My Bucket List Item Came To The HohnStead!
Photographing Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) at The HohnStead Glamping Cabins in Bonner, Montana
Ever since I was little, my father told me stories of working in some remote part of the USSR where he was able to observe the incredible and magical Aurora Borealis aka The Northern Lights.
As a kid, growing up without the Internet, or HD footage, we could only imagine what Northern Lights would actually look like, so I wondered:
Is it a defined image in the sky?
Does it last long?
Is it always one color?
Does it move slowly or quickly?
Does it have to be very cold to see it?
Is it scary/like an explosion in the universe?
At that time, dreaming of anything seemed like a far-fetched idea, so it never occurred to me to put it on my Bucket List for later in life.
After moving to America, I realized I was a bit closer to observing this natural wonder, maybe via a trip to Canada or somewhere equally cold. We traveled a bit, mostly to Disney World in Florida, checking off a pretty cool childhood dream, but nope, there were no Northern Lights in Orlando.
It would be at least 10 more years before I started working abroad and traveling the world on my own. Seeing other travelers and fellow photographers make special trips to Sweden and Norway to catch Aurora, often coming back with mediocre images and feeling like money was wasted.
My curiosity grew stronger and stronger.
Once, at a Farmer’s Market in Montana, I met a photographer who worked and photographed Glacier National Park.
“No way! Glacier has Aurora Borealis!” I exclaimed.
“Sure, but you have to be near or at the park on the night of,” he said.
Well, it’s only 2.5 hours away from our Montana property and maybe one day I’ll make the drive, I thought, but in reality, I knew that I never would.
I don’t like driving very much AND I definitely don’t like driving the windy roads of Montana at night, watching out for deer, mountain goats, and other critters that come down to the pavement to lick off the salt.
“The aurora australis, or Southern Lights, is the aurora borealis’ counterpart in the southern hemisphere.”
Earlier this May, the Aurora Borealis came to Montana and was visible in Missoula and nearby towns, BUT we had no idea, so we slept through it just to enviously read all the excited photographers and observers who caught it.
I was so annoyed with myself. Northern Lights came here and all I had to do was look outside. No need to drive or get a National Park permit, just open the door and look up….
By this point, I’ve officially put the Northern Lights on my Bucket List in the hopes that the stars will align and I’ll get to either watch them or photograph them or even both! Fingers crossed!
Aurora Borealis at The HohnStead.
Shot with Fuji X-T5, 18-55mm 2.8 lens.
Settings: ISO 6400, f4, 15 sec. Edited in Snapseed
I didn’t have to wait too long because this week, we had not one but two sightings of them in this part of the world!
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that I missed the first one.
Slept through like a 39 y.o. baby :)
But the second time the news again posted about a “Severe Solar Storm To Light Up Large Part of The U.S.,” and I was ready!
With camera batteries charged, memory card in, and tripod ready, I walked outside around 11 pm and walked towards an open field near the A-frame cabin. All I saw were white, whispy clouds, some stars in the sky, and then a noisy whoosh in the bushes nearby.
What is a girl in the woods to do?
I growled loudly in that direction (hoping to sound scarier than whatever was hiding in the bush), I backed up towards the Commons Area and felt safer shooting from near there.
Again, I wasn’t sure if what I was seeing was just clouds or WAIT!
They are moving quickly, appearing and disappearing on a whim. At times it felt like the sky was pulsating with white puffy things forming like quick pimples in the sky, then disappearing again.
“I guess I’m seeing Aurora, but man, is it UNDERWHELMING,” I thought.
Where are the vivid colors? or the shapes?
Cue the assistance of a long-exposure camera!
It was only IN the camera that I began to see THE MAGIC of that moment.
The colors were green, pink, purple, and even blue, and all I saw was black and white with my naked eyes.
And that is where I lost myself.
Sometimes, when photographing, I get so caught up in the moment, changing settings, composition, position, location, etc. I forget about time, or the fact that it was almost midnight and my hands were feeling chilly. I forgot about that scary sound in the woods and kept walking around through the dark in search of a better angle. I forgot about even the fact that I should have just stopped and looked up to appreciate the magic, no matter how much BETTER IT LOOKED IN THE CAMERA.
