Dark Sky

NIGHT SKY VIEWING

Wildcat Mountain State Park is an excellent location to experience the awe and wonder of a truly dark sky! Take in the grand views of the night sky from the Upper Picnic Area Observation Point or wander under the stars on the Starlight Trail just north of the park amphitheater. See the property map for more information. Several astronomy programs are also offered throughout the year at the park.

DARK SKY PARK APPLICATION

Wildcat Mountain State Park, the Kickapoo Valley Reserve (KVR) and the Mississippi Valley Conservancy began working together in 2021 to designate the 13,300 acres of Wildcat, KVR and Tunnelville Cliffs as Wisconsin’s second International Dark Sky Park. The International Dark-Sky Association awards this distinction to “land possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage and/or public enjoyment.” The application process requires a sky quality survey, lighting inventory and management plan, community partners, and education and outreach.

By the time the application process was completed in the fall of 2023, regional light pollution had increased more than 50%, making the land currently ineligible for Dark Sky Park status. It became apparent that regional lighting changes, especially adoption of LEDs emitting high levels of “blue” light were largely to blame.

Undaunted, the Kickapoo Valley Dark Sky Initiative formed a 501c3 dedicated to taking action to motivate the changes needed to restore the dark skies over Wildcat Mountain state park and the rest of the region.

Creating a Dark Sky Park leads to a healthier community and ecosystem and includes the financial benefits from tourism and reduced energy use. Most importantly, however, it will preserving our heritage of starry skies for the enjoyment and awe of current and future generations.

You can find KVDSI at the website www.4darkskies.org and on Facebook