Celebrate International Dark Sky Week: April 13-20
International Dark Sky Week (IDSW) is a worldwide event that draws attention to the impacts of light pollution and celebrates the irreplaceable beauty of a natural night sky! Dark Skies Week is your invitation to slow down, step outside, and look up. In Allegany County, the Mountain Side of Maryland, it’s more than a moment—it’s an experience. Here’s how to spend a perfect day (and night) under some of Maryland’s darkest skies.
Afternoon Arrival: Set the Scene
Start your journey in downtown Cumberland, where mountain views meet historic charm. Walkable streets, local retailers, and trail access make it the perfect home base to kick-off your getaway. Stretch your legs on the Great Allegheny Passage or explore the C&O Canal Towpath before the sun begins to dip.
Early Evening Treat: A Taste of the Night Sky
Before heading out for the stars, stop by Queen City Creamery for their limited time “Moonlight Skies” ice cream. It’s a fun, local nod to Dark Skies Week—and the perfect treat to kick off your evening adventure.
Sunset Views: Golden Hour in the Mountains
Head toward Rocky Gap State Park or an overlook in Green Ridge State Forest to catch sunset. Watch as the sky shifts from warm golds to deep blues—nature’s way of setting the stage for what’s next.
Nightfall: Stargazing Under Dark Skies
As darkness settles in, find a quiet spot, lay back, and let your eyes adjust. With minimal light pollution, Mountain Maryland offers some of the best stargazing in the region. On clear nights, you may spot the Milky Way stretching across the sky. This is what Dark Skies Week is all about.