After about 60 photos of 15-second exposures each, I was satisfied with my results, saving editing them for the morning, when the excitement and the eyes would be fresh.
Check out my results below, and comment below what you think.
Is it a defined image in the sky? Nope, it changes almost every second, blink and you’ll miss it.
Does it last long? Not sure, I was there for an hour but I’ve heard other photographers stayed up past 3 am still shooting it.
Is it always one color? Nope, as you can see, after adjusting brightness and Luminance, there are so many different colors at play. So a naked eye or a phone may not see the entire spectrum.
Does it move slowly or quickly? Sometimes slowly, sometimes fast.
Does it have to be very cold to see it? Nope, and that’s the best part! Save yourself a trip to frigid Northern countries, when you can enjoy Aurora with just a light sweatshirt in some parts of the world (come to Montana :)
Is it scary/like an explosion in the universe? It’s quite unusual to see such changes in the night sky, but after a few moments, you get used to it and start to appreciate its glory.
It feels so good to tick Aurora Borealis off the list and pick a new Bucket List item to look forward to.
Did you know that The HohnStead Glamping Cabins have very little light pollution?
This makes Stargazing, observing the Milky Way, and the Northern Lights very easy, compared to being in or near a city.
Of course, we can’t ALWAYS guarantee an incredible Stellar Experience while here, but if you stay a few nights, you might just luck out!
We can’t wait to host you in the woods!
- Alla and Garrett
The HohnStead Glamping Cabins in Bonner, Montana
30 Best Girls Weekend Getaway Ideas near Missoula, Montana
From dispensary hopping to visiting galleries, check out these 30 ideas for an unforgettable girls getaway near Missoula, Montana
Are you and your girlfriends craving an unforgettable weekend escape packed with adventure, relaxation, and endless opportunities to bond? Look no further! Picture this: a weekend immersed in nature, where the scent of pine fills the air, the stars sparkle overhead, and the only sounds are laughter and crackling campfires. From invigorating hikes to cozy campfire nights, this ultimate girls' getaway list has it all.
hiking
Embark on an adventure like no other as you explore the great outdoors with your best friends and your pets by your side. Imagine walking through lush forest, being guided by a map or an All Trails App and reveling in the breathtaking views from mountaintop vistas. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a novice explorer, surrounding Missoula is a huge variety of trails, check out our list of 13 pet-friendly hikes near Missoula to get you started.
chopping wood
How about adding a touch of rustic charm to your girls' getaway weekend with some wood chopping action? Imagine you and your pals rolling up your sleeves, axes in hand, ready to conquer some logs! It's all about strength, teamwork, and maybe a bit of friendly competition to see who can split the most wood. Whether you're beginners or seasoned choppers, it's sure to be a memorable experience filled with laughter and maybe a few splinters. Plus, it's a great way to connect with nature and unleash your inner lumber(jack)jill.
The Hohnstead guests enjoying Scavenger Hunt active station #1 - chopping wood.
horseback riding
How about spicing up your girls' getaway weekend with a bit of horseback riding fun? Imagine you and your crew gearing up, all set to explore the great outdoors on horseback! It's all about enjoying the ride, soaking in the scenic views, and feeling the breeze as you trot along the trails. Whether you're pros or just giving it a go, it's bound to be a laid-back adventure filled changing terrain, crossing a river, and maybe a few "yeehaws!" Plus, it's a perfect way to connect with nature and let your inner cowgirl shine. We love recommending Cheff Ranch in Charlo, Montana (only 1 hr 25 mins from the HohnStead)
Archery
How about adding a bit of adventure to your girls' getaway weekend with some archery fun? Picture this: you and your crew standing in the woods, bows in hand, ready to unleash your inner Katniss! Whether you're hitting bullseyes or just enjoying the thrill of the sport, it's sure to be a blast. Like Chopping Wood, Archery is a part of The HohnStead’s Scavenger Hunt Hike and Challenge which is free for all the staying guests (or $45 for non-staying guests booked via Airbnb Experiences)
stargazing
As night falls, prepare to be mesmerized by the wonders of the universe during a stargazing session under the clear, Montana sky. With very little light pollution to obscure the view, you'll witness a celestial spectacle unlike any other, sparking awe and wonder in each of you. The HohnStead’s location is perfect for stargazing and star bathing, check out why.
dancing + live music
For those seeking a touch of culture and entertainment, why not indulge in a night out on the town? Dance the night away at a local concert, immersing yourselves in the vibrant music scene and creating memories that will last a lifetime. The closest live music venue near The HohnStead is Kettlehouse Amphitheater, which is a Top 10 outdoor venue in the country as well as a brewery. Yes, its a match made in heaven and only 15 minutes away!
