We got lucky. We were passing through Goldendale and took our chances that we could visit this place before heading to our hotel. The night was looking cloudy, so we were the only visitors, which turned out to be great (the guide said there can sometimes be up to 60 visitors at once). The guide gave us a great overview, the clouds ended up breaking up enough to not only see a couple of planets, but deep space objects. He talked to us about some of the satellites and showed us a satellite flare. We ended up spending a couple of hours there and had an unforgettable experience. The tour guide was really knowledgeable, and he let our child move the telescope and rotate the observatory dome. Cool place to visit. This is a state park, so fees apply.
While camping nearby, we went to the Goldendale Observatory. First we went during the daytime, and were met by a very knowledgeable guide who obviously loves to educate! He took us to see the nighttime telescope, and we looked at some windmills in the distance. He then took us to see the telescope with which we were able to look at the sun! Fascinating. He then invited us to come back later to see Saturn, which we (and quite a few others, about 50-60 people) did. It's a treat to know this is here for the public, and we are telling all our friends about this gem in the middle of the wheat fields!
It was quite crowded when we went here (don't forget to have a Discover Pass to park here), but it was a fun and educational trip. We heard bits of the tour, which sounded entertaining and interesting, and got a chance to look in the giant telescope. They also sell cold drinks and a small number of snacks in case you need them. I was surprised you couldn't see more stars, but maybe that was the fault of the super moon.
I went up on the worst possible night to go and thought it would be a waste of time however the guide/administrator took the time to go through everything with me even though I was the only one there. He suggested coming back the next day if the clouds broke and we'd be able to look at the sun. . I couldn't of course, but I'm sure it would have been worthwhile. If you want to see something other than the moon (which would be great too) check the website for moon phases and plan around the new moon. Not sure if the area is really ideal for star gazing without a scope though .. goldendale might be too bright. But what place isn't these days?
The "ranger" is a very knowledgeable astronomer. One great thing about this observatory is that you get to look through the big telescopes. The weather is usually clear in Goldendale so the night sky can be spectacular.
Took a friend not as versed in the skies as I am and it was amazing. I grew up close and had been a lot as a kid but not much since I've been back. The guy is so knowledgeable and passionate it makes it even more fun.
We had the chance to visit the Goldendale Observatory on a night promising the Aurora Borealis. No luck - not dark enough ~ but we were so glad we took the time to visit and purchase a Discovery Pass. We could not believe that is the only admission needed for a place where you can experience so much.Definitely the guides love what they do and eagerly share it with others. Our main guide handled the crowd and questions extremely well. We learned so much and will remember this trip for a long time. Thank you for the experience!!!!!Treat yourself and take the time.
I can't think of enough superlatives to describe the visit my family had a few years ago. I'll never forget the thrill of seeing Saturn IN THE DAYLIGHT! I didn't know that was *possible*. We went back in the evening and for the first time I saw the moon through a telescope. It was so clear I could even see the lunar mountain peaks against the night sky.If you're ever in the area, don't miss this. It's worth any effort you need to make, especially if you have children.PS: I visited long before 2014 but that's the farthest back the list goes.
The observatory is a rare experience in out of the way Goldendale. We went there during the day which is probably not the best time to go. Still, we were able to observe the sun and learned about the sun spots, solar storms and the Northern lights. The guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. I would recommend going there at night when the telescope would be more useful. You do need a state parking pass which is $10 for a day or $30/ year for all state parks.
An observatory that you can see the stars, planets, sun through the telescopes with the help of the park staff that is extremely knowledgeable.