Discover Pemberton’s Dark Sky Magic: A Stargazer’s Paradise
When the sun sets behind the jagged Coast Mountains, Pemberton transforms into a celestial wonderland. Far from the glow of city lights, this charming mountain valley is, in our opinion, an incredible destination in British Columbia for experiencing Dark Sky tourism. Visitors from near and far can marvel at the stars, the faint glow of the Milky Way, and even the Aurora Borealis on occasion, while experiencing the incredible accommodations that our adventurous mountain-farming town offers.
Whether you’re an avid astronomer, a photographer chasing the perfect night sky shot, or simply someone who loves quiet starlit evenings, Pemberton offers some of the best stargazing experiences combined with unique accommodation in the Sea to Sky region.
Why Pemberton Is Ideal for Stargazing
Just 30 minutes north of Whistler, Pemberton feels worlds away, yet is just a short drive, making it perfect for quick trips from Vancouver. Its wide valley, surrounding peaks, and minimal light pollution make it a prime location for Dark Sky travel. On clear nights, you can spot constellations, shooting stars, and even the occasional Northern Lights display with stunning clarity.
Best Places to Stay for a Starry Escape
Coast Range Heli-Skiing’s Yurt
Accessible only by helicopter, this secluded backcountry yurt tucked up high above Pemberton Valley gives you one of the most private and epic experiences for enjoying the stars. You may even glimpse the Northern Lights! The expansive deck faces the North and provides a stunning sunset before the dark falls. Book out the Yurt for your private group to relax or explore the surrounding ridges in the Summer, or have a guide join you from Coast Range Heli-Skiing to experience the best of Pemberton’s backcountry skiing.
Bookable as a backcountry accommodation for 5 in the Summer, or as part of a guided ski-touring experience in the Winter.
With an incredible and uninterrupted panoramic view of Mt Currie during the day, Sweetwater Lane Farm offers a secluded escape tucked away in the forest to stargaze from the comfort of the farm lawn or from the hot tub. Just a short drive from town, this relaxing accommodation includes a full hydrotherapy setup, resident donkeys and Highland cows, and a peaceful getaway for couples or groups to explore Pemberton.
Bookable year-round, this farmstay can accommodate up to 6 guests.
As deep into the mountains as you can get, Whitecap Alpine’s McGillivray Pass Lodge offers an extraordinary stargazing backdrop in the remote Pemberton backcountry. After a day of guided hiking through wildflowers, meadows and ridges, or chasing powder and ski-touring untracked terrain, you can settle in to your cosy cabin to gaze out into the expansive darkness with full clarity.
Bookable for private buy-outs or by joining groups during Summer hiking trips, or winter ski-touring trips.
Nestled in the forest near Joffre Creek (which flows from the famously blue Joffre Lakes), these cozy cabins and airstream feature private decks and firepits perfect for watching the stars rise over the mountains. Providing a cozy and unique accommodation close to Pemberton Village with hot tub, sauna, and outdoor movie set up, Joffre Creek Cabins offers log-cabin luxury.
Bookable year-round with three accommodation options with varying inclusions for many party sizes.
Copper Cayuse Outfitters Backcountry Camp
With a backcountry camp in the Birkenhead Mountain region, visitors with a penchant for horse riding can experience stunning nighttime stargazing after a day of riding historic alpine trails and abandoned Gold Rush mines. With nothing but the sound of the rushing Tenquille Creek, the crackling of a campfire and the clear sky above, this is one of British Columbia’s best backcountry experiences.
Bookable as part of a Multi-Day Expedition Horseride between July and September.
Camp Under the Stars
For those looking to pitch a tent or stargaze from a camper, Pemberton provides several excellent options for immersing yourself in secluded light-free zones:
Birkenhead Lake Provincial Park – A pristine alpine mountain lake setting with minimal light pollution, perfect for stargazers.
Lillooet Lake Recreation Sites – Rustic lakeside campsites close to town, ideal for watching the sunset before the stars reflect off the water.
Duffey Lake Recreation Sites (Highway 99) – Tucked along scenic Duffey Lake Road, these sites offer clear views of the Milky Way in a peaceful wilderness setting, perfect for those road-tripping between Pemberton and Lillooet.
Tips for the Ultimate Stargazing Experience
Check the Moon Phase: A new moon offers the darkest skies for spotting stars and the Milky Way.
Dress in Layers: Mountain nights can get chilly even in summer.
Bring a Camera: A tripod and manual settings capture long-exposure shots of the night sky, and the Northern Lights when not visible to the human eye.
Plan Ahead: Backcountry lodges and popular campsites book well in advance!
Experience the Night Sky in Pemberton
Pemberton invites travellers to slow down and reconnect with the universe. Whether you’re nestled in a cabin, exploring the backcountry, or camping lakeside, the night skies here are some of the best for stargazing in British Columbia.
Located just north of Whistler along the Sea to Sky corridor, Pemberton is a must-visit for anyone passionate about Dark Sky Tourism. You don’t need to travel far to experience the beauty.