Ask ss865 about Headlands International Dark Sky Park. Headlands International Dark Sky Park. The skinny: Designated as a dark sky preserve last year, Negwegon State Park "is a rustic, undeveloped area open for. S. The park is open from 8am to 11pm year-round. Headlands International Dark Sky Park About Headlands Trail Map. RBO's large selection of cabins for rent in Headlands International Dark. The place is very spare, but comfortable and equipped just enough of what you need. There are around 100 certified dark sky parks. The Headlands: International dark sky park. Trips Alerts Sign inHeadlands International Dark Sky Park: full moon - See 337 traveler reviews, 116 candid photos, and great deals for Mackinaw City, MI, at Tripadvisor. Clayton Lake State Park is a Dark Sky Park located an easy drive from Dallas, Texas; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and Shreveport, Louisiana. Continuing with the dark sky park theme, Headlands was Michigan’s first park to earn international dark sky status. The Headlands has been designated with the International Dark Sky Association since 2011. A number of loops are possible but the entire. jpeg Emmet County plans a $7 million building, observatory and outdoor seating area at The Headlands International Dark Sky Park. Like all Dark Sky Places designated by the International Dark-Sky Association, Headlands International Dark Sky Park offers visitors a protected nighttime wilderness to experience first-hand the beauty and inspiration found in the natural nightscape. Hamilton Inn Select Beachfront. , Friday and Saturday, April 8 and 9, and include professional birder Ed. MichiganTrailMaps. Trips Alerts Sign inThe newest addition to the cultural interpretation of the dark sky at the Headlands International Dark Sky Park outside Mackinaw City, Michigan is a 1-mile long paved trail from the Headlands entrance to the designated Dark Sky Viewing Area. Headlands International Dark Sky Park. Headlands International Dark Sky Park (established in 2011 in Mackinaw City) and the Dr. Headlands International Dark Sky Park. Rent a whole. Regarded as one of the top spots in the U. The Headlands was established in the late 1950s when Roger McCormick hired a helicopter and dropped 50lb. View this post on Instagram. Headlands International Dark Sky Park; +1 231 348 1704. Jun 2023. Like all Dark Sky Places designated by the International Dark-Sky Association, Headlands International Dark Sky Park offers visitors a protected nighttime wilderness to experience first-hand the beauty and. 1. Designated August 2011. Headlands International Dark Sky Park. Headlands Trail Map. Donate. A public park in Emmet County, Michigan. Chris Bovia Full moon over Headlands International Dark Sky Park, August 2022Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan Image by Ryan Hutton from Unsplash. Using a basic tool, Lewandowski recorded a 21. Headlands dark sky park. , as an International Dark Sky Park, that state’s first such designation. Headlands International Dark Sky Park. Read Reviews of Headlands International Dark Sky Park. Most people visit the park in the. Emmet County has a fantastic park located just 2 miles west of Mackinaw City, Mich. The rare and wonderful dwarf lake iris can be found in Mackinaw City, Michigan and it’s worth the trip. 7. While the Headlands may not compete with some of the more remote parks, its location on the northwestern shores of Lake Michigan serves up a different perspective. Trips Alerts Sign inHeadlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan. Visit a local observatory to see the stars from the 18 ft (6 m) dome and capture the heavenly bodies through a 20 in (50 cm) PlaneWave telescope. Lawless International Dark Sky Park in Cass County, with its irresistible. Additionally, Michigan is home to Headlands International Dark Sky Park , Keweenaw Dark. When it comes to finding hotels in Headlands International Dark Sky Park, an Orbitz specialist can help you find the property right for you. 10. Headlands International Dark Sky Park. Now before there is any arguing, yes, there are SIX Dark Sky Parks in Michigan, but this is the only international one in our state. Headlands International Dark Sky Park. The Headlands International Dark Sky Park – Mackinaw City. 1,660 reviews. 35,932 likes · 1,110 talking about this · 14,579 were here. What a treat to have this Emmet County park in Michigan. Show prices. The cabin is located right at the entrance of the Dark Sky Park. The 550-acre woodland preserve is open 24 hours a day, 365 days. per night. Fri and Saturday- 4:30 p. Clearwater Lakeshore Motel. The park is also a designated dark sky preserve offering stellar views of the sky and is just 9 miles from Headlands Dark Sky. The NPS says, “ Half the park happens after dark!Headlands International Dark Sky Park Twilight sky at Headland International Dark Sky Park, Michigan. A digit 1 on top of a 3 means 13:00 or 1pm. The latitude for Headlands International Dark Sky Park, 15675 Headlands Rd, Mackinaw City, MI 49701, USA is: 45. 