Previously, we discussed the International Dark Sky Association Places Programs available to parks, communities, sanctuaries, and more! The process to apply, and maintain certification can be lengthy, but with a limited number of locations it is really worth it.

In this article we will be looking at the existing places in the Pacific Northwest that are currently part of these programs, with some recommendations of what to do in the area! We will be putting a map to IDA Dark Sky Places in the PNW.

There are no International Dark Sky Urban Night Sky Places in the Pacific Northwest. The closest and only place of its kind is in the state of New Mexico.

There are no International Dark Sky Sanctuaries in the Pacific Northwest. The closest sanctuary would be Massacre Rim in Nevada, which is right over the border with Oregon.

What can be noticed is that all of these places will be in Idaho. That does not mean there aren’t dark sky places in Washington or Oregon, but rather these places have yet to apply for and receive IDA Dark Sky Recognition.

Existing Sites

Reserves

Central Idaho

Communities

Ketchum, Idaho

Parks

Craters Of The Moon National Monument (U.S.)

Friendly Development of Distinction

Sunriver, Oregon

Potential Sites

From our dark sky sites, several areas that we could see become dark sky certified areas include:

1. Goldendale, Washington – Home of the Goldendale Observatory, this city is a wonderful place to visit with dark skies!
2. Cottonwood Canyon State Park – This is the largest state park in the state of Oregon, encompassing 8,000 acres. An excellent area to stay in, with 4 cabin and lots of camping opportunities.
3. Malhuer National Forest/John Day Fossil Beds/Ochoco National Forest – Host of the Oregon Star Party, this area hosts some of the darkest skies in the Pacific Northwest and in the entire US.
4. Steens Mountain Wilderness – This area is located in the southeastern part of Oregon and stretches some 50 miles north to south. This is a desert that is high in elevation and is absolutely wonderful to visit

Are there areas that are already going through certification that we missed? Are there areas that you think should be included in the future? Let us know!