Sunset Forecast for West Des Moines

For the most colorful sunsets, look for days with scattered mid-level clouds, which catch and reflect warm light. Head to a location with a clear view of the western horizon such as a beach, hilltop, or open field. Arrive during golden hour, about an hour before sunset, for the best light. Use Alpenglow's quality forecast to find the days when conditions favor vivid colors. In West Des Moines today, the sun sets toward the WNW (284°) at 7:57 PM — find a viewpoint facing that way and arrive 20–30 minutes early to watch the color build.

Today's sunset in West Des Moines is at 7:57 PM, with full darkness arriving at 9:37 PM (America/Chicago). The period between sunset and full darkness is twilight, when the sky gradually transitions from light to dark.

Twilight in West Des Moines lasts approximately 100 minutes from sunset to full darkness (astronomical dusk). This includes civil twilight, nautical twilight, and astronomical twilight.

The latest sunset in West Des Moines in 2026 is at 8:53 PM on June 25 (America/Chicago). This occurs shortly after the summer solstice.

After sunset at 7:57 PM in West Des Moines, civil twilight ends at 8:26 PM — about 29 minutes later. Full darkness (astronomical dusk) arrives at 9:37 PM (America/Chicago).