All over America, the search for dark skies is becoming a subject of great interest. An estimated 80 percent of Americans have never seen the Milky Way. The culprit: the growing glow of artificial lights.
For city-dwellers, stargazing and open skies are a rare commodity that they’re beginning to set their sights on. However, few places offer the chance to enjoy the soul-lifting sight of a starry night sky.
Fortunately, those who are willing to venture out can find the dimming tranquility they’re seeking in emerging “International Dark Sky Communities” around the globe, including the community of Westcliffe, Colorado. Dark Sky communities aim to preserve people's capacity to enjoy the view of the stars.
Several organizations are actually issuing certificates of "night sky quality" to such locations, hoping to help combat light pollution and attract star-struck visitors to these areas. Westcliffe and other starlight destinations are beginning to see a steady flow of visitors spurred by curiosity, passion for astronomy or the desire to feel closer to the cosmos.
Certified “Dark Sky” places follow a rigorous application process requiring applicants to demonstrate robust community support for dark sky protection and document designation-specific program requirements. They must also preserve and protect dark sites through responsible lighting polices and public education.
As quickly as the tourists are gaining interest in these locations, so are interested buyers. The demand for low-key vacation options in these areas are emerging and lodging is the necessity that follows. Mason & Morse Ranch Company is representing one such property – the Red Rock Ranch Retreat, which fits the bill for exactly what many tourists and buyers are pursuing.
“As the population grows in our cities and towns, we're losing the ability to see the stars. Westcliffe’s Red Rock Ranch is a perfect place for that escape. This area is the spot to capitalize on the newfound desire for darkness for the full enjoyment of the stars. We support the effort Westcliffe Colorado has put forward to establish a Dark Skies community.” said Bart Miller, Managing Broker of Mason & Morse Ranch Company.
The Red Rock Ranch Retreat www.ranchland.com/redrockis a historic, turn-key guest ranch on 469± acres and the ideal location for unparalleled access to nature and dark night skies; a refuge for anyone wanting to view the natural splendor of a dark Colorado sky. Red Rock Ranch is just one property in the community that offers an opportunity to see things that cannot be detected in most of the populated world – the night sky with more to observe than anyone could possibly imagine.
For more information about this unique property, contact Mason & Morse Ranch Company at 877-207-9700 or visit RanchLand.com. www.ranchland.com/redrockranch