Other Live Music venues near Missoula include:
The Wilma - #2 in Best of Missoula Concert Venues 2023.
Sunrise Saloon - voted 1st place in Dancing and 3rd place in Live Music in Best of Missoula 2023.
Other places to dance:
Union Club and The Badlander.
take turns cooking for each other
For a fantastic girls' weekend, especially if you're all passionate about food, consider dedicating some time to taking turns cooking for one another. All you need is a cabin rental or an Airbnb with a well-equipped kitchen to enjoy quality time together while preparing and savoring mouthwatering meals. Rotate roles and delight each other with your favorite dishes, creating unforgettable culinary experiences. The HohnStead’s full kitchen in the Commons Area is a perfect place to cook, connect, and enjoy each other!
Scavenger Hunt
Get ready for an epic girls' getaway activity: a Scavenger hunt through the woods! Picture this: a thrilling 2-mile hike with six action-packed stations along the way. You'll channel your inner lumberjack as you tackle the wood chopping station, try your luck at panning for gold, and test your aim with archery. But that's not all – get ready to put your thinking caps on as you solve riddles and hike to the breathtaking viewpoint known as The Point. It's an adventure-filled 3 hours that promise laughter, excitement, and memories to last a lifetime. Scavenger Hunt is FREE for all the staying guests, or $45 for non-guests booked via Airbnb Experiences.
Scavenger Hunt at The Hohnstead Glamping Cabins Resort
campfire activities
After dinner, gather around the campfire for cozy nights filled with laughter, storytelling, and perhaps a few toasted marshmallows. Share stories, reminisce about old times, and strengthen your bonds as you bask in the warmth of the fire and the comfort of each other's company.
outdoor games
And let's not forget about the endless opportunities for outdoor fun and relaxation! Challenge each other to a game of Ladderball or Jenga or simply unwind with a good book as you soak up the tranquil atmosphere of your surroundings. With so much to see and do, there's never a dull moment on this girls' getaway.
Playing Jenga at The Hohnstead Glamping Cabins Resort
yoga
Imagine starting your girls' getaway weekend with a bit of zen – yoga style! Picture this: you and your besties rolling out your mats in a serene spot, surrounded by nature's beauty. It's all about stretching, breathing, and finding your inner peace together. Whether you're seasoned yogis or total beginners, it's a chance to unwind, recharge, and connect with each other in a whole new way. So, grab your mats (free mats are available at the Commons Area Lounge at The HohnStead), strike a pose, and let the relaxation begin!
Looking for Yoga Studios in Missoula, MT? Check out these voted Best in Missoula in 2023:
Hot House Yoga
VRTX Fitness
Pole Fiction
brewery / winery / cidery hopping
Indulge in a delightful girls' weekend excursion by visiting a local brewery, winery or cidery to savor their finest offerings. Beyond the chance to unwind with refreshing beverages, many establishments also provide educational courses, delectable dining options perfectly paired with their drinks, and a range of enjoyable activities to enhance your experience.
Draught Works Brewery - 6 time Missoula’s Top Brewery as voted by Missoulians in 2023
KettleHouse Brewing Co - #2 Best Brewery in Missoula in 2023
Highlander Beer - #3 Best Brewery in Missoula in 2023
Other choices available in Missoula, MT:
Ten Spoon Vineyard and Winery
Western Cider
Nourishing Cultures Kombucha
floating the river
Check this out: a girls' getaway weekend floating down the Blackfoot River among the mountains and features that made “The River Runs Through It” famous (ok, maybe it was shirtless Brad Pitt, but this is the place they filmed it!). Floating the river is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, with stunning scenery all around. You and your friends can kick back on tubes or rafts, soaking up the sun and dipping your toes and bums in the cool water. As you drift along, you'll have plenty of time to chat, laugh, and enjoy each other's company. And hey, if you're feeling adventurous, you can even take a dip in the refreshing river or try your hand at jumping off the Rainbows Bend rock. It's an unforgettable experience that's sure to make memories that last a lifetime and literally take your breath away, because that water is cold.
