Ellensburg.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Ellensburg, WA. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Ellensburg
- Top Community Pick: Helen McCabe State Park (~5.2 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 6.0 at Burch Mountain
- Local Experts: Central Washington University Astronomy Club
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
Stargazing in Ellensburg is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. While enthusiasts often gather at Helen McCabe State Park for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Burch Mountain provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 6.0. The local landscape of Ellensburg offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Ellensburg
For the best results in Ellensburg, aim for a ‘New Moon’ window. In these dark-sky conditions, the absence of moonlight allows the Milky Way to cast visible shadows.
Expert Tips for Ellensburg Observers
When visiting Helen McCabe State Park, remember to check if the gates close at sunset or if a night-use permit is required. For the best views at this spot, try to observe targets when they are highest in the sky to minimize atmospheric interference. Local enthusiasts often frequent this spot, making it a great place to meet experienced observers. Regardless of your gear, allow 30 minutes for your eyes to fully dark-adapt.
Washington Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Helen McCabe State Park
" 'Dress for COLD and WINDY!!!!!!!!!!' "
E'burg: Fairgrounds
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Jameson Lake
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Snoqualmie Point Park
" Please, no white lights. Any cell phones and flashlights need to be tinted deep red. "
Rattlesnake Mountain Trailhead
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
Burch Mountain
Chelan County
"Partly cloudy at the beginning of the night and gradually became clear later. Humid but no wind."
Burch Mountain
Chelan County
"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Burch Mountain in Chelan County on 5/31/2019. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 20.73 SQM."
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Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.