Stargazing ⭐️ ❤️⭐️💫⭐️✨

Question

Am I crazy for booking 2 nights at stovepipe wells this month with the new moon? We will drive from LV plan to arrive at check in at 4p the hottest time of the day , the day before the new moon. Plan to rest and probably go to bed after a long day of travel. Get up early see the sunrise and possibly check out a couple sites before 10 and go back to the hotel for pool and nap. Wake up go to dinner , then back to hotel to await sunset and stars. The nexday we drive to Kernville where I hear stargazing is also nice away from town.

Answer

Booking two nights at Stovepipe Wells during the new moon is actually an excellent choice for stargazing. Death Valley is one of the darkest sky locations in the U.S., and the new moon ensures minimal light interference. Your plan of arriving late afternoon, resting, and pacing your sightseeing around the hottest parts of the day is very sensible given the extreme summer temperatures in the park.

Your itinerary aligns well with the best ways to enjoy the park:

Arriving at 4 PM allows you to check in without rushing and gives you time to acclimate to the heat.
Resting after travel and planning a short morning outing before 10 AM is ideal, as the mid-day heat can be extreme.
Returning to your hotel in the late morning or early afternoon for a pool and nap helps you avoid the hottest part of the day while still enjoying your stay.

For your stargazing and evening plans:

Stovepipe Wells offers open desert views that are perfect for sunset and night sky observation.
Bring layers; even though it’s summer, desert nights can be cooler than expected.
Consider scouting nearby sand dunes or flat desert areas around the hotel for unobstructed horizon views of stars and the Milky Way.

Continuing on to Kernville the next day also works well if you enjoy dark skies away from urban light pollution, though Death Valley will likely offer some of the clearest and most dramatic stargazing in your trip.

Plan to maximize time outdoors right after sunset for optimal stargazing, when the sky is darkest.
Check sunrise and sunset times to catch early morning light at iconic spots without battling the heat.
Carry water, sun protection, and snacks if you plan to spend extended time outdoors before or after dark.

Overall, your plan is very reasonable and balanced. You’ll be able to experience the unique desert landscapes during the day, and the pristine night skies during the new moon will be spectacular.