Floating the Blackfoot River near The Hohnstead
reading retreat
A girls' getaway weekend where we escape into the world of books and reading? Yes! It's all about relaxation and getting lost in our favorite stories or discovering new ones. We can cozy up in comfy spots indoors or find a shady spot outdoors, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature. And hey, let's not forget about those lively discussions we'll have about our latest reads! It's a chance to unwind, recharge, and bond over our love of literature in a laid-back setting.
Great places to get books near Missoula, MT:
The Book Exchange - #1 Bookstore in Best of Missoula 2023.
Barnes and Noble - #2 Bookstore in Best of Missoula 2023.
Fact and Fiction - #3 Bookstore in Best of Missoula 2023.
Dispensaries Tasting
Hey, ever thought about doing a girls' weekend checking out different marijuana dispensaries? It's a cool way to dive into a growing part of local culture and have some fun. With weed getting legalized in more places, these dispensaries are like hot spots for learning, trying out new stuff, and hanging with friends. Each spot has its own vibe and goodies to explore, from different strains to tasty edibles. Plus, it's a chill way to connect, relax, and learn more about the whole cannabis scene, whether you're a seasoned pro or just curious to see what it's all about.
With almost 60 dispensaries in Missoula, here are a few recommendations:
Flower Recreational and Medical Dispensary - Voted #1 in Best of Missoula 2023.
Greenhouse Farmacy - 2nd place in 2023.
Spark1 Missoula - 3rd place in 2023.
Journaling / Writing Retreat
Regardless of your writing background, a retreat offers a wonderful opportunity to boost creativity, capture your thoughts, and put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard. While official retreats may come with a price tag, consider a more spontaneous option for your girls' weekend: booking a cabin or Airbnb with friends. Spend your time sharing literature, engaging in stimulating conversations, and carving out dedicated moments for personal writing endeavors.
Photography retreat
Adding a photography learning and session to a girls' getaway weekend can be a fantastic idea. Gathering your girlfriends to explore photography together can offer a unique bonding experience. Whether you're using professional cameras or just your smartphones, there's plenty to learn and experiment with. From capturing breathtaking landscapes to candid moments of laughter, you'll create lasting memories while honing your photography skills. It's a creative and enjoyable activity that will add an extra dimension to your weekend adventure.
Rocky Mountain School of Photography has a popular Summer Intensive that’s worth a try.
Take advantage of The HohnStead’s Specialty Photography Service while staying at our cabins.
Milky Way at The Hohnstead Glamping Cabins
Museum Visit
Enhance your girls' weekend with a touch of culture by exploring museums and engaging in cultural activities together. Far more enjoyable than solitary visits, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourselves in captivating art or artifacts while sharing thoughts and appreciation as a group.
Here area few local recommendations near Missoula, MT:
Historic Fort Missoula - #1 place in Best Museum of Missoula in 2023.
Missoula Art Museum - #2 place in Best Museum of Missoula in 2023 (and #2 Best Gallery in 2023)
Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation - #3 place in Best Museum of Missoula 2023.
Frame of Mind - #1 Best Art Gallery of Missoula 2023.
Zootown Art Community Center - #2 Best Art Gallery of Missoula 2023.
thrift flips
Thrift flips offer a budget-friendly and enjoyable activity for a day or weekend getaway. With just a thrift store, a few friends, and a dash of creativity, you're all set for a fun adventure. Start your day with a treasure hunt at the thrift store, then dedicate the remainder of your time to transforming or restoring your finds into something fresh and exciting. Whether it's refurbishing furniture or crafting quirky Christmas sweaters, this activity promises hours of entertainment and creativity.
