Glacier & Waterton Declared an International Dark Sky Park

WEST GLACIER, Mont. [August 12, 2021] – Today, Waterton Lakes National Park (Alberta, Canada) and Glacier National Park (Montana, USA) are proud to announce that they have received full certification as an International Dark Sky Park, after meeting the International Dark Sky Association (IDA) outdoor lighting requirements.

Waterton-Glacier International Dark Sky Park has installed dark sky-friendly lighting while ensuring lighting used is necessary for public safety. These lights and fixtures reduce the harmful impacts of artificial lighting on wildlife, protect human health and preserve night skies for optimal viewing.

Parks Canada is adding to its reputation as an international leader in the preservation of night skies with this certification in Waterton Lakes National Park. In 2021, new LED streetlights were installed in Waterton Lakes in accordance with Parks Canada outdoor lighting guidelines and IDA standards. This completed the requirements for certification as a dark sky park. Waterton Lakes’ new streetlights feature a custom LED colour temperature, PC Amber (1650K). Parks Canada will continue to replace park lighting with these new LEDs over time. With this certification, Waterton Lakes joins 12 other Parks Canada-administered places with dark sky designations.

In Glacier National Park, new LED streetlights were installed in the West Glacier headquarters area and park residences received either new, dark sky-friendly fixtures and LED bulbs, or simply had the existing bulbs replaced. Additionally, replacement fixtures have been purchased for the East Glacier, St. Mary, and Many Glacier areas of the park for installation later this year.

Dark Sky Park certification helps raise awareness about light pollution and highlights how Waterton-Glacier International Dark Sky Park is reducing the impacts of outdoor lighting. It also provides opportunities for visitors to experience the night sky at its best in both parks.