Lincoln City.

The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Lincoln City, OR. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.

Bortle Scale
4
Best Regional Reading
Sky Quality
21.28
SQM Zenith Value
Verified Sites
0
Community Vetted
Dark Sky Parks
2
IDA Certified Nearby

Quick Guide for Lincoln City

  • Top Community Pick: local vantage points (~N/A miles)
  • Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4 at Burroughs Mountain
  • Local Experts: Nightsky-45
  • Verified Observations: 0 distinct spots

Searching for a clear window into the cosmos near Lincoln City, OR? While enthusiasts often gather at local vantage points for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Burroughs Mountain provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 4. The transition between the urban infrastructure of Lincoln City and the more rural stretches of OR creates several ‘dark sky’ corridors.

The Best Times for Stargazing in Lincoln City

For the best results in Lincoln City, 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 Lincoln City 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 at this spot 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.

Scientific Audit

NPS Sky Measurements

Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.

Burroughs Mountain

Mount Rainier NP

21.28 SQM
Bortle Class 4

"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Burroughs Mountain in Mount Rainier NP on 8/13/2007. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 21.28 SQM."

Observation Date
8/13/2007
Elevation
1938m
Zenith Brightness
21.27

Plummer Peak

Mount Rainier NP

21.09 SQM
Bortle Class 4

"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Plummer Peak in Mount Rainier NP on 9/23/2005. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 21.09 SQM."

Observation Date
9/23/2005
Elevation
1940m
Zenith Brightness
20.98

International Dark Sky Parks

Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.

IDA Certified Distance: 129.8 miles

Sisters, Oregon

Sisters, Oregon, is located in the heart of central Oregon within Deschutes County, approximately 200 miles southeast of Portland and just 20 miles…

Category
International Dark Sky Community
Certified
2025
Land Area
4.96 sq km
Coordinates
44.2909, -121.5493
IDA Certified Distance: 160.7 miles

Antelope, Oregon

Located in the upper Antelope Valley of north-central Oregon, the city of Antelope lies along an ancient route connecting the John Day watershed to the Great…

Category
International Dark Sky Community
Certified
2024
Land Area
1.19 Sq. Km
Coordinates
44.9105, -120.7227

Local Astronomy Clubs

Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.

NASA Night Sky Club ID
#531

Nightsky-45

Salem, OR

NASA Night Sky Club ID
#381

Rose City Astronomers

Portland, OR