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Observing Sites

Central Oregon

Central Oregon (Indian Trail Spring) is located in the Ochoco National Forest about an hours drive east of Prineville, Oregon. The roads to the campsite are all paved except for the last three miles which are dirt roads in very good condition. The site is available (free from snow) during the summer months. No potable water is available so you'll need to bring your own for drinking or cooking. Tent camping, trailers or RV's are welcome.

This is also the site of the Oregon Star Party (OSP). During the OSP, portable toilets, sinks and even a hot shower facility are available. Visit their website for details.

Availability: June through September

Lat/Long: 44.3N 120.15W

Elevation: 5,000 Feet

Printable map and directions to OSP

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Oregon Star Party 1

Oregon Star Party 2

Oregon Star Party 3

Exit 45

Exit 45 is located just west of Snoqualimie Pass and north of I -90, across the freeway from the Bandera Airfield. This a large parking area for a trailhead that will accommodate 10 to 15 cars. The view to the north is obscured my a high bluff but the view south is quite good. The bluff and surrounding trees offer good wind protection.

From eastbound I-90 take Exit 45. Make a left turn and proceed under I-90. The road (FS 9030) turns back to the left (west) and parallels I-90. After a short distance the road changes from pavement to dirt/gravel. After approximately a half a mile, FS 9030 turns to the right but you should go straight (west) on FS 9031. After about 4 miles the road dead-ends at the trailhead. No water is available.

Availability: Early June through late September (snowed in during the winter)

Lat/Long: 47.25N 121.34W

Elevation: 2,227 Feet

Printable map and directions to Exit 45

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Exit 45 - Aerial view 1

Exit 45 - Aerial view 2

Exit 45 - Aerial view 3

Peoh Point

Peoh Point is the primary BEAS dark sky observing site located a few miles south of Cle Elum, Washington. Located on public land, the site is only open during the summer months when it is free from snow. It's takes about two hours to drive from Seattle to the site. Once you leave Cle Elum, there's approximately 10 miles of good hard packed dirt road and about 1/4 mile of slow difficult road to traverse. Most cars and all trucks or SUV's should have no problem reaching the site.

The site has parking for 20 cars and offers a wide unobstructed view to the south. The skies are quite dark but some very minor skyglow from Yakima is noticeable to the south. This is a very good site for astrophotography.

Camping is permitted but no open fires should be made. Camp stoves are OK. Due to the altitude, near freezing temperatures and light cold winds can occur. Sun (UV) protection is recommended during the day. Bring your own water for drinking and cooking.

Availability: Early June through late September (snowed in during the winter)

Lat/Long: 47.14N 120.94W

Elevation: 4,200 Feet

Printable map and directions to Peoh Point

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Peoh Point - Looking South

Peoh Point - Campsite

Table Mountain

Table Mountain is located about 20 miles northwest of Ellensburg, Washington. The roadway to Table Mountain is paved to within three miles of the observing area, and is gravel for the remainder of the distance. The paved road is steep and narrow (only one lane, with turn outs for passing) so caution and careful driving is necessary. Use special care if driving an RV, motor-home or pulling a trailer. During hot weather, many vehicles develop vapor lock problems during the steep climb.

Table Mountain is in a primitive but beautiful environment. The remote location and high altitude may present a problem for some. It can be very hot during the day and below freezing at night. Bring clothing for all weather conditions, sun screen, and insect repellent. There is no potable water available so bring what you need for drinking and cooking. The site will accommodate tents, trailers and RV's quite well.

This is also the site of the Table Mountain Star Party (TMSP). TMSP provides camping space, portable toilets and food services. Visit their site for details.

Availability: June through September

Lat/Long: 47.25N 120.58W

Elevation: 6,357 Feet

Printable map and directions to Table Mountain

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