- Located on a hilltop above Goldendale, Washington, the Goldendale Observatory is just north of the Columbia River Gorge via Highway 97.
- Public viewing sessions allow visitors to observe and explore the cosmos through various telescopes.
- Summer and winter hours vary; call (509) 773-3141 for information.
Overview
Whether you’re an amateur stargazer or an experienced astronomer, the Goldendale Observatory State Park has something for you. This public stargazing facility has formed a center for learning and exploring the heavens since 1973. A number of telescopes, including a huge 24.5-inch scope, provide visitors with the means to discover and explore the skies. A knowledgeable docent supervises the facility; he gives a brief talk before each public viewing session and is available to field questions.
Location & Information
Goldendale Observatory State Park
1602 Observatory Drive
Goldendale, WA 98620
(509) 773-3141
Reach the Goldendale Observatory from Hood River by taking I-84 East to Biggs and crossing the Biggs Bridge via Hwy 97 into Washington; travel north to Goldendale. At the Goldendale Observatory sign take the first exit right into Goldendale (Broadway); go 1 mile to the four-way stop, turn right, go north 0.7 mile to a fork in the road. Take the right fork; continue 0.7 mile up the hill to the Observatory parking lot.
Activities
The primary activity to experience at Goldendale Observatory is viewing the cosmos through multiple telescopes.
- Summer Program: Summer hours are April 1 – September 30, Weds – Sun, 2:00-5:00 pm (solar viewing) and 8:00-midnight (nighttime celestial objects viewing).
- Winter Program: Winter hours are October – March, Fri – Sun, 2:00-5:00 pm and 7:00-10:00 pm.
- Interpretive presentations are given prior to each viewing session.
- A library on-site offers the chance to study astronomy.
