THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT.
Experience an unforgettable evening in Southern Oregon where adventure and conservation come together! Hosted by Applegate After Dark & the Applegate Partnership & Watershed Council, this special celebration of Southern Oregon’s dark skies is part of the 2026 Oregon Outdoor Recreation Summit, organized by the Oregon Trails Coalition.
Overview:
Ride the provided shuttle to the picturesque USFS Grouse Gap Shelter on Mt. Ashland. Those wanting to stretch their legs can hop off at a trailhead for a 2-mile sunset stroll along an easy stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail, or you can ride to the venue and chill out around the campfire or enjoy a short hike of your choosing. All options offer breathtaking views of the Siskiyou Mountains and Mt. Shasta.
At the shelter, there will be a daylight demonstration of an advanced electronic (smart) telescope, observing distant landscapes (such as Mt. Shasta) and possibly wildlife as the sun sets. Once everyone has gathered at the shelter we will enjoy dinner and refreshments sponsored by the Applegate Partnership & Watershed Council during an informative session about Oregon’s dark sky initiatives, learning how individuals and communities can help protect our night skies.
Once darkness has fallen, enjoy a moon and star viewing party with binoculars and the smart telescope to take back memories of your adventure, offering interactive opportunities for nature lovers, astronomy enthusiasts, outdoor recreation outfitters, and anyone seeking a distinctive outdoor experience.
Celebrate Oregon’s natural beauty and the wonders above with inspiration and hands-on learning in a spectacular setting.
Registration for the Oregon Outdoor Recreation Summit is required to attend this event. Purchase your reservation here.
What to expect:
4:30 PM: Shuttles depart Ashland Hills Hotel.
5:15-6:15 PM: Optional free time. Participants will have the choice of:
A) Easy-to moderate walk or roll on the gravel road at the Grouse Gap Shelter or
B) A mild 2 mile hike along the nearby Pacific Crest Trail or
C) Relax at the shelter and enjoy a daylight demonstration of the state of the art electronic telescope, a SeeStar S-30Pro.
6:15 – 7:00 PM: Sunset dinner with Applegate Valley Wines and a Dark Sky slide presentation highlighting Dark Sky efforts and status in Oregon and how participants can support the effort at their home, place of business or community. (Note: Sunset is ~6:30PM on this date)
7:00 – 8:15 PM: Guided Moon/Star Party featuring the SeeStar S-30Pro (binoculars will also be available for viewing).
8:15 PM: Depart for Ashland Hills Hotel returning by 9:00
Participants will have the option to take a short hike in the area, or be dropped off at the venue to enjoy the scenery and socialize. Applegate After Dark will provide a map with contact and other useful information. Cell service and accessible vault toilets are available at the shelter.
Come Prepared! It will be chilly once the sun goes down. Bring a warm coat, hat and gloves.
Getting there:
Shuttles depart the Ashland Hills Event Center starting at 4:30 PM and will return by 9:00 PM. More details to follow!