Exploring the Phenomenon of Aurora Borealis Northern Lights in Washington State

Have you ever witnessed the mesmerizing aurora borealis, popularly known as northern lights, in the night sky? A natural wonder, this celestial display has always captivated people’s fascination throughout history. The lights appear as a psychedelic dance of colors in the sky, with shades of green, blue, red, pink, and yellow swaying across the horizon. While many assume that northern lights can be seen exclusively in Alaska or Canada, it may surprise you to know that you can experience this incredible natural phenomenon in Washington state as well. In this blog post, we’ll dive deeper into the northern lights of Washington state and explore what makes this spectacle so unique.

What are Northern Lights?

Before we proceed with discussing the northern lights in Washington state, let’s have a brief overview of what they are. Aurora borealis, also referred to as northern lights, is a luminous phenomenon that occurs when electrically charged particles released by the Sun collide with Earth’s magnetic field. When these solar winds interact with the planet’s atmosphere, they create stunning, colorful lights that glow in the night sky. Usually, the majority of Northern Lights appear between 60-75 degrees north of the equator, making Alaska, Canada, and Norway some of the most popular places to experience the lights. However, you might be surprised to know that northern lights can also be seen in the contiguous 48 U.S. states, including Washington.

Why Can You See Northern Lights in Washington State?

Washington state lies in the northern latitude with a longitude range between 116.45° W, 124.79° W, and 45.54° N, 49° N. The northern part of the state is closer to the North Magnetic Pole, making it geographically ideal for witnessing the aurora borealis. Additionally, since Washington’s most remote regions have no light pollution, it makes the state an ideal destination to capture the stunning lights in the night sky.

Best Time to View Aurora Borealis in Washington State

Aurora borealis is a natural wonder and can be unpredictable, making it difficult to pin down the exact time and location for optimal viewing. Generally, the best time to witness the aurora borealis in Washington states is around September to April. During this time, the skies are clear, and the nights are long, providing the perfect backdrop for viewing the northern lights. Moreover, the chances of seeing the lights increase during the solar maximum period, which reoccurs every 11 years, and the next solar maximum is predicted to be in 2025.

Where to See Northern Lights in Washington State

To witness the northern lights in Washington state, you have to head to the northern regions, where the skies are dark, and the light pollution is minimal. Here are some of the best places to see northern lights in Washington:

1. North Cascades National Park

North Cascades National Park is a protected area located in the northern section of Washington state. It is a popular destination for stargazers as it offers some of the darkest skies in America. Moreover, the national park has plenty of hiking trails, campsites, and backcountry facilities, making it a great place to plan a multi-day trip.

2. Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is another spectacular location to witness the northern lights in Washington state. The area features some of the most stunning natural vistas, with over 1400 miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife. The forest is open year-round, and you can enjoy activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and camping during the winter months.

3. Stargaze at Winthrop

Winthrop is a small town in Okanogan County famous for its Old West-styled wooden buildings and gorgeous landscapes. The town provides a perfect setting to witness the aurora borealis, especially in the winter when the skies are clear. There are several lodgings and campsites available in the town you can choose from.

Tips for Viewing Northern Lights in Washington State

Now that you know where to see northern lights in Washington state doesn’t mean you’ll see them, too. But with the right preparation and expectations in mind, you can still have a memorable experience. Here are a couple of tips to increase your chances of witnessing the northern lights in Washington:

1. Check the Weather and Aurora Forecast

Before you plan to go aurora hunting, check the weather for clear skies so that you can see perfectly. Also, check the aurora forecast websites to predict when the conditions will be right to see the northern lights.

2. Dress Warm and Stay Comfortable

When you go to see the northern lights in Washington, ensure you bundle up correctly. Wear multiple layers of warm clothes and don’t forget to pack insulated gloves, hats, and boots. As it will be cold outside, you will thank yourself for having the right clothes and being comfortable throughout.

3. Bring Extra Batteries and Accessories

Ensure to bring extra batteries for your camera or gear to keep your electronics running throughout your trip. A tripod and camera with manual settings come in handy while capturing northern lights as it allows you to take long exposure photos.

In Conclusion

While Alaska and Canada are the most sought-after destinations for witnessing the northern lights, you don’t have to travel that far. Washington state provides you feel a glimpse of this celestial phenomenon without leaving the country. With the right preparation and a bit of luck, you might witness the northern lights’ stunning display in Washington state. We hope this guide helps you plan your next adventure to see the aurora borealis in Washington state.