Experience a vintage desert night with cozy s’mores, a private firepit, and stunning desert skies at Rising Moon Ranch. Discover why this stargazing adventure is a must-do near Zion National Park.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most ages and fitness levels; comfortable seating and easy terrain.
Wildlife
History
The desert area has been used for grazing and mining in the past, but now serves as a protected dark sky zone.
Conservation
The business follows eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal light pollution and habitat disruption during nighttime activities.
Rising Moon Ranch & Stars LLC
Experience a vintage desert night with cozy s’mores, a private firepit, and stunning desert skies at Rising Moon Ranch. Discover why this stargazing adventure is a must-do near Zion National Park.
Rising Moon Ranch & Stars LLC is a small experiential hospitality business based in Orderville, Utah, offering curated evening and stargazing experiences on private desert land near Zion National Park. The ranch specializes in four signature offerings: Spirit of The West - An Evening Under The Stars, Stargaze in a Studebaker: Fire, S’mores & Big Skies, The Desert Lounge: Sunset Views, Fire & Stars, and Retro Desert Escape: 1950s Trailer, S’mores & Stars.
Each experience includes guided ATV access to secluded viewing areas, private firepits, telescope-assisted stargazing, and handcrafted s’mores or Dutch oven desserts. Events incorporate regional storytelling, cowboy poetry, singalongs, and on select nights, sacred drumming and Native American cultural presentations. Rising Moon Ranch & Stars emphasizes small-group, reservation-only experiences that intentionally limit guest counts to preserve quiet, open-sky viewing and maintain safety on rugged desert terrain.
The operation prioritizes guest comfort with blankets, seating, and optional charcuterie, and delivers a vintage Western atmosphere using period vehicles and a 1950s trailer for select bookings. Safety protocols include ATV safety briefings and adherence to local land-use regulations. The ranch markets itself to couples, small groups, and visitors seeking an intimate evening away from Zion’s crowds. Local sourcing for desserts and a focus on cultural respect for Native presentations support community engagement. Rising Moon Ranch & Stars LLC is registered and operates in Orderville, Utah, and presents evening desert experiences designed for stargazers, photographers, and travelers seeking authentic Western ambiance and quiet desert nights. With guided telescope assistance included every evening.
Location
Orderville, UT
Near Zion National Park
Tours Offered
4 Experiences
Evening and stargazing trips
Secluded Access
ATV Access
Private desert viewpoints
Group Size
Small groups
Reservation-only experiences
Reserve a limited-seat experience for authentic stargazing, vintage charm, and quiet desert skies.
Arrive early and dress warmly
Evenings can get chilly in the desert; wearing layers ensures comfort while stargazing.
Bring your camera and tripod
Capture the breathtaking night sky and star patterns with steady shots.
Use red flashlight for viewing
A red light preserves night vision and enhances the stargazing experience.
Book in advance
This popular activity fills quickly; secure your spot early for a memorable night.
Warm Blanket
Keeps you cozy during the chilly desert nights.
fall,winter
Camera and Tripod
Captures the starry sky for lasting memories.
Red Flashlight
Maintains night vision while reading maps or adjusting gear.
Layers of Clothing
Diverse weather calls for flexible clothing options.
spring,winter