7. The Tulip Nebula is an H II region emission nebula locSkip to main content. Headlands International Dark Sky Park. The property is home to the rare dwarf lake iris flower, and features five miles of. Just minutes from downtown Mackinaw City, you will have easy access to restaurants, shops, beaches and the acclaimed Headlands International Dark Sky Park. 2. The park will be offering free. August 27, 2015 · Feeling stuck because you can't camp under the stars at Headlands? No worries, Michigan has a marvelous State Park system, with plenty of great camping in the area. Get away from the light domes of the cities and head north on I-75 and get to a dark sky location in Upper Michigan. Although no camping is allowed within the dark sky park, Headlands is open seven days a week, 24 hours a day, and 365 days a year, allowing visitors to stargaze well into the night. Of course, Headlands is a world-renowned dark sky park that is very popular among astronomers. Northern Lights. Book a nearby vacation home for the whole family on Rent By Owner™Headlands International Dark Sky Park – Michigan. Headlands International Dark Sky Park. Headlands International is a fantastic place for dazzling views of Orion and the Milky Way. Headlands International Dark Sky Park – Michigan. Trips Alerts Sign inaaron peterson. Eclipsed moon from Headlands. Review. Eye on the Sky. The 820-acre nature park is one of only two International Dark Sky Parks located in Michigan. Spanning 8 miles of the Straits of Mackinac, it is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world and was opened to traffic on November 1, 1957. Review. 4. But the Northern Lights are quite unpredictable. When a 550-acre slice of county-owned waterfront property in Mackinaw City known as The Headlands became Michigan’s first international dark sky park in 2011, it was one of just 10 such parks in. The 2022 schedule is as follows: April 25th -30th - International Dark Sky Week -Open until Midnight. m. Headlands International Dark Sky Park is almost made for families, so at Travelocity, we have a great selection of family-friendly hotels near Headlands International Dark Sky Park that offer adapted rooms, baby-sitting services, kids club, and more. Published: Jun. org. Skip to main content. The ceremony turned out to have the best weather and we all were kind of scared the morning of because we woke up cold and to rain, but all that went away just in time for their outdoor wedding. Dark Sky programs are available. . 15675 Headlands Road. Pure Michigan listed Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Eagle River, Eagle Harbor and Copper Harbor, among other locations around the state, as optimal viewing areas. . (231) 348-1713. 15675 Headlands Rd, Mackinaw City, MI, US, 49701. Though Headlands is the only IDA designated dark sky park in Michigan, they participate at the international level supporting programming and the cultural history of humanity's relationship to the stars through their program director's. While the. 20, 30 amp and some 50 amp electric service, water, fire ring, picnic table on each site. At the time it was only the sixth dark sky park in the. Regarded as one of the top spots in the U. Maps such as Dark Site Finder come in handy when scouting ideal spots, or you can rely on certifiably dark destinations like Headlands International Dark Sky Park, located on the Straits of. Trips Alerts Sign inHeadlands International Dark Sky Park - posted in General Observing and Astronomy: Hello, first let me say hopefully Im posting in the right section. Yes, the bright moon interfered with the star gazing. Mears State Park: Tucked in the charming Lake Michigan village of Pentwater, Charles. Headlands is open every day of the year and 24 hours a day. The area is open to the public and a fantastic family activity when visiting Mackinaw City. While Headlands International Dark Sky Park doesn’t allow you to set up camp, the park is never closed and there are many nearby accommodations for spending the night. 3 in November. The park sits along two miles of undeveloped shoreline, with a. (Local time for Headlands International Dark Sky Park is -5. 5. Headlands International Dark Sky Park is a public park in Michigan that offers a stunning view of the night sky and a variety of activities for visitors. Of course, Headlands is a world-renowned dark sky park that is very popular among astronomers. