The First of Its Kind: Breckenridge Becomes a Dark Sky Community
The town of Breckenridge, Colorado has officially been certified as an International Dark Sky Community by DarkSky International as of August 2025. It is the first ski resort community to become an International Dark Sky Community. The designation shows a commitment to reducing light pollution, this allows people to enjoy the night sky.
Breckenridge has been working on this for a while, inital efforts had started in 2007. That's when they adopted their first exterior lighting ordinance. The town actively pursued this certification since 2023.
A New Era of Light Standards
The town's new streetlight compliance initiative began in 2024, helping it earn the designation. New lighting standards were implemented, including regulations for shielding and color temperature. Breckenridge has worked closely with residents to update older, non-compliant lights.
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Location, Location, Location
Breckenridge, located at nearly 10,000 feet, sits on the opposite side of the Continental Divide from Denver. Its high-altitude location and surrounding peaks help block light pollution from the city, making it an ideal spot for stargazing. As a result, the area boasts some of the darkest skies in the United States.
A Sustainable and Resilient Future
The Breckenridge Dark Sky certification is a significant honor, recognizing the town's commitment to environmental stewardship. Mayor Kelly Owens noted that it supports a more sustainable and economically resilient future. Stargazing, education, and tourism are now key parts of Breckenridge’s identity. In addition to enhancing the visitor experience, reducing light pollution benefits nocturnal wildlife and helps protect fragile ecosystems from human encroachment. Breckenridge hopes to serve as a model for other mountain towns seeking to balance growth with conservation.
