Mead.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Mead, WA. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Mead
- Top Community Pick: Camp Four Echoes (~33.0 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 6.0 at Burch Mountain
- Local Experts: Spokane Astronomical Society
- Verified Observations: 3 distinct spots
Stargazing in Mead is surprisingly rewarding if you know exactly where to set up your tripod. While enthusiasts often gather at Camp Four Echoes 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. Atmospheric stability in the Mead region is often influenced by local topography, which can help settle the air for high-magnification viewing.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Mead
For the best results in Mead, 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 Mead Observers
Before heading out to Camp Four Echoes, 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.
Washington Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Camp Four Echoes
" Bring a red-light flashlight, or wrap red cellophane around the front of a white-light flashlight.' "
Bigelow Gulch/Party Palace venue
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Spokane: GSEWNI
" 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."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge
The Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge is located in Pleasant Valley, nestled in the Salish Mountains of northwestern Montana, United States.
Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park
Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada, and Glacier National Park in Montana, U.S., are collectively the first IDA International Dark Sky Parks…
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.