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you as you explore the 555 acres of pristine woodlands, two miles of undeveloped Lake Michigan shoreline, marked nature trails and more. You can actually see the Milky Way!EMMET COUNTY — Among Emmet County’s parks and recreation facilities, Camp Petosega, the Headlands International Dark Sky Park and McGulpin Point Lighthouse were the top sources of revenue in 2022. In May 2011, Emmet County's Headlands property became the sixth International Dark Sky Park in the United States and only the ninth in the world! This is our favorite of the dark. m. Several miles west of Mackinaw City in Northern Michigan, the Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits on 600 acres of old growth forest on the Lake Michigan shoreline. Emmet County, just 2 miles west of Mackinaw City, is home to one of only 11 dark sky parks in the world. Lawless International Dark Sky Park, and is the first International Dark Sky Park in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Dark sky parks are designated by the International Dark Sky Association. 5. 21, 2022, 7:18 a. Learn about the park's features, rules, events, and tips for stargazing and sunset viewing. In fact, this 550-acre forested gem along Lake Michigan has been awarded the prestigious International Dark Sky Park designation. Group at Headlands. Lawless International Dark Sky Park 2023 stargazing dates: January 20 and 21: Open until 10 p. An International Dark Sky Park on the Straits of Mackinac Add to Itinerary The Headlands was established in the late 1950's when Roger McCormick hired a helicopter and dropped 50lb. m. The Headlands International Dark Sky Park was the sixth International Dark Sky Park in the United States and only the ninth in the world. com says "The two-track trails are short and make the Headlands an easy hike, off-road bike ride or Nordic ski outing that is ideal for families. Lawless International Dark Sky Park in Southwest Michigan. Tagged. Written by Kailyn Clay on MobileRVing The Buzz. The Headlands International Dark Sky Park, where sky watchers have gathered for years to glimpse stars, planets and the Northern Lights, has become a popular spot for couples looking to tie the. 100 grassy, open or shaded sites for trailers or tents. and one of nine in the world. This park is located in Michigan state, and has some of the best dark sky viewing in the northern United States. Headlands International Dark Sky Park Distinguished as an International Dark Sky Park, Headland International Dark Sky Park is protected by responsible lighting policies and community education supported by the International Dark Sky Association. 4. I stayed at the Beach House for a long weekend. Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan. Biere De Mac Brew Works. The Headlands has been designated with the International Dark Sky Association since 2011. Headlands International Dark Sky Park: Mackinaw City. Enter dates to see prices. 1. McGulpin Point Lighthouse. Trips Alerts Sign inHeadlands International Dark Sky Park: A Hidden Gem in the Sky - See 336 traveler reviews, 108 candid photos, and great deals for Mackinaw City, MI, at Tripadvisor. The “dark sky discovery trail” opened in November of 2012 and, as of site construction completion in June 2017, is fully accessible once again. There is a MAX of eight people allowed in the cabin (5 beds). (photo courtesy of Emmet County, Gary. A public park in Emmet County, Michigan. 15675 Headlands Rd, Mackinaw City, MI. This review is for the Stargazing Cabin in the Headlands International Dark Sky Park. 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM. Headlands International Dark Sky Park: Mackinaw City, MI. News. The Mackinac Bridge will go largely dark Wednesday night as part of the Headlands International Dark Sky Park's Lights Out Challenge. MACKINAW CITY, MICH. THE HEADLANDS STARGAZING HOUSE START YOUR RESERVATION NOW! For questions concerning reservations, call (231) 427-1001 **RENTAL FOR THE STARGAZING HOUSE IS A TWO-DAY MINIMUM** Please note that rates are subject to change annually Capacity: 8 People (SEE PHOTO GALLERY AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE) 2. The Dark Sky Discovery Trail is a 1-mile long paved trail from the Headlands entrance to the designated Dark Sky Viewing Area. September 20, 2023. Mackinaw Beach and Bay - Inn & Suites. 9 miles from Headlands International Dark Sky Park. The community hosts a variety of astronomy events throughout the year. Distance Highest Rated Most Reviews Category. Recreation passport required for entry. Review. Headlands boasts 550 acres of woodlands, more than two miles of undeveloped Lake Michigan shoreline, and is located at the northern tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. The Headlands International Dark Sky Park located in Mackinaw City near the Mackinac Bridge is our absolute favorite place to view Michigan Northern Lights. Holiday Inn Express Mackinaw City, an IHG Hotel. Thank 783debg . The place is very spare, but comfortable and equipped just enough of what you need. $0 - $200 avg/night. A fully-licensed kitchen and ADA restrooms are available, along with a stunning indoor/outdoor fireplace and a captivating open beam ceiling. Review. It's local time, in 24hr format. Size 600 acres Frontage 2. Mackinaw City, MI 49701. