It's easy to cease looking for the constellations of our childhood excursions on the horizon as the city lights get stronger and brighter. However, if we can find the correct location, the millions of stars are still there, ready to awe us.

And you'll undoubtedly reach that destination with these amazing Backroads Trips. You just need to glance up and open your eyes. Greatness is in store.

Atacama Desert, Chile

The Atacama Desert stands as Earth's premier stargazing destination. With its high altitude, minimal light pollution, and remarkably dry climate, visitors can witness the Magellanic Clouds and countless stellar formations that remain hidden from most of the world. The ALMA Observatory here offers guided tours, allowing visitors to peer through some of the world's most powerful telescopes.

Mauna Kea, Hawaii

Rising above the clouds at 13,803 feet, Mauna Kea's summit provides an unparalleled view of both the Northern and Southern hemispheres. The visitor center at 9,200 feet offers free stargazing programs, making it an accessible yet extraordinary experience for unprofessional astronomers.

NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia

As Africa's first International Dark Sky Reserve, NamibRand offers visitors a chance to witness the Southern Cross and the Milky Way in stunning clarity. The reserve's luxury lodges provide professional telescopes and knowledgeable guides who share African star lore.

Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah

This hidden gem became the world's first International Dark Sky Park. The natural rock formations create perfect frames for stargazing, while the high desert location ensures crystal-clear night skies throughout the year.

Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, New Zealand

Covering 4,300 square kilometers, this reserve offers some of the Southern Hemisphere's clearest views of the stars. The Mount John Observatory hosts regular stargazing tours, where visitors can observe the Southern Cross and other celestial wonders.

Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania

As one of the darkest spots on the Eastern Seaboard, this park provides exceptional stargazing opportunities for urban dwellers seeking escape. The park's Astronomy Field offers 360-degree views of the night sky, perfect for astrophotography enthusiasts.

Pic du Midi, France

Perched in the French Pyrenees, this observatory offers both scientific research facilities and public viewing areas. Visitors can spend the night at the summit, enjoying dinner while watching the sunset transform into a celestial spectacle.

Teide National Park, Tenerife

Home to one of Europe's finest observatories, this park sits above the cloud line at 7,000 feet. The clean air and stable atmosphere create perfect conditions for stargazing, while guided tours provide access to professional telescopes.

Jasper National Park, Canada

This Dark Sky Preserve hosts an annual Dark Sky Festival in October, but year-round visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the northern lights and countless stars. The park's high altitude and pristine air quality create perfect conditions for celestial observation.

Death Valley National Park, California

As the largest Dark Sky National Park in the U.S., Death Valley's vast desert landscape offers unobstructed views of meteor showers and constellations. The park's rangers conduct regular astronomy programs, making it ideal for families and beginners.

Tips for Stargazing Trips

• Plan your trip during a new moon and clear weather. Dark skies without moonlight offer the best stargazing conditions.

• Bring red flashlight, warm clothes, reclining chair, star charts, and hot drinks for comfortable night-time viewing sessions.

• Arrive before sunset, check weather forecasts, and choose elevated locations for clearer views of the night sky.

• Give eyes 30 minutes to adjust to darkness. Avoid white lights and phone screens to maintain night vision.

• Learn to spot major constellations like Polaris and Orion. Use astronomy apps to identify celestial objects.