Stargazing is a pastime that has been made impossible for most people by the massive amounts of light pollution in our cities. This doesn’t mean that the stars are now inaccessible, it just means that the places where you still can see them have become even more magical! Mount Baker is one of these places, with a location far enough from the nearby major towns to allow you to enjoy the amazing natural light show that nature has to offer. Here are some of the best places to do just that!
Situated at the end of Mount Baker Highway, Artist Point provides stunning panoramic views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. During the summer and early autumn months, this area becomes a prime location for stargazing. The expansive, unobstructed skies allow for clear views of constellations, planets, and meteor showers. And the best part is that all of its excellent vantage points are only a short walk from the parking lot, making it accessible to everyone from the most hard core, to the most casual!
Located on the southern slopes of Mount Baker, the Park Butte Lookout is an amazing and historic fire lookout that serves as a fantastic stargazing spot. Accessible via the lovely pacific northwest trail, the lookout offers panoramic views and is open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. The combination of high elevation and clear skies makes it an ideal location for night sky photography and observations.
If you’re looking for an even more remote stargazing location near Mount Baker, Heliotrope Ridge might just be your best option. The trailhead for this hike is located a ways off from the Mount Baker Highway, and the hike itself is quite short with some intersections with Grouse Creek, and a moderate level of difficulty. Located right at the base of the mountain, Heliotrope Ridge offers more than just a great view of the stars, it offers a stunning view of Mount Baker too. As one of the quieter spots in the area, it’s perfect for those who want a peaceful stargazing experience far away from crowds. Because of its seclusion and low light pollution, you can expect magnificent views of the night sky, especially during summer months.
The Mount Baker Area
The entire Mount Baker Wilderness Area is an excellent stargazing destination. Due to its vast and rugged terrain, and low population, the region experiences minimal light pollution, making it a great place to catch sight of meteor showers, the Milky Way, and distant astral bodies of all kinds. There are numerous hiking trails that lead to high points with expansive views of the night sky. Many of these hikes are challenging and require proper preparation, but the reward of stargazing at higher altitudes in such an awe-inspiring location makes the effort worthwhile. Or, there are many places where you can simply park your car and spend some time enjoying nature’s brilliance.
No matter where you go, Mount Baker’s rural location means that the whole of the night sky will stretch out before you. So whether you prefer to enjoy the stars from the window of your warm cabin, or from the peak of a snow capped mountain, Mount Baker has the place for you!