A few thrifty recommendations around Missoula, MT:
Montana Antique Mall - #1 place in Best of Missoula 2023 (Best Antiques)
The Prairie Vintage Market - #2 place in Best of Missoula 2023 (Best Antiques)
Home ReSource - #3 place in Best of Missoula 2023 (Best Antiques)
YWCA Secret Seconds - #1 Best Thrift Store in Missoula in 2023.
ReStyle Clothing Exchange - #2 Best Thrift Store in Missoula in 2023.
Betty V Vintage - #3 Best Thrift Store in Missoula in 2023.
kayaking / canoeing
Spend an exhilarating weekend exploring a river or a lake, whether it's a fast-paced and rocky journey or a leisurely meandering experience, tailored to your preferences and appetite for adventure. Either way, you'll have the opportunity to bond with friends, admire breathtaking waterfront landscapes, and enjoy picnics or camping in stunning locations along the way.
Our favorite smaller lakes for kayaking near Missoula, MT:
Upsata Lake
Seeley Lake
Salmon Lake
Holland Lake
biking
Embark on a weekend cycling adventure along picturesque routes, an ideal blend of exercise and leisure amidst stunning landscapes. You'll cover significant ground while passing through diverse locales and charming small towns near Missoula. Take breaks to dine, explore, or even camp overnight along the way, immersing yourself fully in the journey.
Check out these Bike Shops in Missoula, Montana for bike rentals and tours:
Bicycle Hanger
Free Cycle Missoula
Big Sky Bikes
Spotted Dog Cycles
Biking at The Hohnstead Glamping Cabins
staycation
Consider one of the most budget-friendly girls' getaway weekend ideas: a staycation. By staying local, you can cut out expensive travel costs while supporting nearby businesses and hotels. It's also an opportunity to rediscover your hometown through the lens of a tourist.
Explore parks or museums you've yet to visit, indulge in dining experiences at new restaurants, and immerse yourself in the local performing arts scene—all conveniently close to home.
farmers market
Farmers markets offer a wonderful opportunity to discover high-quality produce, support local farmers, and promote sustainability while uncovering fantastic deals beyond the typical supermarket offerings. Consider dedicating a day to shopping at the market with your girlfriends, followed by a weekend filled with cooking and sampling dishes crafted from your market finds.
During Summertime you can usually enjoy 3 different Farmer’s Markets in Missoula:
People’s Market
Clark Fork Market
Missoula Farmer’s Market
Pin these ideas to your Pinterest Boards!
board game tournament
Inject some excitement into your girls' weekend by embracing your competitive sides and immersing yourselves in a marathon of classic board games such as Monopoly, Scrabble, or Clue. Amp up the fun by organizing playoff rounds complete with prizes to add an extra layer of excitement and friendly rivalry to your gathering.
dessert night
Indulge in a luxurious dessert extravaganza, whether you're venturing out or staying in! For this girls' night treat, satisfy your sweet cravings by visiting the local ice cream parlor, ordering those delectable desserts you've been eyeing at your favorite restaurant, or inviting everyone to whip up their own decadent creations to share. Remember, on this occasion, guilt is strictly off the menu!
Our Missoula favorites:
Bernice’s Bakery - #1 place in Best of Missoula 2023 (Best Desserts and Best Bakery).
Black Cat Bake Shop - #2 place in Best of Missoula 2023 (Best Desserts and Best Bakery).
Le Petit Outre - #3 place in Best of Missoula 2023 (Best Bakery)
Veera Donuts - #3 place in Best of Missoula 2023 (Best Desserts)
road trips
No matter where you're headed, the road trip itself can often be the highlight of the adventure. Immerse yourself in the nostalgia of vintage diners, quirky museums, and serene National Forests along the way that add an extra layer of excitement to your girls' weekend getaway. Consider a themed roadtrip like checking out campgrounds, waterfalls, museums, or ghost towns.
Whitefish Lake among fall's foliage
swap night
Hey, remember back in college when sharing your roommate's closet felt like second nature? Let's bring back those vibes with a swap night! Imagine this: you and your friends gather for a fun evening of trading things you no longer need. Whether it's clothes, baby items, makeup, or even snacks, bring along whatever you're ready to part with. It's like a treasure hunt where everyone leaves with some cool new stuff. So, who's in for a girls' night full of swapping and chatting?
