When Can You See the Northern Lights in Washington State 2022?

The beautiful and mesmerizing Aurora Borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights, is a natural phenomenon that occurs in the polar regions. It’s an incredible sight to witness and attracts tourists from all over the world. Many people believe that the Northern Lights can only be seen in Alaska or Norway, but that’s not entirely true. Several places in the United States, like Washington State, offer a chance to see the Northern Lights.

In this blog post, we will discuss when and where you can experience the Northern Lights in Washington State in 2022, its causes and best time to catch this beautiful light show.

What are the Northern Lights?

Before we dive into the specifics of the Northern Lights, let’s discuss what it is and how it’s formed. Aurora Borealis occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere. When these particles hit the atmosphere, they excite the atoms and molecules, which then release energy in the form of light. This reaction creates beautiful patterns of light that we know as the Northern Lights.

When can you see the Northern Lights in Washington State 2022?

Washington State is relatively closer to the magnetic pole than other states in the US, which means that you have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights here. However, it is essential to keep in mind that the Northern Lights are unpredictable, and several factors affect their visibility, such as solar activity, weather conditions, and light pollution.

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Washington State is during the winter months from October to March. During this time, the nights are longer, darker, and the skies are clear. Additionally, the solar activity is higher during the winter months, increasing your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

The Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Washington State

The Northern Lights can be seen anywhere in Washington State, provided you have a clear view of the northern sky. However, some areas are more conducive to seeing the Aurora due to their proximity to the magnetic pole and lower light pollution.

Here are some of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Washington State:

1. North Cascades National Park

Located in the northern part of Washington State, the North Cascades National Park is an excellent place for stargazing and catching the Northern Lights. The park has little light pollution and is surrounded by mountains and glaciers, offering stunning views of the aurora.

2. Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

The Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is another great place to see the Northern Lights in Washington State. The area has low light pollution and is located far away from the city, making it an ideal spot for watching the aurora. The forest also has several campgrounds where you can camp out and wait for the lights to appear.

3. Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is located in the western part of Washington State and is known for its diverse landscape and wildlife. It is also a great place to see the Northern Lights, with little light pollution and clear skies. The park has several scenic viewpoints that offer a clear view of the Northern Lights.

Conclusion

The Northern Lights are a rare natural phenomenon that everyone should witness at least once in their lifetime. While Washington State may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about the Northern Lights, it’s a great place to experience them.

To catch the Northern Lights in Washington State, you’ll need to head out during the winter months, where the skies are darker and clearer. Remember to find a spot with low light pollution and a clear view of the northern sky.

Washington State has several places where you can see the Northern Lights, but the North Cascades National Park, Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, and Olympic National Park are some of the best places to experience this beautiful light show.

Insider’s Guide to Seeing Northern Lights in Washington State 2022

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems in the City

When in Washington State to witness the beautiful Northern Lights, there are other attractions besides the natural wonder that you should consider visiting. If you’re looking for something unique, visit the Olympic Sculpture Park in downtown Seattle. With a stunning view of the Puget Sound, the park contains massive sculptures that can awe any visitor. For those looking for a more peaceful outdoor experience, explore the Japanese Garden in Seattle’s Washington Park Arboretum. A tranquil blend of nature and art, the garden features a beautiful assortment of bonsai, maple trees, and stone lanterns.

Another underrated location to uncover in Washington State is the Columbia River Gorge. Aptly named, the gorge is a river spectacular overflowing with magnificent waterfalls. The falls are breathtakingly beautiful and range from small to colossal. Be sure to marvel at the largest of them all: Multnomah Falls.

Dining Spots: Discover the Local Cuisine

The Pacific Northwest is known for its excellent cuisine, and most tourists stick to popular spots. However, if you are looking for a new culinary experience, try Pike Place Market’s six-level Sur La Table cooking school in Seattle. The classes provide a hands-on experience with Pacific Northwest ingredients, and you can enjoy delicious food after the cookery.

You can also explore the history of a city through its food. In Tacoma, visit The Spar, Washington’s oldest saloon, which serves delicious Pacific Northwest seafood dishes. Another well-known establishment is Ivar’s, a famous seafood restaurant in Seattle with over 75 years of experience in serving the best fish and chips around.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions and Festivals

When it comes to cultural experiences in Washington State, venture out to the Tacoma Art Museum. It is an intimate museum that displays a wonderful collection of Northwest art, including an extensive selection of glass art. If you happen to visit on the third Thursday of the month, you can enjoy free admission.

If you’re looking for something more localized and intimate, explore the Washington State Fair in Puyallup, which takes place every September. With everything from creative arts and agriculture to rides and carnival games, you’ll find a cross-section of Washington State’s unique subcultures at the fair.

Local History: Captivating Stories

Washington State is rich in history that is worth discovering. Pioneer Square in Seattle is a great place to start. The area is known for its narrow alleys and unchanged brick buildings, and it is where Seattle began. The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park also affords a glimpse into the history of the gold rush era, and visitors can see authentic hardware, clothing, and personal items from the period.

Another fascinating attraction worth visiting is the LeMay Family Collection in Washington, the largest privately held collection of cars, trucks, and motorcycles in the world. The facility features over 2,500 vehicles and other classic automobiles on display, dating back to the early 1900s.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Memorable and Unique Experiences

For a quirky and unusual experience, visit the Fremont Troll in Seattle. The gigantic sculpture, which has become a local landmark, was created by four artists who fashioned a troll under a bridge with a Volkswagen Beetle in its left hand. Also, for a magical experience, visit the Brightwater Center in Woodinville, as it is a breathtaking wetlands sanctuary with a plethora of wildlife.

In conclusion, Washington State has a lot to offer, and exploring something new makes the trip all the more memorable. The above recommendations are excellent places to start and witness unforgettable northern lights in Washington State in 2022!