When Can You See the Northern Lights in Washington State 2021?

Washington State is known for its natural beauty and picturesque landscapes, attracting visitors from all over the world. One of the most beautiful natural phenomena in Washington is the Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis. The Northern Lights are a spectacular display of nature, and if you’re planning to witness this beautiful sight in Washington, it’s important to know when and where to go. In this post, we’ll answer the question, “When can you see the Northern Lights in Washington State in 2021?”

What are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a beautiful natural light display that occurs in the Northern Hemisphere. It’s a natural occurrence that happens when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere. The particles are drawn by the magnetic field of the Earth towards the poles and collide with gases in the atmosphere. The interaction of these particles with the gases in the atmosphere produces an exciting release of colors – green, pink, yellow, and blue lights.

Where to See the Northern Lights in Washington State?

Washington State is an excellent destination to witness the Northern Lights as it provides you with the chance to see the spectacular lights while enjoying its natural beauty. Some of the best places to witness the Northern Lights in Washington are:

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is an excellent place to see the Northern Lights in Washington State. The park is situated far from the city, allowing you to enjoy the dark sky and an unobstructed view of the Northern Lights. The park’s location at a high elevation, surrounded by mountains, and with little light pollution, makes it an ideal spot to witness this natural wonder.

Mount Baker Highway

The Mount Baker Highway takes you through the beautiful Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and leads you to a gateway to the Northern Lights. The area has dark skies, and the highway is surrounded by beautiful snow-covered mountains, making it an ideal location to view the Northern Lights.

Rattlesnake Mountain

Rattlesnake Mountain is located in Benton County and serves as an ideal location to watch the Northern Lights. The peak stands tall at 3,500 feet, providing picturesque views of the skyline from all sides.

When to See the Northern Lights in Washington State in 2021?

The Northern Lights are a natural occurrence that can be difficult to predict. It’s important to check local alerts, weather forecasts, and solar activity predictions and plan your trip accordingly. Generally speaking, the Northern Lights are visible during the winter months, specifically during December, January, and February.

If you’re planning to view the Northern Lights in Washington State, you need to keep in mind the following factors:

Solar Activity

The intensity of the Northern Lights depends on the level of solar activity. The more active the sun is, the greater the chance of seeing Aurora Borealis. The Northern Lights are known to be more frequent when the sun enters its solar maximum cycle.

Weathers Conditions

Clear and dark skies with minimal light pollution are ideal conditions for viewing the Northern Lights. Washington State may experience cloudy or rainy conditions, so it’s important to check weather forecasts and plan your visit accordingly.

Moon Phases

The Northern Lights are best seen when the moon is in its new phase. The darker the skies, the brighter the Northern Lights will appear; hence, it is essential to check for the moon’s phase before planning your trip.

Conclusion

The Northern Lights are a beautiful natural phenomenon that shouldn’t be missed. Washington State provides the perfect destination to view this amazing light show in winter. Plan your visit by considering the factors mentioned above and choosing from the best locations such as Olympic National Park, Mount Baker Highway, and Rattlesnake Mountain. Keep in mind the solar activity, weather conditions, and moon phases when planning your trip. Whether planning a Northern Lights-specific trip or wanting to combine it with other winter activities, Washington State is sure to provide the perfect backdrop to witness this spectacular phenomena.

An Insider’s Guide to Bellingham, Washington

If you’re planning a trip to Washington state, Bellingham should definitely be on your list of cities to visit. This charming coastal city, located just south of the Canadian border, has so much to offer its visitors. Here’s an insider’s guide to help you explore beyond the typical tourist attractions.

Local Attractions

While there are some well-known tourist spots in Bellingham, such as the Whatcom Museum and Mount Baker Theatre, there are also some hidden gems that only locals know about. For example, the Squalicum Harbor is a great place to watch the sunset over the water or enjoy a walk on the boardwalk. The Fairhaven Historic District is also worth a visit, with its quaint shops and charming architecture. Don’t miss out on the Saturday Farmer’s Market, which features local produce, crafts, and live music.

Dining Spots

Bellingham is known for its fresh seafood and farm-to-table cuisine. The Chuckanut Brewery & Kitchen is a must-visit, offering delicious food and locally brewed beer. For a more upscale dining experience, try the Skylark’s Hidden Cafe, located in a historic building with a stunning garden patio. If you’re a coffee lover, don’t miss out on Woods Coffee, a local chain with cozy locations throughout the city.

Cultural Experiences

Bellingham is a hub for artists and musicians, with several festivals and events throughout the year. The Bellingham Festival of Music and the Dirty Dan Harris Festival are both popular summer events. The City of Subdued Excitement, as it’s affectionately called, is also home to several art galleries and theaters, such as the Whatcom Symphony Orchestra and the iDiOM Theater.

Local History

Bellingham’s history is rich and diverse, with the Nooksack Tribe and Lummi Nation having lived in the area for centuries before European settlers arrived. One interesting historical spot to visit is the Whatcom Falls Park, which was the site of a salmon cannery in the early 20th century. You can even still see the remnants of the old power plant.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique experience in Bellingham, consider taking a whale watching tour with San Juan Cruises or heading out to Lummi Island for some kayaking or hiking. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try cliff jumping at Lake Whatcom. If you’re visiting in the winter months, keep an eye out for the Northern Lights, which can sometimes be seen from Bellingham.

Bellingham may not be as well-known as some of Washington state’s other cities, but it’s certainly worth a visit for its beautiful scenery, rich culture, and charming atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to get off the beaten path or explore the city’s well-known attractions, there’s something for everyone in Bellingham.