This unique state park houses one of the largest public telescopes in the country. With day and night programs, the observatory hosts visitors and gives them a rare glimpse of the skies.
The park takes up 5 acres in the town of Goldendale, set high above the Columbia River valley. Visitors can come to learn in the visitor center, though the state parks property doesn't have any trails. To attend the programs or visit the facility at Goldendale, visitors need free reservations. Make them here.
One of the most fascinating parts of this complex is the history of how it came to be. The telescope was built by four amateur astronomers in the 1960s. It ha since been replaced (as on 2018), and is managed by Washington State Parks for public use.
Goldendale Observatory State Park
45.8390,
-120.8155
Map & Directions
-
Length
- 0.1 miles, roundtrip
This unique state park houses one of the largest public observatories in the nation. Visitors can peer through the lens of this telescope to view solar shows and magical glimpses of the night sky.
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Hiking Goldendale Observatory State Park
Goldendale Observatory State Park
Map & Directions
Trailhead
Before You Go
Parking Pass/Entry Fee
Discover PassWTA Pro Tip: Save a copy of our directions before you leave! App-based driving directions aren't always accurate and data connections may be unreliable as you drive to the trailhead.
Getting There
From Yakima, take I-82 E for 4.4 miles, then take exit 37 for US-97 toward Goldendale. Stay on US-97 for 15 miles, then turn right to stay on US-97 for another 48.2 miles. Turn right onto E Broadway St for 1.0 mile, then turn right onto N Columbus Ave. for 0.6 mile, then a slight right onto Observatory Drive, which will end at the parking area.
Note that the Observatory is near private property. Please respect parking and driveways nearby and do not obstruct private roads when visiting.
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