Coffee Shop Hopping
Kickstart your wild night or weekend ahead with a morning of coffee shop hopping! Coffee aficionados will relish the chance to taste various roasts, while everyone can soak in the distinctive atmosphere of each café or coffee shop along the way.
Missoula, Montana top favorites:
Florence Coffee Company - #1 place in Best of Missoula 2023.
Loose Caboose - #2 place in Best of Missoula 2023.
Copper Mountain Coffee - #3 place in Best of Missoula 2023.
Clyde Coffee
Break Espresso
Cafe Florabella
picnic
Looking for a laid-back yet Instagram-worthy weekend getaway idea? Look no further than a picturesque picnic celebration, complete with a gourmet cheese and cracker spread. Pop open the Champagne, revel in the festivities, and be sure to capture those unforgettable moments with plenty of pictures!
watch the sunset
When was the last time you or your girlfriends just sat down and soaked in the sunset or sunrise? Let's check the weather app, jot down the time, and make a plan to enjoy this magical moment with a drink in hand.Forget about your phones for a bit and let's appreciate the peaceful beauty of nature's daily show together. It's something really special that we often overlook in our busy lives.
Watching the sunset at The Hohnstead Glamping Cabins
So, gather your girlfriends, pack your bags, and get ready for the ultimate adventure! Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills or peaceful moments of relaxation, this girls' weekend getaway promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and closer than ever before.
Stargazing and Star Bathing near Missoula, Montana
What is star bathing, where can we do it and how?
Spending time in nature, whether in a park, in a forest, on a trail, or at the beach has always helped evoke a sense of calm, peace of mind and relaxation of the senses. Research has also supported this idea with proven results showing boosted immune system and stress-relieving capabilities when spending time outdoors in green spaces. Whether you choose to hike, swim, or camp, studies have found these activities supporting not only our mental health but also our creativity, broadening our perspectives and even experience awe. Luckily, those benefits don’t stop when the sun sets, in fact you can continue to experience the benefits of being in nature once the stars are out with something called star bathing.
What is star bathing?
Star bathing simply means spending time under the stars in order to appreciate and celebrate their beauty. Best part, star bathing is free of charge, not requiring any specialty camping gear or gadgets to capture what you see. Just lie down in a star lit space, look up and enjoy star bathing.
but
Unfortunately, with the increasing light pollution around the world, less and less places are able to witness the stars and the Milky Way to the naked eye. In fact, 90% of the world’s population can no longer see Milky Way when they look up. That’s right, if you’re able to see one out of your window right now, consider yourself the lucky few.
What are the effects of light pollution?
Why can’t we see the stars at night?
According to Dark Sky International:
light pollution disrupts wildlife (half of the world’s creatures are nocturnal)
light pollution impacts human health (increasing risks of depression, diabetes, breast cancer, obesity and more)
light pollution wastes money and energy (annually parking lots and street lights use about 120 terawatt-hours of energy, which is enough to power New York City for 2 years!)
light pollution contributes to climate change ( Dark Sky estimates that 30% of all outdoor lighting in the U.S. is wasted, contributing to release of 21 million tons of carbon dioxide per year)
light pollution blocks our view of the universe (blocking our sense of awe, sense of wander, inspiration and introspection about our place in the universe)
Without being able to observe the night sky we could not have learned about our expanding universe, navigated the globe, or walked on the Moon.
Night Sky at The Hohnstead Glamping Cabins Resort in Bonner, Montana
If you’re traveling to Montana, you’re in luck about being able to see the night sky in the Big Sky State. Did you know that for such a giant state there are only over 1.1 million residents? and our biggest city of Billings only has a little over 117,000 inhabitants. This means that in comparison to other larger states and cities, Montana’s skyglow is usually very low.
What is skyglow?
