Best Places in the Pacific Northwest to See (and Photograph) the Milky Way
The Pacific Northwest is one of the most breathtaking regions in the United States for stargazing. From rugged coastlines to alpine peaks, its combination of low light pollution and dramatic landscapes makes it a dream for Milky Way photography.
Whether you’re an experienced astrophotographer or simply want to witness the galaxy in all its glory, these locations offer incredible views and the chance to capture the night sky at its best.
1. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Few places rival Mount Rainier’s commanding presence under the Milky Way. The park’s high elevation, reflective alpine lakes, and clear summer skies make it ideal for nightscape photography.
Head to Sunrise or Tipsoo Lake between June and August for the best alignment of the galactic core above the mountain’s peak.
Pro Tip: Visit during a new moon and bring a wide-angle lens for the best exposure balance between the foreground and the stars.
2. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Crater Lake’s deep blue waters become a mirror for the cosmos at night. With almost no nearby city lights, it’s a true dark-sky paradise.
Photographers often gather at Watchman Overlook or Discovery Point to capture the Milky Way arching over Wizard Island.
Why it stands out: The calm surface of the lake perfectly reflects the stars, creating surreal symmetry in long exposures.
3. Olympic National Park, Washington
From the wild beaches of Rialto and Ruby to the mossy forests of the Hoh Rain Forest, Olympic National Park offers one of the most diverse backdrops for astrophotography in the Pacific Northwest.
Coastal fog can be unpredictable, but when the skies clear, the Milky Way over sea stacks and tide pools is nothing short of magical.
Pro Tip: Check cloud forecasts before heading out, and stay past midnight for the best galactic alignment over the Pacific.
4. Sparks Lake, Oregon
Located just outside Bend, Sparks Lake offers serene reflections of the Three Sisters mountains and a perfect vantage point for photographing the Milky Way as it rises behind South Sister.
Why photographers love it: The lake’s shallow waters create leading lines and reflections that enhance the sense of depth in your shots.
5. Palouse Falls State Park, Washington
For those seeking a more dramatic composition, Palouse Falls provides an incredible mix of canyon cliffs and cascading water beneath the Milky Way’s sweep.
This location combines geological wonder with celestial motion, perfect for long-exposure astrophotography or light painting.
Best time to visit: Late spring to early summer, when the falls are at full strength and skies are clear.
Pacific Northwest Stargazing Guide: Best Spots to Capture the Milky Way
The Pacific Northwest offers some of the most awe-inspiring locations in the world to experience and photograph the Milky Way. From the volcanic peaks of Mount Rainier to the still waters of Crater Lake, each destination reveals a different way to connect with the cosmos. Whether you’re capturing your own images or admiring the stars from afar, these nightscapes remind us just how vast and beautiful our universe is.