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. K. Ask 783debg about Headlands International Dark Sky Park. We waited for the sun to start to go down and drove over to Headlands International Dark Sky Park. Check the park’s calendar and plan your visit accordingly. Dr. Low light pollution conditions, or dark skies, is. 15675 Headlands Rd, Mackinaw City, MI 49701 (231) 427-1001 [email protected] The Headlands International Dark Sky Park – Mackinaw City In 2011, the Headlands became the sixth International Dark Sky Park in the United States and the ninth in the world. m. Headlands International Dark S…In May 2011, Emmet County's Headlands property became the sixth International Dark Sky Park in the United States and only the ninth in the world. PLAN YOUR TRIP. List. Dark Sky Camping in Oklahoma. and one of nine in the world. 15675 Headlands Rd, Mackinaw City, MI 49701. The preservation of Lake Michigan’s shoreline has allowed wildlife here to grow without the interruption of humankind, creating an irreplaceable experience. IDA today announced the accreditation of Middle Fork River Forest Preserve in Champaign County, Illinois, U. Dark Sky Park for Star/Planet Viewing We travelled specifically to this park from down state to view the Milky Way on the new moon. Headlands International, MI. Natural Bridges was the first named International Dark-Sky Park on March 6th, 2007. Headlands International Dark Sky Park and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Though you’ll find most of Michigan’s Dark Sky Parks in its Upper Peninsula, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits on two miles of undeveloped shoreline in northern Michigan and is worth a visit. Using a basic tool, Lewandowski recorded a 21. Just minutes from downtown Mackinaw City, you will have easy access to restaurants, shops, beaches and the acclaimed Headlands International Dark Sky Park. Headlands International Dark Sky Park. It’s one of only a handful of parks in the world to be designated as an International Dark Sky Park, which means the night sky is truly spectacular. 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM. Directions. T. The Headlands International Dark Sky Park is a 550-acre (220 ha) county park in the U. Headlands International Dark Sky Park. Where to See Michigan's Northern Lights in the Upper PeninsulaHeadlands International Dark Sky Park: See the Milky Way in Michigan - See 337 traveler reviews, 116 candid photos, and great deals for Mackinaw City, MI, at Tripadvisor. The gift shop is open during all events and observing dates and is open for the summer months seven days a week. Headlands International Dark Sky Park, established in 2011 in Mackinaw City, and the Dr. A public park in Emmet County, Michigan. The Headlands International Dark Sky Park is right on the Northern Michigan lakeshore. state of Michigan. Sponsored . The park is known for its exceptional stargazing opportunities, and it is a must-visit destination for astronomy enthusiasts. Former Communications Manager. Ive been planning on taking a trip up to the Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Mackinaw City, Michigan for a little while now, and just wanted to see if anybody has been there and can. Because each of these sites is within 30 minutes of Headlands, you can come out and enjoy our starry skies, then easily get. Either way, these eight International Dark Sky Parks deliver awe-inspiring stargazing. Artificial lighting is rare within the 243-hectare. S. Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Mackinaw City is inviting residents and businesses in communities around Northern Michigan, and anyone else who’d like to join in for solidarity, to. The park borders over two miles of preserved Lake Michigan shoreline. 2 or higher. It's better than usual Michigan weather-clouds! Astronomy and star gazing itself is a dying art form, so kudos to the staff fSkip to main content. There is a MAX of eight people allowed in the cabin (5 beds). Headlands, Michigan. (Terri Colby/Chicago Tribune/TNS)Headlands International Dark Sky Park. -10:00 p. The guys were getting ready at the guesthouse at Headlands International Dark Sky Park which was an easy 10 minute drive from where the girls were. Government & Business; Headlands Dark Sky Park; Recycling & Refuse; Emmet/Charlevoix County Fair; Pellston Airport; Emmet County EMS; McGulpin Lighthouse; Camp Petosega; E-News Signup. With extra guidelines and protections, the three international dark sky parks are Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Emmet County, Keweenaw Dark Sky Park in Schoolcraft Township near Copper Harbor and Dr. California’s