Skyglow is the illumination of the night sky with man-made and natural sources, resembling an orange “smog.” “It consists of light that is either emitted directly upward or reflected from the ground that is then scattered by dust and gas molecules in the atmosphere. These artificial skyglows cause the sky to be 5–10 times brighter in urban areas than a naturally dark sky that is unaffected by artificial light.” Wikipedia
how to star bathe
You can check the brightness of the night sky in a particular destination using the Bortle Scale. It’s a nine-level numerical scale helps to determine how much you’ll be able to see in the night sky.
You can use Clear Outside website in order to track down the quality of the night sky at any desired location.
PRO TIP! Plan your trip during the new moon and astronomical twilight to enhance the viewing experience!
Star bathing doesn’t have to be too complicated. Simply try to find a roof or a higher elevation, so as to avoid some of the city skyglow. Try to avoid being under or in the close vicinity of city lights or outdoor lights. Turn off indoor lights since they also get reflected in the pavement and cause unwanted light pollution.
Get comfy! Grab a blanket or a towel and settle in. Rest your neck and head on something like a cushion or a lounge chair.
Be patient! Your eyes may need around 10-15 minutes to adjust to the darkness, so plan accordingly.
Bring a warm beverage to help set the mood for a romantic time together or enjoy this solo mission of self-care and stargazing!
star bathing meditation
Breathe slowly. Focus on the stars that you see. Banish any thoughts that arise and keep focusing on the stars before you. If you see a small amount of stars, appreciate seeing them in front of you. Don’t dwell on how many you see or don’t get to see, just appreciate the moment of being able to take the time to gaze up at the stars. Don’t worry about how much time has passed or how little time you have for this, simply compliment yourself for doing this, right now, right here. You’re a star bathing pro, keep going!
Breathe
Enjoy the experience of being here under the stars, some of them may be faint, while others appear brighter. You can focus on a single point in the sky, or let your eyes wonder, contemplating about the different planets and constellations before you.
Breathe
If you don’t know the names of stars or planets, don’t get distracted by pulling out your phone in order to find out. Just enjoy knowing the fact that what you see in front of you is the same as every human has ever seen, other explorers, astronomers, photographers, kids and everyone in between.
Congratulations, you’ve officially spent time focused (not on the screen we often have in front of us) but on this majestic show of inspiration and awe we get to enjoy EVERY NIGHT!
Milky Way at The Blind Cabin at The Hohnstead Glamping Cabins Resort in Bonner, Montana
Did you know that 96% of US consumers surveyed intend to behave in ways that protect the planet, its people, and its resources (Sustainable Brands), isn’t it great?
Small businesses like ours sure hope that more guests and customers opt to support efforts to reduce light pollution, improve sustainability practices like recycling, and even unplug by staying in off-the-grid cabins for a change.
The Hohnstead Glamping Cabins Resort has an estimated sky quality of 21.88, which places us at Class 3 Bortle due to our remote location (about 18 miles or 30 minutes outside of Missoula, Montana). A Bortle value represents the potential of a location, not what it will be when you are there, making Clear Outside website a great source for when traveling to Montana.
Stay in The Blind Cabin (featured above) or the A-frame cabin, whose see-through roof panels help you lay in bed and star bathe without having to lift your head off the pillow. All 5 of our self-built cabins are off-the-grid, which we believe help to keep our resort dimply lit at night and perfect for stargazing lovers.
Some of our nature loving guests opt to take in the big sky from the comforts of our hot tub, placed among the trees but in a private, forested setting.
Or, split some firewood and start a campfire at a centrally placed fire pit - a perfect location for sunsets over the mountain or when searching for the Big Dipper (doppelganger for one of our favorite local ice cream chains). Check out guest favorite Scavenger Hunt Challenge and Hike we created where you get to split wood, shoot bows and arrows, pan for gold, use a slingshot, guess riddles and other active stations throughout our 100 acre forested Montana property.
We can’t wait to host you at The Hohnstead, a great place to star bathe near Missoula!
Stargazing at The Blind Cabin at The Hohnstead Glamping Cabins Resort near Missoula, Montana
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stargazing and star bathing at The Hohnstead Glaming Cabins Resort near Missoula Montana
A perfect place for star bathing at The Hohnstead Glamping Cabins Resort in Bonner Montana
Milky Way at The Hohnstead Glamping Cabins Resort