Earth and Sky Adventures

Location of Sweet Run State Park in Virginia

Where

Sweet Run State Park, 11661 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro, VA 20132.
Interpretive Center

When

Sept. 27, 2025. 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Experience the sights and sounds of the park at sunset with a leisurely guided hike, starting from the main parking lot at 6:30 p.m. The Interpretive Center will be open between 6:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. to enjoy a glow-in-the-dark planet scavenger hunt and learn about the importance of dark skies. At 8:00 p.m. we will gather behind the Interpretive Center for members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (NOVAC) to orient us to the night sky and offer telescopic views of planets, galaxies, nebulae, and other wonders. Red cellophane and rubber bands will be provided to cover flashlights. Bring a blanket or chair and your curiosity and prepare to be star struck! Check the park website for weather-related program changes.

astronomers lined up with telescopes

About National Public Lands Day

Virginia State Parks celebrates National Public Lands Day each September by inviting volunteers and visitors to take part in the largest single-day volunteer effort for public lands in the country. Join in preserving and enhancing the natural beauty of the state’s public lands through a variety of hands-on activities, including trail maintenance, tree plantings, invasive species removal, litter clean-ups and educational programs on the importance of conservation. Parking fees are waived at most Virginia State Parks for National Public Lands Day (excludes Grayson Highlands and the admission fee at Natural Bridge and Southwest Virginia Museum).

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-668-6230
Email Address: sweetrun@dcr.virginia.gov