Protecting Our Dark Sky
From the initial design on paper in 2018, Beaver Island Retreat has been dedicated to protecting our night skies. From shielded exterior lighting, lights on motion detectors and timers, and by following the International Dark Sky Associations "Five Principles for Responsible Lighting," it is our goal to provide guests with an experience found in few other places around the world. Come join us and experience something we cherish;
our dark skies and the world's 23rd Dark Sky Sanctuary located less than five minutes south of The Retreat.
What are the Five Principles for Responsible Lighting?
1 - USEFUL - Use lighting only when it's necessary
Beaver Island Retreat is required to have lighting to the bath houses due to public safety laws. But, that doesn't mean we can't protect our night skies! Lighting is limited to a total of ten lights around the facility, and bath houses, shielded light under the pavilion, small solar pathway lights for safety, and only solar powered lighting inside each tent. Even the interior lighting in our facility is on motion detectors and timers. All guests are provided with dark sky flashlights so as not to disrupt others during the night.
Photo Credit: Becca Foli Photos
2 - TARGETED - Direct light so it falls only where it is needed
At The Retreat, all lighting around the facility, bathhouses, and pavilion is targeted. Pathway lights are placed a minimum of 15' apart and only for guidance, not illumination. When the sky is preparing for its celestial display of grandeur, our dark sky lounges prepare to hold guests at the perfect angle for night sky viewing.
Photo Credit: Kevin Clark
3 - Low Level - Light should be no brighter than necessary
No reflective surfaces project the already limited lighting at The Retreat. Bulbs are chosen to emit the lowest level of lumens necessary to provide a comfortable experience but limit brightness in order to ensure the least potential disruption.
Photo Credit: Cynthia Hector Johnson
4 - Controlled - Use lighting only when it's needed
There's not much need for a lot of light at The Retreat because the stars light the way! Due to regulations, we are required to have lighting around the facility and pathway lighting for safety. Otherwise, let your eyes adjust to the darkness and your body disconnect for the best night's sleep you can imagine.
Photo credit: Beaver Island Retreat
5 - Warm Colored - Use Warm Colored Lights Where Possible
Warm colored lights are used onsite where white lights are not needed. By limiting white lights, we are able to manage the impact to the immediate surrounding area, enabling intense night sky viewing at all tent locations.
Photo Credit: JM Naturescapes