Sultan.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Sultan, WA. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Sultan
- Top Community Pick: Big Rock Park (~12.2 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 Sultan, 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. The local landscape of Sultan offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Sultan
For the best results in Sultan, 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 Sultan 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 this location 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. "
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. "
Paramount School Park
" 'Dress warmly. Redlight flashlights only. "
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.
Diablo Dam Overlook
North Cascades NP
"Diablo Lake Overlook, set up at the overlook handrail. Beautiful sky, despite direct glare from unshielded lights on Diablo Dam. These are bright enough to affect night vision, but amber in color. Near the Zenith the sky is pristine, and this location would make an excellent place for public astronomy programs, just need to strategically put trees to shield dam lights and the headlights from cars on the highway. Illuminance measures taken with ND filter of the dam lights. Two full sets of night sky data taken despite horizon obstructions from mountain peaks. Difficult to rate as to Bortle class because of the obstructions, but nearly Class 2; traces of a light dome to the west seen at low points in the horizon. Airglow bright again, ZLM 7.1. Transparency good, seeing 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.