Yreka.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Yreka, CA. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Yreka
- Top Community Pick: local vantage points (~N/A miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 3.0 at Golddigger
- Local Experts: Southern Oregon Skywatchers
- Verified Observations: 0 distinct spots
Searching for a clear window into the cosmos near Yreka, CA? While enthusiasts often gather at local vantage points for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Golddigger provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 3.0. Atmospheric stability in the Yreka region is often influenced by local topography, which can help settle the air for high-magnification viewing.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Yreka
For the best results in Yreka, 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 Yreka Observers
Before heading out to local vantage points, we recommend arriving during civil twilight to scout the terrain safely. A medium-aperture telescope is ideal for resolving the rings of Saturn and bright star clusters the site. 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.
California Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
Golddigger
Lava Beds NM
"Site on a bluff of lava, short walk from dirt road. Seeing good, transparency fair but improving as clouds dissapear, 25% first set, 5% along horizon 3rd set. Airglow low, very dark sky background. Klamath falls light dome to 15 degrees, glare of Tulelake causes unnatural land illumination on ridge tops, zlm 7.3 fairly easily, 7.6 glimpsed. Faint but large light dome west of Klamath falls near Mount Dome, Dorris?, very faint city to south east, maybe Alturas, early light bouced off clouds from city south of Mt. Shasta, quite faint. Bortle 3 mainly because of Tulelake. SQM 21.65 during 3rd set."
Golddigger
Lava Beds NM
"The extinction coefficient reflects a slight haze that lingered from nearby fires (and also from farmers burning fields during the day). This effect was barely visually apparent and did not produce any noticeable layering. Otherwise the night was clear and steady. SQM 21.36. Some detail visible in Milky Way (contrast between dark and light areas). Light dome of Klamath Falls brightest and obvious on the landscape. Lights in Tulelake visible directly although at a distance."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve
Nestled in the heart of the Siskiyou Mountains, Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve is located in southern Oregon, United States, and provides a gateway…
Oregon Outback
Eastern Lake County (Phase 1 of the proposed Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary) is located in a remote and sparsely populated area of southeastern…
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.