The brand leads the industry in environmental stewardship with the first-ever lodging property certified by DarkSky International
DENVER, CO. (August 8, 2023) – Under Canvas—the leader in upscale, outdoor hospitality—announced today that its Under Canvas Lake Powell – Grand Staircase property is the first-ever DarkSky-certified Resort in the world, a distinction that demonstrates its environmental leadership in the hospitality industry.
DarkSky International, formerly the International Dark-Sky Association, is the recognized global authority on light pollution, leading a worldwide movement to protect the night skies for present and future generations. Established in 1988, it is committed to restoring the nighttime environment and protecting communities from light pollution around the globe.
DarkSky’s award-winning International DarkSky Places (IDSP) program recognizes and promotes excellent stewardship of the night sky. The program has recognized Under Canvas Lake Powell – Grand Staircase for its distinguished sky quality, which is preserved through on-site dark-sky approved lighting and its commitment to protecting and preserving the nighttime environment through conscientious design, operations, and guest education.
Perched on a canyon rim plateau with its own on-site slot canyon and sweeping views, Under Canvas Lake Powell – Grand Staircase reflects the awe-inspiring splendor of the American Southwest. Located just 14 miles from Arizona’s main Lake Powell marina, it features safari-inspired tent accommodations, upscale amenities, complimentary programming including stargazing, and easy access to an array of thrilling outdoor activities. Named one of the Best Hotels in Utah by Travel + Leisure, and one of the Hottest New Hotels by TripAdvisor’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Under Canvas Lake Powell – Grand Staircase offers the perfect combination of beauty, comfort, and adventure in nature.
Under Canvas is a leader in the hospitality industry in terms of commitment to sustainability practices and advocacy of the natural environment. This is demonstrated through its Mindful Approach, a cornerstone of the brand mission that comes to life through its low-impact development initiatives, resource conservation efforts, and partnerships with organizations such as DarkSky International and The Nature Conservancy (TNC).
In partnership with DarkSky, Under Canvas has developed the DarkSky Resort certification program to set the standard in the travel industry and encourage hospitality companies to join in its efforts to protect the night sky from light pollution, which continues to grow at an alarming rate.
According to DarkSky, light pollution is increasing worldwide by nearly 10 percent per year. In fact, today, eight out of 10 people live under a light-polluted night sky. This problem affects not only humans’ ability to view the stars; it also disrupts wildlife, impacts human health, wastes money and energy, and contributes to climate change. Through Under Canvas’ efforts to minimize light pollution, the brand is leading the way to support the environment and protect the night sky.
ABOUT UNDER CANVAS
Under Canvas is the ultimate outdoor destination hospitality experience. Its upscale, safari-style accommodations perfectly embrace their natural surroundings while featuring indoor luxuries, allowing everyone to discover their outdoor self in comfort and style. Under Canvas currently operates eleven locations in West Yellowstone, North Yellowstone-Paradise Valley and Glacier in Mont., Moab, Zion, Lake Powell-Grand Staircase and Bryce Canyon in Utah, Mount Rushmore in SD, Great Smoky Mountains in Tenn., Grand Canyon in Ariz., and Acadia in Maine. For more information, please visit www.undercanvas.com