only International Dark-Sky Community is located in this desert oasis town in San Diego County. org. At the time it was only the sixth dark sky park in the. Day trips are easily planned to Mackinac Island, The Soo Locks, Tahquamenon Falls, Whitefish Point (Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum), Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Oswald's Bear Ranch and much more. Dark Sky Camping in Oklahoma. Not only can you see the Milky Way during the summer, but. Visitors can see stars, planets, and other celestial objects in stunning detail with minimal light pollution and clear skies. Sleeping Bear Dunes. There are three bathrooms with tub/shower facilities, a complete kitchen and a conference area. The preservation of Lake Michigan’s shoreline has allowed wildlife here to grow without the interruption of humankind, creating an irreplaceable experience. ‹. In 2010 it was designated as an International Dark-Sky Park. Dr. Public Land RV Park Overnight RV Parking Dump Stations Price. Bedding and towels included for eight, but no. The park will be offering free. m. Not only can you view the northern. The Worlds ninth International Dark Sky Park located in Mackinaw City With deep dark skies overhead, the vast expanse of Lake Michigan to the west, bustling Mackinaw City to the east and 600 acres of pristine, old-growth forest, the Headlands park property is a gem. 2. Its Dark Park designation is relatively new (2020), yet stargazers from all over the state already flock there to see the millions of stars at night. Here you will find the darkest of skies. There are also star parties and special events centered around the solstices and equinoxes each year. Constellations that you have only heard about are visible. March 16, 2016; Headlands IDSP Recognized with 2017 Pure Award News Congratulations to the International Dark Sky Park at the Headlands (Michigan, U. It is one of six designated dark sky parks in the USA and is popular for stargazing. Most visitors to the park are in the area to visit Michigan’s other famous tourist destinations, such as Mackinac Island or the renowned state parks in the Upper Peninsula. Each column represents a different hour. The result caps a two-year effort to achieve the status in a collaboration between the Champaign County Forest Preserve District and the. You can see the universe as it was meant to be seen at the Headlands International Dark Sky Park, located in Emmet County in northern Michigan. Skip to main content. Clayton Lake State Park is a Dark Sky Park located an easy drive from Dallas, Texas; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and Shreveport, Louisiana. The International Dark-Sky Association designates them. Heads Up At The Headlands. Stephen C. Cabins of Mackinaw. As part of its 2013 proposal for International Dark Sky Park certification by the Mayland Community College Blue Ridge Observatory Star. Michigan Headlands Dark Sky Park - posted in General Observing and Astronomy: I had the opportunity to visit the Headlands international Dark sky park in Mackinaw City, MI. Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Montana & Alberta, Canada. While Michigan has six state-authorized dark sky preserves, Headlands was Michigan’s first International Dark Sky Park, the sixth in the United States and ninth in the world. A public park in Emmet County, Michigan. Home to the Dark Sky Discovery Trail this northern Michigan park has had multiple northern light sightings. Headlands International Dark Sky Park: Dark Sky Park - See 330 traveler reviews, 108 candid photos, and great deals for Mackinaw City, MI, at Tripadvisor. Lay out a blanket after the sun goes down and see a clearer view of the galaxy at these designated dark-sky parks. The Beach House is this funky, 1950/60s gem--all sharp angles of brick and glass and wood. 3 miles from Headlands International Dark Sky Park #23 of 41 hotels in Mackinaw City “ If you get off I-75 at the S. The Headlands International Dark Sky Park stands at a 600-acre parcel of old-growth forest over two miles of Lake Michigan’s shoreline in Emmet County, Michigan. Bedding and towels included for eight, but no. Once again, Emmet County’s International Dark Sky Park at the Headlands challenges the communities around Northern Michigan to turn off their lights so that we can try to get the darkest sky ever recorded at the Headlands. Buy the $. Sleeping pills and planes: Embarrassing tales from 35,000 feet. [email protected] Click here to follow the Headlands International Dark Sky Park on Facebook for the latest news, photos, and other updates! This entry was posted in News from the Headlands, on February 4th, 2020 . Over the course of two years, Headlands park went through a rigorous application process to secure the designation of a Dark Sky Park. Listings Map. These parks are open past dusk through the night of Sunday, April 10. K. Found out this is a popular spot for viewing the sunset (crowded) so recommend coming. A public park in Emmet County,. It's local time, in 24hr format. MichiganTrailMaps. This 500-acre state park has hardwood forests, an 80-acre lake, and plenty of camping for a weekend of dark skies. February 24 and 25: Open until 11 p. Last light was at 11:00pm and there were more stars than not. Emmet County, just 2 miles west of Mackinaw City, is home to one of only 11 dark sky parks in the world. It holds the honor of being the darkest of all national parks in the Lower 48, meaning it. Website: Michigan DNR page. #6 of 33 things to do in Mackinaw City. 15675 Headlands Rd, No Camping Allowed, Mackinaw City, MI 49701-8612. Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or enjoy looking up at the stars, Headlands International Dark Sky Park is a must-visit. All six dark sky preserves require entering vehicles to have a Michigan Recreation Passport. Choose from more than properties, ideal house rentals for families, groups and couples. Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania. Next: Headlands International Dark Sky Park: Mackinaw City, Michigan. Every one of the International Dark Sky Parks on this list is a must-see, but Big Bend National Park in south Texas is a true standout. Each column represents a different hour. Dark-Sky Preserves are protected areas that make a special commitment to protect and preserve the night, reducing or eliminating light pollution in all forms. Headlands International Dark Sky Park Address: 15675 Headlands Road, Mackinaw CityBrowse 487 authentic dark sky park stock photos, high-res images, and pictures, or explore additional northumberland dark sky park or northumberland international dark sky park stock images to find the right photo at the right size and resolution for your project. Lake Michigan, wooded ridges. The Headlands International Dark Sky Park is home to 550 acres of forest and extraordinary nighttime skies. Website. Becoming an International Dark Sky Park The Headlands became one of the first 10 International Dark Sky Parks in the world in 2011, a prestigious designation bestowed by the International Dark Sky Association in Tucson, Arizona, after a rigorous application and review process. Nature & Parks, National Parks. sacks of flour to mark the boundaries of a property he desired to purchase. This is a newly designated international dark sky park, one of the few dark sky parks in the country. Headlands Trail Map. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Nightly rate based on last price paid. The park located in Lake Superior and is the only National Park to officially close. A public park in Emmet County, Michigan. [1] [2] It is located in, and is operated by, Emmet County in Northern Michigan. By car By public transit Walking Bicycling. Many visitors make the drive across this awe-inspiring structure each year. Foster State Park: This Georgia attraction gives you entrée to the Okefenokee Swamp with its famous black water, but it has black skies too, recognized by designation as an International Dark Sky Park. There is a MAX of eight people allowed in the cabin (5 beds). 2:25. WHERE: Michigan . Everyone knows Joshua Tree National Park is a daytime must-see on a trip to Palm Springs, but it truly lights up at night as the International Dark-Sky Association calls it the “last pool of natural darkness remaining in Southern California. T. [1] [2] It is located in, and is operated by, Emmet County in Northern Michigan. Baymont by Wyndham Mackinaw City. Nov 3 - Nov 4. Spend lazy summer days on the Lake Michigan shoreline in this 600-acre, wooded preserve near Mackinaw City. Keweenaw Dark Sky Park The world’s newest International Dark Sky Park is in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula. Wilderness State Park, located just 11 miles west of Mackinaw City, is home to 26 miles of beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline, 20-plus miles of trails, a designated swimming and pet-friendly beach and unique camping opportunities. WEBSITE. The park becomes the 3rd IDA-certified Dark Sky Park in the State of Michigan, joining the Headlands International Dark Sky Park and the Dr. Trips Alerts Sign inSkip to main content. And there’s the added bonus of being able to. 5 miles along the Straits of Mackinac. (Local time for Headlands International Dark Sky Park is -5. A Dark Sky Park has minimal light interruption from nearby cities or. The observatory is a perfect place to observe the stars. In fact, this 550-acre forested gem along Lake Michigan has been awarded the prestigious International Dark Sky Park designation. The park is mainly a remote area of woodlands and meadows, from which the open skies can be viewed with. The parking lot has some red lights along it to get you to the path.