Wollochet.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Wollochet, WA. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Wollochet
- Top Community Pick: Covington Community Park (~23.0 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 4 at Burroughs Mountain
- Local Experts: Tacoma Astronomical Society
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
If you’re looking to escape the light pollution of Wollochet, you’re in luck. While enthusiasts often gather at Covington Community Park 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. Atmospheric stability in the Wollochet region is often influenced by local topography, which can help settle the air for high-magnification viewing.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Wollochet
For the best results in Wollochet, 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 Wollochet Observers
When visiting Covington Community Park, remember to check if the gates close at sunset or if a night-use permit is required. A medium-aperture telescope is ideal for resolving the rings of Saturn and bright star clusters at this spot. 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.
Covington Community Park
" Dress more warmly than you think necessay. Please be careful walking around after dark. "
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. "
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. "
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
"High Cirrus to North West"
Plummer Peak
Mount Rainier NP
"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."
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.