Sunset depends on your location and date. Enter both in the U.S. Naval Observatory’s daily lookup and read the Sunset row. Check the time-zone label before copying the time into an itinerary. A time shown for a nearby city can differ from the time at your destination.

Published sunset is the calculated time when the upper edge of the Sun disappears below a level horizon under average atmospheric conditions. A hill or building can block your view earlier. If you’re choosing a spot to watch it, look for an open view in the direction of the setting Sun.

Civil twilight continues after sunset until the Sun’s center is 6° below the horizon. Look for the End Civil Twilight row if you want a separate estimate of when twilight ends. Cloud cover and local surroundings affect how bright it feels on the ground.

If your lookup gives 6:15 p.m. and you want half an hour to set up, aim to arrive by 5:45 p.m. Allow extra time for parking or walking. For an evening hike, use a turnaround time based on how long the return takes and carry a light in case you’re delayed.