Best Places to See Northern Lights in Washington State: 1 Minute Guide to Chasing Auroras

Washington State may not be the first location that comes to mind when you think about viewing the aurora borealis, but it offers some unique and stunning vantage points, especially during strong solar activity. If you’re hoping to catch this natural light show, it’s important to prioritize sites away from city lights and with clear horizons. Let’s dive into the best places to see Northern Lights in Washington State and how you can enhance your aurora-chasing experience.

1. North Cascades National Park: This remote park is known for its dark skies and minimal light pollution, making it a top pick among aurora watchers. Head to areas like Diablo Lake Overlook for panoramic, unobstructed north-facing views.
2. Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest: Locations near the Canadian border, especially Artist Point and Heather Meadows, are popular for stargazing and Northern Lights spotting, with mountain silhouettes adding to the spectacle.
3. Steptoe Butte State Park: Located in Eastern Washington, this butte rises above the fields of the Palouse, offering sweeping 360-degree views and clear sightlines to the northern sky.
4. San Juan Islands: Orcas Island and other spots in the San Juans benefit from dark skies and the added drama of reflections over water. Head to the northern beaches for your best shot.
5. Olympic National Park: Head to Hurricane Ridge or Rialto Beach for a chance at aurora-filled skies with mountainous or coastal backdrops.
6. Columbia Plateau and Lake Roosevelt Area: The rural areas in northeastern Washington, including the shores of Lake Roosevelt, provide minimal light disruption and open skies.

To maximize your chances, try to time your visit during periods of heightened geomagnetic activity, track KP index forecasts, and avoid full moons or cloud cover. As a designer, I always recommend that aurora enthusiasts consider not just the view above, but also how their physical setting—whether a cozy cabin, a lakeside deck, or a tent in the wilderness—enhances the experience. Setting up your own viewing area using a virtual 3D floor planner can help you visualize optimal seating, lighting, and comfort if you’re customizing a space for nature watching at your home or rental property.

Tips 1:

- Arrive early to secure your spot and allow your eyes to adjust. - Use red flashlight filters to preserve night vision. - Layer up in winter months—the best auroras often occur in cold, clear weather. - Check aurora apps or NOAA alerts for real-time activity reports. - Bring a camera with manual settings for long-exposure photography.

FAQ

Q: When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Washington State?

A: The most likely times are during spring (March-April) and fall (September-October) equinoxes, especially during strong solar storms and high KP index values. Q: Can I see the Northern Lights from Seattle?

A: While rare, it’s possible during extreme geomagnetic storms, but city light pollution makes it challenging. Traveling north or east is recommended. Q: What equipment should I bring for aurora viewing?

A: Bring warm clothing, blankets, chairs, and a camera with manual night settings. A thermos of hot drinks helps on chilly nights. Q: How do I know if the Northern Lights will be visible?

A: Check real-time aurora forecasts, KP index readings (a value above 5 increases your chances), and satellite images. Local astronomy groups often share updates. Q: Are there guided Northern Lights tours in Washington?

A: While not as common as in Alaska, designated stargazing events and aurora alerts are sometimes hosted by local parks and astronomy clubs.