Apache Point Dark Sky

Apache Point Observatory sits at about 9,200 feet in the Sacramento Mountains near Sunspot, surrounded by some of the darkest skies in New Mexico. It is a working research observatory operated by New Mexico State University for the Astrophysical Research Consortium and is best known as the original home of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. You cannot normally go inside the telescope domes, but the site is still worth a stop if you’re already driving the Sunspot Scenic Byway.

What to Do

During the day, you can walk around the observatory grounds and see the telescope domes from outside. A paved path connects the parking area with the site’s major telescopes, including the 3.5-meter ARC telescope and the Sloan Foundation 2.5-meter telescope. Signs explain what the instruments are used for. Apache Point occasionally hosts public open houses with telescope tours, astronomy talks, and demonstrations. These events are much more involved than a normal visit and usually require advance registration.

How Much Time to Spend

Plan on about 30 to 45 minutes for a normal self-guided visit. If you are attending an open house or public event, give yourself 2 to 3 hours.

Getting There

Apache Point sits near the end of the Sunspot Scenic Byway, NM-6563, about 16 miles south of Cloudcroft. The road is paved the entire way, but it is narrow and winding in places as it climbs through Lincoln National Forest. Snow and ice can make the drive difficult in winter, so check road conditions before heading up.

Apache Point is not really worth a dedicated trip by itself, but it fits perfectly into a drive along the Sunspot Scenic Byway.