Here are some great places to view the Milky Way and the night sky in the state of Washington. These places are spread out over the entire state to provide the maximum amount of opportunities for everyone, regardless of where one lives. Therefore, we might not choose a
There are also articles for those looking for dark sky places in Idaho, Oregon, and specific cities in the Pacific Northwest.
Goldendale Observatory State Park
Located in Goldendale, the observatory is a great place for observing the night sky. With a focus on limiting light pollution and preserving the night soy, the observatory is a must visit place for those in the area.
North Cascades National Park, Washington
The first National Scenic Highway in the United States, the North Cascades Highway provides visitors with sweeping vistas, alpine meadows, wildlife watching opportunities and recreation galore. This mountain scenic drive begins in Sedro Woolley and is closed from mid-November to April. Always make sure to check out road conditions before heading out. As part of Washington State Route 20’s path across through the state, there are several unique places such Diablo Lake Overlook, Washington Pass Overlook, Ross Lake Overlook, and more for great observing.
Olympic National Park and Olympic Peninsula
The Olympic Peninsula Loop is a spectacular way to see the natural beauty and wildlife of Washington State. This scenic drive, which defines the perimeter of the Olympic National Park, is over 300 miles of mountains, rainforests, wildlife, waterfalls, and viewpoints to explore from start to finish. The area has a plethora of opportunities to view the wildlife and spend time viewing the skies away from light pollution.
Mount Adams Area
Of Washington’s five active volcanoes, Mount Adams receives the least amount of light pollution. And, while the areas surrounding Rainier and St. Helens are more frequently visited, Adams’s flanks are equally beautiful. The Mount Adams area provides a great area for viewing the sky and Milky Way.
Washington State Parks
There are a plethora of state parks, such as Steamboat Rock State Park and Illahee State Park that are really great places for observing. These dark skies provide lovely opportunities for viewing the night skies, plus have a plethora of daytime activities to allow for great daytime fun!
There are other places such as Mount Constitution, Harts Pass, and Samish Overlook which are great places to view the Milky Way and the nights sky in Washington, which deserve mentions.
Are there sites that we missed or should be on the list, any sites surpassed to be on the list, or any details that should be added? Let us know in the comments or on social media, we review all comments seriously. Make sure to come back to check for more information and check out our Twitter and Instagram to connect with us.
Your article of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks.