Fort Rock: Sunset Hike and Stargazing

Stargaze in the Oregon Outback, the largest contiguous dark sky shed in the United States

Saturday, November 2nd, 2024


about

Adventure: Join us for a night of exploration in the Oregon Outback. Our stargazing adventure will take us to Fort Rock, an ancient volcanic tuff ring that rises out of the flatness of the high desert. We will begin our evening at Fort Rock just as the sun is setting to the west, taking in the last of the day’s light as we hike through this incredible National Landmark. After the sun’s light has faded we will settle down for a breathtaking night of celestial wonder!

Naturalist Guided Experience: The tuff ring of Ft. Rock’s pinnacles rise above an ancient ocean bed and much like the geologic history of other Central Oregon formations such as Smith Rock, the area’s geology can be traced back to volcanic activity. It is an area that is locally referred to as the Sagebrush Ocean, a stunning piece of America’s landscape filled with raptors, coyotes and cowboys. The area is also home to some of the oldest evidence of human civilization in North America. Fort Rock is an absolutely incredible stargazing destination, lying just north of the newly designated Oregon Outback Dark Sky Sanctuary. The Oregon Outback as a whole, is the largest contiguous dark sky shed in the United States, boasting some of the best stargazing in the entire world. That, coupled with new moon phase will make this night truly spectacular!

details

$130 per person ($160 per person with dinner)

Tour Time: Saturday, November 2nd | 4:15pm - 9:15pm

Transportation: Departing from our office

INCLUDES

  • Professional naturalist guide & award-winning interpretation

  • Adventure: Inspiring sunset hike and stargazing within one of Oregon’s most spectacular volcanic tuff rings

  • Dinner: Optional post-hike picnic style dinner

    • $30 per person, please select when booking!

    • Those that elect to not choose the dinner are welcome to bring any food/ snacks they may want during the tour!

  • Drinks & Dessert: Hot cocoa & a local treat from Sparrow Bakery.

  • Transportation: Departing from our office

PLEASE BRING

  • Jacket/ layers for variable weather, hat, sunglasses

    • Temps will drop when the sun goes down!

  • Water or snacks if desired

  • Camp chair or blanket (for stargazing)

Weather & Visibility: We are fortunate to be on the dry side of the Cascades, getting over 300 days of clear skies and sunshine per year. With that said this tour will run regardless of rain or cloudy skies. You can learn more about our weather policy here.

Tour Minimums: The minimum total number of guests for this tour is 6. We will reach out 2 weeks prior to the tour date if we do not have 6 guests signed up.

You can find all of our Dark Sky & Stargazing focused Special Events and Daily Tours here!


Picnic Style Dinner

Wanderlust Tours is proud to work with an incredible backcountry chef, who specializes in creating locally-sourced and seasonally-inspired meals to be enjoyed in the great outdoors! Our picnic style dinner will consist of your choice 3 incredible wraps as well as sides and a drink.

WANDERLUST WRAP: Natural turkey, Hill Meat co. bacon, white cheddar, pesto aioli, tomato, shaved kale & onion, Mama Lil's peppers on a tortilla

CHICKEN BBQ WRAP: Whiskey BBQ PNW pulled chicken, five spice roasted squash, chipotle aioli, red cabbage, white cheddar on a tortilla (This option can be prepared vegetarian, with tempeh)

BRUTUS SALAD: A vegan spin on the classic caesar— massaged kale, brutus dressing, cashew parm, crostini, charred lemon

For those that choose the picnic style dinner, you will receive an additional email after booking where you will be able to choose your desired wrap, add any dietary restrictions, etc.


Daily Tours that feature Stargazing

Starlight & Moonlight Canoe Tour

Starlight Snowshoe Tour

Starlight Cave Tour

Bonfire on the Snow Snowshoe Tour


Join Waitlist

Please fill out the form below and we will reach out if space becomes available!