Is Aurora Borealis Visible in Washington State?

Washington State is known for its scenic beauty and wildlife, and many wonder if they can also catch a glimpse of the spectacular Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. This natural marvel is one of the most beautiful phenomena in the world, and it has become an attraction for many tourists from around the globe. In this article, we’ll look at whether you can see the Aurora Borealis in Washington state and the best places to view it.

What Is Aurora Borealis?

The Aurora Borealis, also known as Northern Lights, is an incredible natural occurrence that happens when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with particles in the Earth’s atmosphere. This beautiful light show is usually seen in high latitude regions, close to the Earth’s magnetic poles, such as Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Canada. However, it’s still possible to see Aurora Borealis in the continental United States, with the best chances being in Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota.

Does Aurora Borealis Occur in Washington State?

Washington State is located between the latitudes of 45 and 49 degrees north, which puts it relatively far away from the Arctic Circle, where Aurora Borealis is most commonly seen. However, there are still some chances to see this natural phenomenon in Washington state, although they are much lower than in Alaska or Canada.

Best Time to See Aurora Borealis in Washington State

Aurora Borealis occurs mainly during the winter months when the nights are much longer. Since Washington state is known for its rainy weather, it can be challenging to see Aurora Borealis here. However, if you want to increase your chances of seeing this natural wonder, you should plan your trip to Washington state between December and February.

Best Places to View Aurora Borealis in Washington State

The best places to view Aurora Borealis in Washington state are remote and dark locations that are far away from light pollution. Here are a few places that you may consider.

1. Mount Baker

Mount Baker is located about 2 hours north of Seattle, and it’s a great spot to view Aurora Borealis on clear winter nights. This location is secluded and quiet, which makes it a perfect spot for stargazing.

2. North Cascades National Park

North Cascades National Park is a remarkable location for stargazing, and it is also one of the best places in Washington state to view Aurora Borealis. The park is located about 3 hours northeast of Seattle, and it is known for its scenic beauty and wildlife.

3. Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier is a popular tourist spot, and it is also one of the best places to view Aurora Borealis in Washington state. The mountain is located about 2 hours south of Seattle, and it provides a great view of the night sky.

4. Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is located on the Olympic Peninsula, and it is a fantastic spot for stargazing. This national park is known for its beaches, forests, and mountains, and it is also a great location to view Aurora Borealis.

Conclusion

While Washington State isn’t the best place to view Aurora Borealis, it’s still possible to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. To increase your chances of seeing this natural wonder, plan your trip between the months of December and February and choose a remote and dark location like Mount Baker, North Cascades National Park, Mount Rainier, or Olympic National Park. Whether you see Aurora Borealis or not, Washington state has plenty of scenic beauty and wildlife to offer.

Insider’s Guide to Bellingham, Washington

Are you a nature lover eager to catch a glimpse of the spectacular Aurora Borealis in Washington State? Look no further than Bellingham, located in the Pacific Northwest, known for its stunning landscapes, diverse cultural offerings, and exceptional dining. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore hidden gems, local traditions, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that will make your visit all the more memorable.

Local Attractions

When you’re in Bellingham, don’t miss out on the lesser-known but gorgeous scenic spots such as The Greenways Trail, which is just over a mile and meanders through gorgeous gardens, parks, stunning views of Puget Sound, and over a picturesque pedestrian bridge. Also, explore Whatcom Falls Park and Larrabee State Park, where you can enjoy picturesque waterfalls, picnic with your family, and hike through the scenic Pacific Northwest forest.

Dining Spots

It’s safe to say that Bellingham’s food scene is thriving, and there’s an endless number of delicious cuisine options. Satisfy your appetite with a pan-Asian meal at Soi, an unassuming gem perfect for meat lovers and vegans alike. Or, if you are looking for something a little more upscale with great views, enjoy Fino – which delicately balances its cozy atmosphere and thoughtfully crafted menus—highlighting locally sourced ingredients and premium seafood.

Cultural Experiences

Bellingham is a city full of diverse cultural offerings, and its annual events reflect this. Don’t miss the annual Northwest Washington Fair, a pagan-inspired summer solstice celebration complete with live music, food vendors, and arts and crafts activities. Or, experience the Historical Fairhaven Festival, complete with a street fair and a parade, perfect for the entire family.

Local History

Bellingham is a city with a rich and fascinating history. One unique story from its past features the historic Fairhaven district, which originally started as its own independent town. It was a hotbed of political activity and was even the site of the first American Eugenics Society meeting in 1914. Today, Fairhaven is a charming district filled with local shops, cafes, and galleries.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a truly unforgettable experience, venture off the beaten path and explore Bellingham’s incredible natural offerings. Rent a kayak from Kayak Bus and paddle around the San Juan Islands, where you can spot orcas, sea lions, and otters frolicking in their natural habitat. Or hike to the top of Mount Baker, the highest peak in the North Cascades, and enjoy the view of glaciated vistas, pristine alpine lakes and, if you’re lucky, the elusive Aurora Borealis.

Now that you have a taste of what Bellingham has to offer, we hope you’ll visit and experience the local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, unique history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions we’ve outlined. We promise that your trip will be nothing short of unforgettable!