Seeing Stars: The Coolest WA State Park That You Never Knew Existed (Until Now)
Pictured: Goldendale Observatory State Park © C. Kennedy
High on an Eastern Washington hill, with several huge wind turbines in the distance and a small charming town below, lies the Goldendale Observatory, one of our very own Washington State Parks. This certified “Dark Sky Park” boasts one of the nation's largest public telescopes. You can look through it yourself and see celestial bodies, possibly unlike you ever have before, just by bringing your Discover Pass.
Unsure if you are knowledgeable enough to interpret what you are seeing? Newly appointed Director, Troy Carpenter, will add to your knowledge of the cosmos. The former College Instructor is able to explain the scientific properties of the stars and planets, without making you feel that you should have studied up before coming in. He's an engaging host as he presents an overview of what you can see through the eyes of the telescope. After our discussion on electricity, I found myself driving away thinking about conduits, not the usual fodder for my brain.
I arrived for a daylight experience and was able to see the moon-like glow of Venus and prominences on the Sun's surface. As things shift in the sky, so does what you can see through the lens. Later that night, Carpenter planned to offer a viewing of the Space Station. Who knows what might be visible when you arrive.
Since it is about 3.5 hour drive from Seattle to get to the observatory, I recommend spending some time at the Columbia River beforehand. A replica of Stonehenge; the Maryhill Museum of Art, including over 80 works by Auguste Rodin; and Columbia Hills State Park are a mere 15-25 minutes away. Of special note, you can stop at a viewpoint for the site of the former Celilo Falls. It's a sacred place to many Northwest Tribes and a place you should learn about, if you haven't already.
Click here to visit the Goldendale Observatory State Park web site Entrance Fee: FREE, Discover Pass required for parking, Winter Hours: Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 1-9p.m., Clear Sky Chart
Pictured: Troy Carpenter, Director / Interpretive Specialist with a Solar Telescope (above); the Goldendale Observatory State Park (below); the site of the historical Celilo Falls on the Columbia River (bottom) © C. Kennedy
