a town tour in the upcoming months!
I look forward to my experience with the Dark Sky adventure tour, a Snowshoe tour and a town tour in the upcoming months!
Written February 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you, thank you, thank you! We appreciate you coming in to support our [brand new in 2023] Waterton Planetarium experience; we appreciate you taking the time to leave such a valuable, helpful and positive 5-star review; and we appreciate you taking the time to chat with us after your visit to discuss your questions and comments. We truly value feedback from everyone about all of our experiences, as we are continually try to improve our service offering and be the best attraction business in Waterton Lakes National Park! The feature program "From Earth to the Universe" is quickly becoming our most popular show (we think it's great for people of all ages who are interested in astronomy and stargazing). And remember, the planetarium is currently open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays during the 2023 winter season.
Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience and leave such a wonderful review. We look forward to seeing you again on some of our other experiences in the future!
Written February 24, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Brenda T
1 contribution
Feb. 2023 • Couples
We were first time snowshoers, Keith was an excellent guide! Took us on a short tour around Linnet lake to show us the dos and don’ts of snowshoeing. We picked it up easy under his guidance.
Written February 5, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for the great review Brenda! We are so happy to hear you enjoyed your time on the Discover Snowshoeing Tour with Keith. This day-time tour is a great way for for anyone who wishes to try snowshoeing for the first time, or simply wants to have some winter fun with a certified Professional 4-Season Tour Guide and learn about Waterton Lakes National Park! All required snowshoe equipment is provided, and our guides make sure to offer up some useful tips and hints about snowshoe technique to ensure you have a fun, enjoyable time. We hope to see you in Waterton again in the future!
Written February 11, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Donna A
2 contributions
Jan. 2023
As part of our "Date Night" at Kilmorey we added 2 excursions with Dark Sky Guides (initially we where hoping for Cross Country Skiing or Snowshoeing but there wasn't enough snow) so we choose the presentation at the "Planetarium" an the Night Sky Discovery tour. The show we choose at the planetarium was "Sunstruck" which educated us on the structure and effects the sun has on our solar system, I can hardly wait to take the grandkids as I know they will love it. The Dark Sky Tour was interesting but unfortunately the weather didn't cooperate, it was windy and slightly overcast but Keith was amazing at showing us what he could. Can't wait for another occasion when there's more snow to step it up and try the Cross Country Night Tour. I'm happy to see they've added super refreshing activities to the Waterton experience.
Written January 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave a great review of your experiences with us! Our brand new (January 2023) indoor inflatable dome planetarium experience features a number of different shows that run hourly on weekends (and by require during weekdays). We are very excited to be able to offer this new experience - the only one of its kind in southwest Alberta! And of course, we do our best to offer various stargazing adventures, including the Snowshoe Winter Adventure Tour (when conditions permit) and the Starry Skies Townsite Stroll. We hope to see you again some day in the future!
Written February 5, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Windy Field
Calgary, Canada2 contributions
Jan. 2023
I attended a presentation at the "Planetarium", a dome tent that holds 12 located in an underground amphitheatre. A cosy setting to observe video presentations. The video is projected on the dome as clients sit is chairs that can be tilted to allow viewing of the entire dome. I saw the "Two Small Pieces of Glass" video. An interesting presentation on history of telescope and the fascinating discoveries it has contributed. As well there was a short video on the relentless encroachment of light pollution and how that affects very much enjoyed the time with Keith. Interesting videos and given the small group interesting conversation could be enjoyed. Will pass on to family and friends that your business is providing an interesting and exciting new dimension to Waterton's tourism palate.
Written January 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so very much for this wonderful review! We just opened up the Waterton Planetarium (January 2023), and are excited to be offering a brand new winter-time experience in Waterton Lakes National Park. Located near Cameron Falls in the Waterton townsite, we currently feature four different planetarium show experiences, covering topics such as Indigenous Sky Lore, Exploring the Universe, learning about the Sun, discovering telescopes, and light pollution.
Written February 5, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kay R
1 contribution
Sep. 2022
I wish I had taken pictures! We went to Waterton for a Night Sky Discovery tour at the Buffalo paddock just outside of Waterton National Park with Keith as our guide and let me tell you - it was Phenomenal!! We saw the Milky Way, Keith showed us with his cool laser pointer the different star constellations, explained the incredible things about the 400 + billion stars in our galaxy alone! The weather was cool (expected for late September) but still warm enough to enjoy and an unusually calm night (for Waterton - it was a miracle!) On our way to Waterton we saw the starlink statellites that many of you may have seen! And to top it all off - we saw the beginnings of the Northern Lights show (Aurora Borealis) - it wasn't a total show but cool none the less! My husband and I enjoyed ourselves immensley even though it was a late night for us but we had such a good time it was worth it! If you ever have the chance to do a Dark Sky event - take advantage of it!
Written September 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It was such a pleasure to have you join us for a tour that night - it really was a memorable experience (even for our Professionally-Certified Interpretive Tour Guide, Keith). Throughout the past year we have had many great Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) displays, and to be able to enjoy it on such a calm night was a real treat! Thanks again for your kind words, and remember to Keep Your Eyes on the Skies!
Written October 16, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mary W
Ottawa, Canada60 contributions
Sep. 2022 • Couples
We really enjoyed our evening stroll through Waterton. Our guide Keith, was very knowledgeable of Waterton and was happy to answer any questions. We lucked out and had a very clear night and Keith was able to help us identify several constellations, planets, and the Milky Way. It was a very pleasant evening activity. Highly recommend!
Written September 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We really appreciate you taking the time to leave such a nice review! Our Starry Skies Townsite Stroll Tour is offered year-round in Waterton Lakes National Park, and is a great introduction to the night sky!
Written October 16, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
smilemaker77
Groveland, CA81 contributions
Dark Sky is only on Sat and Sun...we are going to Waterton and Sept and will be there on a Wed/Thurs nights.
We currently offer tours on a nightly basis (alternating between the Dark Sky Adventure Tour, and the Discover Stargazing Tour), and will continue to offer a tour every night until the end of the Canadian Thanksgiving Weekend (October 14, 2019).
After mid-October, we plan to offer services throughout the winter on weekends, and by appointment/request during the weekdays.
Please send us a private message, shoot us an email, or visit our website for additional information!
Angela_Fok
Calgary, Canada282 contributions
Planning to visit in August, wonder what time usually starts and ends. We are planning where to stay
Hi Angela_Fok!
We just recently updated our 2019 tour offerings and for the month of August, tour start times are as follows:
July 29 - Aug 18: 22:30
Aug 19 - Sept 1: 22:00
Remember that tours are approximately 2 hours in duration. If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask or message. And until we meet in August, Keep Your Eyes on the Skies!
Tabassum C
Richmond, Canada14 contributions
Is this tpur wheelchair accessible
Hi there! Thank you for the question.
Unfortunately, our tours involve travel along unpaved hiking/walking trails, which are not really wheelchair-friendly.
That being said, we may be able to create a custom/private tour for you that accommodates someone in a wheelchair, so please send us a private message or email to discuss details further.
And for the time being, remember to Keep Your Eyes on the Skies!
Karen B
Houston, TX4 contributions
I am wondering the cost - how to make a reservation.
Hi,
Take a look at our website for the latest prices. Click on the "Book Now" button (found across the website) to browse the calendar for availability and to make reservations!
If you have any difficulties, please send us a private message or email.
Keep your eyes on the skies! :)