Stargazing

Lilly Bridge sits over Clear Creek while the Milky Way stretches across the night sky.

NPS Photo/ T. Tracey

Obed Wild & Scenic River is one of the best places in Tennessee to see the night sky and thousands of stars. Due to no external lighting or electricity within the park boundary, the primitive and isolated nature of Obed Wild & Scenic River preserves dark sky conditions for those that want to see space and all its offerings. As a certified international dark sky park, Obed provides ample opportunities to anyone wanting to see stars, planets, nebulae, and the Milky Way.

 

Where Should I Stargaze in Obed?

An eager astronomer can stargaze anywhere within the boundary of Obed, but there a couple places that truly stand out as being the most accessible for anyone see the night sky and all its wonders.

Lilly Bluff Overlook

Situated on a wooden boardwalk above a high rock outcrop, gaze up at the night sky while Clear Creek winds through the gorge below. Park visitors can see in multiple directions, primarily to the south, while also being able to look to the east and west. This overlook is accessible via a 0.6-mile roundtrip hike on a flat, easy trail from the parking lot.

Lilly Bluff Overlook is open to visit 24 hours/7 days a week and does not need a permit after sundown to access.

Nemo Bridge

Located across the Emory River from our Rock Creek Campground, visitors can park at the Nemo Picnic Area. While this is a great place for recreational opportunities during the day, the night sky can also be enjoyed from this riverside parking lot.

Accessible from the parking lot, anyone can walk onto the historic Nemo Bridge, or down to the river’s edge, to enjoy the stars that dominate the night sky above.

A backcountry permit is required to access this area after sundown. Park visitors can acquire this permit when stopping by the visitor center in downtown Wartburg (208 N. Maiden St.), or by filling out a Backcountry Camping Permit.

 

The Northern Lights (aurora borealis) shine over Lilly Bluff Overlook, illuminating the sky with many striking colors.

NPS Photo/ C. Goode

The historic Nemo Bridge is illuminated while hundreds of stars and the Milky Way illuminate the night sky overhead.

NPS Photo/ K. Thompson

 

Stars are seen in the sky, as well as the colors and formation of the Milky Way above Lilly Bluff Overlook.

NPS Photo/ K. Roundtree

Plan Ahead & Prepare

Before heading to Obed, prepare for your stargazing experience.

Check to see if there are any current park alert & conditions.

Limited Cell Service
In the majority of Obed, phone service is limited or not present in most places. Make sure to download any maps or information before heading out or stop by our visitor center and our park staff will provide you with necessary materials.

Night Safety
As always when going into the park after dark, make sure someone is aware of your location, how long you plan to be out, and who to contact if an emergency should occur. It is always recommended to have familiarity with Obed’s roads, trails, and access points by visiting the park in the daytime. Park staff at the visitor center are always available to provide park maps and information 7 days a week, from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m (ET).

Check the Moon Phase
The best time to experience the darkest night sky is around a new moon. The closer it is to a full moon, the more its light will illuminate the sky, making it more difficult to see other celestial objects. If you plan to stargaze, search for when the moon will rise and set in Wartburg, Tennessee.

Pack Stargazing Essentials

• Headlamp or flashlight that has a redlight mode to preserve your night vision
• Water to stay hydrated
• Snacks to keep up energy levels
• Portable telescope or binoculars to assist with magnification of night sky objects
• Layers in the colder months
• Collapsible chair
• Phone or camera to take photographs