One of the year’s best celestial events is coming up soon. Mark your calendar for August 12-13, when the Perseids meteor shower will reach its peak. If you’re excited to view this astronomical phenomenon, your best bet is to escape the bright city lights—and we have some suggestions of where to go.
The Perseids, active from mid-July through August, occur each year as Earth passes through the dusty debris left behind by Comet Swift-Tuttle. Under dark skies, viewers can spot dozens of meteors streaking across the sky every hour during the peak.
One of the most popular destinations is the high-elevation overlooks along Highway 20 in the North Cascades. Scenic viewpoints like Diablo Lake and Washington Pass stay open overnight and offer restrooms, making them ideal for a late-night meteor-watching adventure. Located about three hours from Seattle, these overlooks are known among local stargazers as some of Washington’s best dark-sky viewing spots since they’re so far from major light pollution.
Want to turn the meteor shower into a weekend getaway? If campsites inside North Cascades National Park are booked, Goodell Creek Campground offers first-come, first-served camping. Another excellent option is Olympic National Park, less than three hours from Seattle. You can camp overnight near Hurricane Ridge in the Heart o’ the Hills Campground, which is also a first-come, first-served campsite.
The Perseids aren’t the only reason to keep looking up. On a clear August night, you may also catch the International Space Station gliding overhead, and if conditions cooperate, even a surprise appearance from the aurora borealis.
Can’t make the drive out of Seattle? While city lights will reduce the number of visible meteors, Seattle still has a few darker spots for sky watching. Lincoln Park in West Seattle and Green Lake can offer decent views. Just be sure to respect posted park hours and bring a blanket, warm layers, and plenty of patience as you wait for nature’s light show.
