Viewing Aurora Borealis in Washington State

Washington State is one of the most beautiful states in the USA, bordered by Oregon, Idaho, and Canada. It is famous for its mountains, forests, lakes, and waterfalls. But did you know that it is also an excellent location to view the stunning Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights? Although this natural phenomenon is more commonly associated with Alaska and Scandinavia, Washington State is also a great place to witness it. In this article, we will explore the best locations in Washington State to view the Aurora Borealis.

What are Aurora Borealis?

The Aurora Borealis is a natural light display that occurs in the polar regions, caused by the collision of charged particles from the sun with the Earth’s atmosphere. As these particles enter the Earth’s atmosphere, they collide with the gases present, such as oxygen and nitrogen, creating a stunning glow of colors, including greens, pinks, purples, and reds. This glowing effect occurs at an altitude of 80-600 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. Although the Northern Lights are visible throughout the year, during the winter months, from October to March, they are more prominent and easier to see.

Best Locations to View Aurora Borealis in Washington State

Washington State offers several great locations to view the Aurora Borealis. Some of the most popular spots are:

Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest:

This national forest is located about two hours from Seattle and offers a perfect getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle. It is an ideal spot to view the Northern Lights as it offers a clear view of the night sky. The forest is also easily accessible, and there are several campgrounds and resorts available in the area.

Olympic National Park:

Olympic National Park is located on the Olympic Peninsula, approximately two hours from Seattle. It offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, mountains, and forests. It is also an excellent location to view the Aurora Borealis as it is far away from the city lights, providing a clear view of the night sky.

Leavenworth:

Leavenworth is a small town located in central Washington, famous for its Bavarian architecture and festivals. It is also an ideal location to view the Northern Lights, especially during the winter months. There are several resorts and lodges available in the area that offer guided tours and excellent viewing spots for Aurora Borealis.

When is the Best Time to View Aurora Borealis in Washington State?

The best time to view the Aurora Borealis in Washington State is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the nights are longer, and the skies are clearer, making it easier to see the Northern Lights. It is also essential to check the weather forecast before planning a trip as cloudy nights can obscure the view of Aurora Borealis.

Tips for Viewing Aurora Borealis in Washington State

Here are some tips to make your Aurora Borealis viewing experience in Washington State unforgettable:

Dress Warmly:

Due to the winter season, the temperatures in Washington State can be quite cold, especially at night. Dress in warm layers and wear insulated boots to keep yourself warm.

Plan Ahead:

It is a good idea to plan your trip ahead of time and scout out the best viewing spots before arriving. As the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, they may not always occur, so it is essential to be in the right location at the right time to have the best chance to view them.

Minimize Light Pollution:

Light pollution from cities and other sources can limit the view of the Northern Lights. Find a location that is far away from any light pollution sources, such as streetlights or buildings, and ensure that your eyes are adjusted to the dark.

Bring a Camera:

Capturing the beauty of Aurora Borealis on camera is an excellent way to remember the experience. Bring a camera with a tripod and a remote shutter release to take long exposure shots of the Northern Lights.

Conclusion

Washington State is a beautiful location to view the stunning Aurora Borealis. With its clear skies and stunning landscapes, it provides an unforgettable opportunity to witness this natural phenomenon. Plan your trip ahead of time, dress warmly, and find the best viewing spots to make the most of your experience. Remember to minimize light pollution, bring a camera, and prepare to be amazed by the incredible Northern Lights display.

An Insider’s Guide to Viewing Aurora Borealis in Washington State

Washington State is an incredible place to witness the magnificent natural phenomenon of Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. But the state’s charms don’t end there. Exploring the hidden gems of the city can be an unforgettable experience. Here’s an insider’s guide to making the most of your visit to Washington State, with unique and fresh perspectives that only locals know.

Local Attractions

While popular attractions like Pike Place market and Space Needle are worth a visit, there are plenty of other hidden gems to discover in the city. For instance, If you want to learn about Seattle’s jazz history, head to the Central District. Here you’ll find one of the oldest and still active jazz clubs, the Royal Room, which attracts some of the most celebrated jazz musicians in the country. For a more peaceful day out, visit Kubota Garden, a stunning Japanese garden made of rolling hills, waterfalls, and ponds. Additionally, if you are a fan of Asian art and culture, the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience is a must-visit. Here you’ll learn about the experiences of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the region.

Dining Spots

Washington state is renowned for its seafood, but there’s plenty more to explore for foodies out there. If you are looking for some authentic Thai food, head to Thai Tom in Seattle’s University District. The restaurant is tiny and always busy, but it’s worth the wait for their famous noodles and curries. For a late-night bite, don’t miss Dick’s Drive-In, a local burger chain with a cult following. The burgers are simple yet delicious, with special sauce made from a secret recipe.

Cultural Experiences

To get a better understanding of the city’s diverse culture, visit the Museum of Pop Culture, formerly known as the Experience Music Project. Here you’ll not only learn about the history of music in Seattle but also about influential figures like Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana, who shaped the music scene of the region. Another fun cultural experience is the Seattle International Film Festival, one of the largest film festivals in North America. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in indie film culture and to discover emerging talents from the international film community.

Local History

When it comes to history, the Seattle Underground Tour is an excellent place to start. The tour takes you through the original downtown storefronts and sidewalks that were abandoned after the Great Seattle Fire of 1889. The tour guide will take you down the underground passages, which were once the city’s main streets, now hidden beneath the modern-day city. Another fascinating slice of history can be found at the Museum of Flight, where you can learn about the aerospace industry and the region’s connection to airplane manufacturers like Boeing.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

For a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the Fremont Troll, a ferocious sculpture that lives under the Aurora Bridge, which has become one of Seattle’s most famous landmarks. The troll might be a little scary at first, but it’s a whimsical piece of public art that’s entirely worth visiting. Another quirky experience is seeing the famous Gum Wall, which walls a narrow alley covered in layers of chewing gum. It might sound gross, but it’s a fascinating piece of Seattle’s quirky culture that you can’t miss.

Washington State is full of hidden gems and unique experiences that can only be discovered by insiders. By looking beyond the conventional tourist spots and discovering the region’s history, culture, and incredible food, you’ll fall in love with the city in more ways than one. Don’t forget to look up to the skies and enjoy the magnificent Aurora Borealis, which makes this part of the world truly magical.