Monroe.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Monroe, WA. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Monroe
- Top Community Pick: Big Rock Park (~8.1 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 3.0 at Hidden Peak Ridge
- Local Experts: Everett Astronomical Society
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
If you’re looking to escape the light pollution of Monroe, you’re in luck. While enthusiasts often gather at Big Rock Park for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Hidden Peak Ridge provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 3.0. Atmospheric stability in the Monroe region is often influenced by local topography, which can help settle the air for high-magnification viewing.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Monroe
For the best results in Monroe, 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 Monroe Observers
When visiting Big Rock Park, remember to check if the gates close at sunset or if a night-use permit is required. Binoculars are a favorite for regulars the site 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.
Big Rock Park
" Park in the lower lot near the street. If that lot is full please park in the lot as far from the middle field as you can with your headlights facing away from the fields. "
Paramount School Park
" 'Dress warmly. Redlight flashlights only. "
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. "
Covington Community Park
" Dress more warmly than you think necessay. Please be careful walking around after dark. "
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
Redoubt - American Camp
San Juan Island NHP
"Light domes all around, Victoria brightest and largest. Class 4. Hazy, fog to the south, high humidity, seeing very good, transparency fair. Sky at 30 degrees altitude and lower much poorer than other parts, airglow cannot be discerned because of light domes and haze. No Zodiacal light, even in AM. Evening hours better, Cygnus milky way at Zenith well displayed but later the entire band looks washed out. Dark adaptation difficult. Port Angeles and Port Townsend visible in early evening, lost in fog late. Puget Sound light dome subdued, Victoria light dome bright but cut off vertically to the south, presumably because of fog. Data sets 1-3 OK, 4th has problem with wire pulling out of camera, no good. 5th incomplete and no good."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
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Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.