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News Press release

Sun Valley Resort becomes first DarkSky Approved Resort in the United States

A snow-covered mountain valley glows beneath a clear, star-filled night sky. Warm lights from the resort village illuminate the landscape below, while ski runs trace the surrounding peaks and thousands of stars remain visible overhead, highlighting the contrast between responsible outdoor lighting and the natural darkness of the night sky.
 Credit: Sun Valley Resort

Sun Valley, Idaho

Sun Valley Resort has been officially certified as the first resort in the United States through the DarkSky Approved Lodging & Resorts Program by DarkSky International. This recognition reflects Sun Valley Resort’s commitment to protecting the night through responsible outdoor lighting practices, environmental stewardship, and ongoing efforts to reduce light pollution in central Idaho’s high alpine environment.

Located near the internationally recognized Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, Sun Valley offers visitors exceptional opportunities to experience the natural night sky. The resort’s high alpine terrain, expansive mountain landscapes, and low levels of artificial light create ideal conditions for stargazing, nighttime recreation, and connecting with the outdoors after dark.

As part of the certification process, Sun Valley Resort demonstrated compliance with DarkSky standards related to responsible outdoor lighting, habitat protection, and public education surrounding the impacts of light pollution. The certification recognizes the resort’s ongoing commitment to preserving the nighttime environment while providing guests with memorable experiences under star-filled skies.

For nearly a century, Sun Valley has attracted visitors seeking outdoor adventure, arts and culture, wellness, and connection to nature. Throughout the year, guests can experience world-class skiing, hiking, biking, fly fishing, concerts, festivals, and a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities, all set within the dramatic landscapes of central Idaho.

“At Sun Valley, the outdoors has always been at the center of the guest experience,” said Pete Sonntag, CEO of Sun Valley Resort. “Preserving the natural beauty of this place, including the night sky, is an important part of protecting what makes the experience here so special for future generations. We hope this certification raises awareness and positions Sun Valley as a model for how resorts can do right by the environment and their guests.”

Sun Valley’s certification demonstrates how world-class hospitality and environmental stewardship can coexist. By protecting the natural darkness of the region, the resort provides visitors with the opportunity to experience firsthand the benefits of reduced light pollution and to develop a deeper appreciation for the night sky.

“We’re excited to recognize and celebrate Sun Valley Resort’s achievement as the first certified DarkSky Resort in North America,” said James Brigagliano, Lighting Program Manager at DarkSky International. “Their work demonstrates how resorts can protect the night through responsible lighting practices, enhancing not only the guest experience, but also the health of the surrounding nocturnal environment. We hope their leadership serves as a model for destinations around the world.”

Several locations throughout the resort and surrounding area provide exceptional opportunities for stargazing and nighttime experiences, including:

  • Bald Mountain Summit (Roundhouse), offering panoramic views above the valley light dome.
  • Trail Creek Cabin Area, with open meadow views and minimal surrounding light.
  • Dollar Mountain Lodge, featuring wide-open skies and excellent naked-eye stargazing opportunities.
  • Sun Valley Resort Village, where resort-wide dark sky compliance provides strong viewing conditions throughout the property, including the Sun Valley Pavilion Lawn, Whitecloud Trail System, and Hemingway Memorial area.
  • Galena Summit, located approximately 30 miles north of Sun Valley within the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve and considered one of the darkest accessible locations in the region.

Building on this certification, Sun Valley plans to expand its dark sky programming through guided stargazing experiences, astronomy-focused events, wellness offerings, and educational initiatives centered on preserving the nighttime environment. Upcoming offerings include special astronomy events and seasonal experiences that allow guests to experience the extraordinary night skies of central Idaho.

Additional information about Sun Valley Resort’s dark sky experiences and events can be found through the resort’s events calendar.

About DarkSky International

DarkSky’s mission is to preserve and protect the nighttime environment and our dark sky heritage through environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. Learn more at darksky.org.

About the DarkSky Approved Lodging & Resorts Program

Founded in 2023, the DarkSky Approved Lodging Program recognizes accommodations that meet high standards for responsible outdoor lighting while offering guests inspiring experiences under naturally dark skies. In 2026, the program expanded to include a new Resort certification for larger hospitality destinations and campuses, advancing a new standard for protecting the night through responsible tourism. Sun Valley Resort is the first property in the United States to earn certification in this new category.

Media Contacts

Sun Valley
[email protected]

James Brigagliano
DarkSky International
Lighting Program Manager
[email protected]