Ketchikan.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Ketchikan, AK. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Ketchikan
- Top Community Pick: local vantage points (~N/A miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 5.0 at Sitka Cross Trail
- Local Experts: Whatcom Association of Celestial Observers
- Verified Observations: 0 distinct spots
Stargazing in Ketchikan is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. While enthusiasts often gather at local vantage points for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Sitka Cross Trail provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 5.0. The transition between the urban infrastructure of Ketchikan and the more rural stretches of AK creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Ketchikan
Since Ketchikan sits in a transitional light zone, viewing is best during the New Moon or after midnight when some commercial lighting is reduced.
Expert Tips for Ketchikan Observers
Before heading out to local vantage points, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. Binoculars are a favorite for regulars here for sweeping views of the Moon’s craters and larger constellations. 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.
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
Sitka Cross Trail
Sitka NHP
"Set up camera system in the frozen muskeg along the Sitka Cross Trail. A nice open locatiaon with no direct glare and a good panorama of the Sitka light dome. Sky glow from Sitka was fairly bright and, along with the heavy moist air, night sky observations were moderately impacted. The Milky Way was barely visible to the naked eye and the light dome from Sitka appeared to rise to at least 30 degrees above the horizon with a width of 90 degrees or so. Even with this local brightening of the sky this is a fairly nice location to experience the nighttime environment free from the direct glare and light trespass found throughout the community. Heavy frost was present almost immediately after astronomical twilight."
Park entrance sign
Glacier Bay NP&P
"Set up 100' off road from the Park entrance sign in a clearing of small trees in the muskeg. Perfectly clear night but aurora was readily visble at end of astronomical twilight to the north and northeast. No visible light domes from either Gustavus or the more distant Juneau. The Milky Way was easily visble overhead but faded into the brightening aurora to the north. Daytime visibility was 100 miles + while flying in to Gustavus earlier in the afternoon. Was able to see 12 stars in the Pleadies naked eye. Stars visible to the horizon in all areas except where the aurora was present. Frost was quick to coat all of the equipment. SQM reading of 21.63."
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Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.